Quick Picks for Dining in Karlovy Vary

Don't have time to read the full list? Here are our top recommendations for every type of traveler. These spots are reliable and offer great value. They represent the best of the local food scene.

• Best Overall: Restaurace Karel IV (Great beer and food)
• Best for Families: Charleston (Cozy and welcoming)
• Best Fine Dining: Le Marché (Gourmet experience)
• Best for Views: Smíchovský pavilon (Forest setting)

12 Best Authentic Local Restaurants Karlovy Vary

Exploring the local food scene is a highlight of any visit. These restaurants focus on traditional recipes and local ingredients. Most are located within walking distance of the city center. Always try to book a table during the peak summer season. Here are the top authentic local restaurants Karlovy Vary has to offer in 2026.

1. Name: Restaurace Karel IV Type: Brewery & Restaurant Why go: It is located in the Becherplatz complex and serves amazing house-brewed beer. The atmosphere feels like a traditional 19th-century square. Best for: Beer lovers and meat eaters. Where: City Center (Becherplatz). Time: 1.5 - 2 hours. Cost: Moderate ($$). Getting there: Walk from the Jan Becher Museum. Tip: Try the roasted pork knee with their Charles IV beer. For more local advice, see these local secrets in Karlovy Vary.
2. Name: Staroslovanská kuchyně Type: Historical Experience Why go: They use ancient Slavic recipes and cook in traditional stone ovens. The interior is rustic with heavy wooden tables. Best for: A unique historical atmosphere. Where: Near the main colonnades. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate ($$). Getting there: A short walk from the Market Colonnade. Tip: Their homemade bread and skewers are legendary. Check the official tourism site for seasonal events here.
3. Name: Restaurace U Švejka Type: Traditional Pub Why go: This is a classic Czech experience named after the famous soldier Švejk. It serves huge portions of traditional Bohemian food. Best for: Iconic Czech goulash and dumplings. Where: Near the Grandhotel Pupp. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate ($$). Getting there: Walk south along the Teplá River. Tip: The walls are covered in fun illustrations from the Švejk books.
4. Name: Smíchovský pavilon Type: Historic Woodland Restaurant Why go: It sits on the edge of the forest and offers a peaceful escape. The building is a beautiful historic pavilion. Best for: Nature lovers and quiet dinners. Where: Forest edge, Westend district. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate to High ($$-$$$). Getting there: Take a taxi or enjoy a walk through the spa woods hiking trails. Tip: Visit during the afternoon for a coffee and cake with a view.
5. Name: Le Marché Type: Fine Dining Why go: Chef Jan Krajč creates a new menu every day based on fresh market finds. It is the best place for a modern culinary experience. Best for: Special occasions and foodies. Where: Near the Imperial Hotel. Time: 2.5 hours. Cost: High ($$$). Getting there: Walk uphill from the river or take a local bus. Tip: You must book a table in advance as it is very popular.
6. Name: Restaurant Embassy Type: Old-World Elegant Why go: This restaurant has been serving guests since the 18th century. It offers a very refined and classic atmosphere. Best for: Romantic dinners. Where: Near the Stará Louka street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: High ($$$). Getting there: Walk along the main pedestrian zone. Tip: Try the traditional roasted duck with red cabbage.
7. Name: Tusculum Type: Farm-to-Table Why go: They focus on organic ingredients and healthy, modern interpretations of Czech food. The garden seating is lovely in summer. Best for: Healthy eaters and garden dining. Where: Sadová street. Time: 1.5 - 2 hours. Cost: Moderate to High ($$-$$$). Getting there: Walk from the Dvořák Park. Tip: The lunch menu is a great value way to try their food.
8. Name: Velkopopovická pizzerie Type: Casual Local Haunt Why go: Despite the name, they serve excellent Czech pub food alongside pizza. It is where locals go for a cheap and filling meal. Best for: Budget travelers. Where: Near the bus station. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Budget ($). Getting there: Walk from the Tržnice bus stop. Tip: It is often crowded with locals, which is a sign of quality.
9. Name: Charleston Type: Themed Restaurant Why go: The decor is inspired by the 1920s and English style. It feels very cozy and different from the typical pub. Best for: A relaxed evening with friends. Where: Bulharská street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate ($$). Getting there: Walk from the main shopping area. Tip: Their steaks and grilled meats are highly recommended.
10. Name: Restaurace Sklipek Type: Traditional Basement Pub Why go: This cellar restaurant offers a very authentic, non-touristy vibe. It is cozy, dark, and serves cold beer. Best for: An authentic local atmosphere. Where: Near the theater. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Budget ($). Getting there: Look for the stairs leading down near the river. Tip: This is one of the best local secrets in Karlovy Vary for cheap eats.
11. Name: Restaurant Jan Svatoš Type: Nature Day Trip Why go: Located right by the famous granite rock formations. It is a perfect stop after a long walk. Best for: Hikers and families. Where: Svatošské skály. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate ($$). Getting there: Follow the Svatošské Rocks nature trip path from the city. Tip: Sit outside to enjoy the views of the river and rocks.
12. Name: Restaurace Staroslovanská kuchyně Loket Type: Nearby Day Trip Why go: Located in the charming town of Loket, just minutes away. The town and castle are stunning. Best for: A half-day trip combined with lunch. Where: Loket (15km from Karlovy Vary). Time: 3-4 hours total. Cost: Moderate ($$). Getting there: Take a short train or bus ride from the city center. Tip: Walk around the Westend architecture walk before heading out of town.

Practical Tips for Eating in Karlovy Vary

Dining in the Czech Republic has its own set of customs. Most authentic local restaurants Karlovy Vary hosts will expect a small tip. Usually, rounding up the bill or adding 10% is standard. Always check if service is already included in the bill. Many traditional spots prefer cash over credit cards. It is wise to carry some Czech Koruna for smaller pubs.

Lunch is the main meal of the day for locals. Many restaurants offer a "polední menu" or daily lunch special. This is often a soup and a main dish for a very low price. These specials usually run from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. It is the best way to eat like a local on a budget. If you want to avoid the busiest times, try eating lunch around 1:30 PM.

Dinner reservations are highly recommended for the top-rated spots. You can often book online or via a quick phone call. In 2026, many places will use digital booking platforms. If you are traveling in a group, booking is essential. For more tips on timing your visit, see our guide on avoiding crowds in Karlovy Vary.