2 Best Restaurants in Podgorze, Krakow

Off the beaten path, in an unlikely, postindustrial area of Podgórze called Zabłocie, this little restaurant is worth the trip on its own. Even better, you can combine it with a visit to the Oskar Schindler Enamel Factory and Museum of Contemporary Art, both of which are nearby. The concept is perfect: an open kitchen, a team of enthusiastic and talented chefs, and a small menu that changes with the seasons. For the most part ingredients are fresh, organic, and usually local, but sometimes exotic. Influences can be seen far and wide: Polish, European, Asian, and the chefs experiment with flavors, textures, and forms. The atmosphere may be hip and casual, but don't be fooled: this is a serious restaurant. It is also reasonably priced, especially for lunch. The staff are happy to suggest wine pairings by the glass, a nice touch. Do call for reservations; the restaurant is popular and is also sometimes be closed for workshops or events.

What luck that award-winning chef Rafał Targosz, who has worked in top restaurants, has decided to open his own bistro in Kraków! The small but wide-ranging menu draws from both Polish and French culinary traditions and changes seasonally, but pay particular attention to the dishes of the day written out on a blackboard. The chef seems to do an equally good job with meat and fish, and both the soups and desserts are well worth your consideration. Zakładka takes reservations—which are strongly recommended. It's located just across the Vistula from Kazimierz, at the end of the footbridge.