Good Food On the Go

There was a time not many years ago when a quick bite on the go in Prague was largely limited to the predictable international fast-food chains and the fatty -- albeit tasty -- fare from the local sausage stands. These are still around, but if you're in the mood for something more flavorful while rushing around, keep an eye out for these specialty shops and bakeries in the downtown area, which offer freshly made sandwiches, salads, prepared meals, and pastries.

Bakeshop Praha (Kozi 1, Staré Mesto) has fresh fragrant bread, good salads, and rich brownies. The sandwiches with English bacon have earned a patriotic following. There's seating indoors if you're not looking to take your meal with you.

Culinaria (Skorepka 9, Staré Mesto) supplies a wide selection of salads, main courses, and desserts that change regularly. The display is always a painter's palette of vivid color, and the staff is helpful. An herbal juice bar is complemented by a sweeping selection of the best imported soft drinks. You can eat standing up at one of the few tables, or everything is available to go.

Paneria (Kaprova 3, Staré Mesto. Nekázanka 19, Nové Mesto. Belehradská 71, Vinohrady) locations are popping up in almost every district, some within two blocks of each other -- there are at least three in Old Town alone. The sandwiches are standardized but made fresh when you order, and they come with toppings such as green olives, mascarpone, and tomato. Desserts include some winners, such as the flan with forest berries.