How to find authentic food in Český Krumlov

The secret to finding great food is leaving the UNESCO zone. Many visitors never leave the historic center. However, the best value is often just across the river. Look for boards listing the "denní menu" or daily specials. These are usually served from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. They offer a soup and a main course for a low price. This is how locals eat every single day.

Check the drink prices to spot a tourist trap. A local beer should not cost more than 60 CZK. If it is 100 CZK, you are in a tourist spot. Real restaurants focus on quality ingredients over fancy decorations. They might be located in the hidden gems in Latrán district or further out. These places value returning customers over one-time tourists. You will find better service and warmer smiles there.

Top 10 non-tourist restaurants Český Krumlov

Here are the best non-tourist restaurants Český Krumlov residents love. These spots offer great food and a local atmosphere. Use this list to plan your next lunch or dinner. You will save money and eat much better meals.

• Best overall: Hostinec Depo
• Best for families: Restaurace Na Ostrově
• Best for beer: Hospoda Na Louži
• Best modern vibe: Bistro Kolektiv

1. Name: Hostinec Depo Type: Pub & Grill Why go: It offers a great park view and fresh tank beer. Locals love the large garden and hearty grilled meats. Best for: Groups and beer lovers. Where: Latrán district near the castle gate. Time: 1.5 - 2 hours. Cost: 250–450 CZK. Getting there: Walk through the Red Gate of the Český Krumlov Castle. Tip: Try the "Svíčková" cream sauce beef for a classic taste.
2. Name: Hospoda Na Louži Type: Traditional Pub Why go: It feels like stepping back 100 years. The wood-paneled walls and old signs create a cozy vibe. Best for: Authentic atmosphere and local beer. Where: Kájovská street in the Old Town. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 200–350 CZK. Getting there: A short walk from the main square. Tip: This place is popular, so arrive early for a table.
3. Name: Restaurace Na Ostrově Type: Riverside Restaurant Why go: It is located on a small island. While near the center, it maintains a local feel with great terrace seating. Best for: Families with children. Where: The island near the bridge to the park. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 300–500 CZK. Getting there: Walk towards the city park from the center. Tip: Check the river for people enjoying swimming spots in Vltava river nearby.
4. Name: Bistro Kolektiv Type: Modern Bistro Why go: It serves the best coffee and modern lunches. It is a favorite for the younger local crowd. Best for: Light lunches and breakfast. Where: Latrán street. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: 180–300 CZK. Getting there: Located on the main walking path in Latrán. Tip: Their homemade cakes are some of the best in the city.
5. Name: Restaurace u Bejlika Type: Neighborhood Eatery Why go: This is a true residential spot far from the crowds. It offers huge portions for very low prices. Best for: Budget travelers and hikers. Where: Plešivec neighborhood. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 150–250 CZK. Getting there: Follow the Plešivec neighborhood walking guide. Tip: Order the daily soup; it is always fresh and cheap.
6. Name: Ideal Coffee Type: Roastery & Cafe Why go: They roast their own beans on-site. It is a quiet escape for serious coffee drinkers. Best for: A mid-afternoon break. Where: Quiet side street in the Old Town. Time: 30–60 minutes. Cost: 60–150 CZK. Getting there: Tucked away near the Egon Schiele Art Centrum. Tip: Buy a bag of beans as a local souvenir.
7. Name: Apotheka Café Bar Type: Cocktail Bar Why go: It is styled like an old pharmacy. Locals come here for expert drinks in a moody setting. Best for: Late night drinks. Where: Latrán. Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: 150–300 CZK. Getting there: Near the bridge connecting the Old Town and Latrán. Tip: Ask the bartender for a recommendation based on your tastes.
8. Name: Masna Krumlov Type: Meat Bistro Why go: It focuses on high-quality local meats. The setup is simple but the flavors are intense. Best for: Meat lovers and quick bites. Where: Near the brewery. Time: 30–45 minutes. Cost: 200–400 CZK. Getting there: Walk towards the northern end of the town center. Tip: Try the pastrami or the local sausages.
9. Name: Pivovar Eggenberg Restaurant Type: Brewery Restaurant Why go: It is located right inside the historic brewery. It offers a very traditional, no-frills dining experience. Best for: Large groups and beer history. Where: Latrán outskirts. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 250–400 CZK. Getting there: A 10-minute walk from the castle. Tip: Visit after exploring the Minorite Monastery hidden gardens nearby.
10. Name: Restaurace v Pivovaru Type: Local Pub Why go: This is where the brewery workers and locals gather. It is loud, friendly, and very authentic. Best for: Seeing the local life. Where: Near the brewery gates. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 150–300 CZK. Getting there: Walk past the main tourist paths toward the brewery. Tip: Be prepared for menus only in the Czech language.

What to eat at local Krumlov eateries

When visiting non-tourist restaurants Český Krumlov, you should try traditional Bohemian food. Start with a soup like "Kulajda." This is a creamy potato soup with mushrooms and dill. It is a staple of South Bohemian cuisine. For the main course, look for roasted duck with red cabbage. It is usually served with bread dumplings. This meal is filling and perfect for a cold day.

You might also see fried cheese on every menu. This is a local favorite called "Smažený sýr." It is often served with tartar sauce and fries. It is simple but very satisfying. If you want something lighter, try the local trout. The river provides fresh fish for many restaurants. You can find more tips in our guide to hidden viewpoints in Český Krumlov for a post-dinner walk.

Practical tips for your dining experience

Eating in non-tourist restaurants Český Krumlov requires some planning. Many smaller places do not take credit cards. Always carry enough Czech Koruna (CZK) for your meal. Tipping is standard but not mandatory. Usually, you round up the bill or add 10 percent. Tell the server the total amount you want to pay. Do not just leave the money on the table.

Lunch is the main meal of the day for locals. Many kitchens close between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM. Plan to eat your big meal early to save money. If you want a quiet evening, avoid the spots with live music. These are often aimed at tour groups. Instead, find a quiet corner in a local pub. You can also walk the Český Krumlov Castle quiet paths after your meal. This helps you digest while enjoying the UNESCO World Heritage site scenery.