Why Seek Authentic Non-Tourist Restaurants in Plzeň?

Eating at local spots offers a window into the city's soul. Tourist-heavy areas often prioritize speed over quality. In contrast, local restaurants focus on seasonal ingredients and traditional techniques. You will find that local secrets in Plzeň are often tucked away in residential streets. These venues provide a much quieter atmosphere for your meal.

Prices at these establishments are significantly lower than in the city center. You can enjoy a full three-course meal for the price of a snack elsewhere. Many of these places also serve unique microbrews. Exploring hidden microbreweries Plzeň locals love often leads you to the best food. Authenticity is about the people as much as the food. You will meet residents and experience the true Czech lifestyle.

10 Best Authentic Non-Tourist Restaurants in Plzeň

Here are our top picks for a genuine dining experience. These locations have been selected for their quality and local popularity. Use this list to plan your daily meals across the city.

• Best overall: Lékárna
• Best for families: U Mansfelda
• Best rainy-day: Supa Supa
• Best budget: Kavárna v Bezovce

1. Name: Lékárna Type: Historic Restaurant Why go: This former pharmacy offers high-end traditional Czech food in a stunning historic setting. Best for: Foodies wanting a refined but authentic dinner. Where: Republic Square (North side). Time: 1.5–2 hours. Cost: 300–500 CZK. Getting there: Any tram to the city center. Tip: Try the Svíčková; it is widely considered the best in the city.
2. Name: Supa Supa Type: Soup Bistro Why go: It is a unique local experience specializing in hearty, fresh soups that change daily. Best for: A quick, healthy, and very affordable lunch. Where: Near the Great Synagogue. Time: 30–45 minutes. Cost: 80–150 CZK. Getting there: Walk from the city center toward Sady Pětatřicátníků. Tip: Arrive before 1:00 PM as popular soups sell out fast.
3. Name: Uctívaný velbloud Type: Traditional Pub Why go: Known for its "venerated camel" theme and incredible grilled meats and heavy Czech classics. Best for: Meat lovers and those seeking a cozy, underground atmosphere. Where: Old Town side street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 250–400 CZK. Getting there: A short walk from the Puppet Museum. Tip: Pair your meal with their perfectly poured Pilsner Urquell.
4. Name: Kavárna v Bezovce Type: Neighborhood Bistro Why go: It is located in a quiet residential area away from all tourist paths. Best for: A peaceful breakfast or lunch among local families. Where: Bezovka district. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 150–250 CZK. Getting there: Take Tram line 4 to the Chodské náměstí stop. Tip: Check out their homemade cakes after your main meal.
5. Name: Pivstro - Brewpub & Bistro Type: Modern Gastropub Why go: This spot combines craft beer culture with modern twists on pub food like burgers and tacos. Best for: Younger crowds and craft beer enthusiasts. Where: Near the city park ring. Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: 200–350 CZK. Getting there: Walkable from the main square in five minutes. Tip: Ask the staff for a tasting flight of their current craft taps.
6. Name: U Mansfelda Type: Parkside Restaurant Why go: It sits right against the historic city walls and offers a great terrace view of the park. Best for: Relaxed Sunday lunches with a view of nature. Where: Kopeckého sady. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 200–400 CZK. Getting there: Walk through the green belt surrounding the center. Tip: Great for families as kids can play in the nearby park.
7. Name: Pizzeria Da Pietro Type: Authentic Neapolitan Why go: While not Czech, this is where locals go for the best pizza in the country. Best for: A break from heavy meat dishes. Where: Smetanovy sady. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 220–350 CZK. Getting there: Located near the J.K. Tyl Theatre. Tip: You must book a table in advance as it is always full.
8. Name: Anděl Music Bar & Restaurant Type: Alternative Eatery Why go: It has a cool, artistic vibe and serves excellent lunch specials at great prices. Best for: Casual dining in a trendy, non-tourist environment. Where: Bezručova street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 150–300 CZK. Getting there: Two blocks from the main square. Tip: Visit during the week for the best value lunch menu.
9. Name: Měšťanská Beseda Type: Cultural Center Dining Why go: Dine in a beautiful Neo-Renaissance building that serves as a local cultural hub. Best for: A grand atmosphere without the tourist price tag. Where: Kopeckého sady. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 200–450 CZK. Getting there: Central location near the city's main gardens. Tip: Check if there is a concert or film playing afterward.
10. Name: Švejk Restaurant U Pětatřicátníků Type: Traditional Theme Restaurant Why go: It honors the famous "Good Soldier Švejk" with massive portions and classic decor. Best for: The quintessential Czech pub experience. Where: Riegrova street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 250–400 CZK. Getting there: Very close to the Adolf Loos interiors. Tip: The roasted pork knee is large enough for two people.

What to Order for a True Local Experience

When visiting authentic non-tourist restaurants in Plzeň, look for the daily menu or "denní menu." This is usually a fixed-price offer for lunch. It typically includes a soup and a main course. Locals almost always start their meal with a hot soup. Garlic soup or beef broth with liver dumplings are favorites. These dishes are perfect before exploring independent cafes in Plzeň old town for dessert.

For the main course, try the "Guláš" with bread dumplings. Unlike the Hungarian version, Czech goulash is thicker and less spicy. Another local staple is fried cheese, known as "Smažený sýr." It is a guilty pleasure that every local loves. Always pair your meal with a local beer. In Plzeň, the beer is often served with a thick, creamy head of foam. This protects the flavor and keeps the carbonation perfect.

Planning Your Culinary Tour of Plzeň

Most local restaurants are busiest between 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM. This is when workers take their lunch break. If you want a quiet meal, aim for 2:00 PM. For dinner, making a reservation is a smart move. Many nightlife spots beyond the main square also serve food late. Always check the official Visit Plzeň website for holiday opening hours.

Tipping is expected but not mandatory in the Czech Republic. A tip of about 10% is standard for good service. It is common to round up the bill when the waiter arrives. Most places in the city center accept credit cards. However, smaller neighborhood spots might only take cash. It is wise to carry some Czech Koruna for smaller bistros. This ensures you never miss out on a hidden gem.