I find that Czech friends and foreigners alike are often surprised that I can survive here as a vegetarian. “How do you manage to feed yourself? Czech food is so meat-centric?”. Quite well really! Certainly within Prague it is no problem at all, though in smaller towns and villages eating out often involves smažený sýr (fried cheese) or risotto. I’m vegetarian, not vegan, but I don’t eat meat or fish (which is really meat, isn’t it?).
I’ve mentioned one or two of these places before, but here is a non-comprehensive list of my go-to places in Prague.
Restaurants:
Yes, this is the same Govinda you find all over the place in Europe – the Hare Krishna group that runs vegetarian restaurants, usually with set menus. 95Kč will get you the small menu plate which always includes soup, some sort of salad (rice or bean), rice or bulgur with vegetables and sauce, There are three locations in Prague. One very near Palladium mall in the centre, one in Prague 8 and the newest one, which appears to be a separate business, in Prague 5 across the street from Smíchovské nádraží. I’m partial to the one in Prague 5 as I find the food is fresher plus you get tea or juice included with your meal.
These vegan buffets can be found all over Prague, including in the food courts at Nový Smíchov and Galerie Butovice malls. It is amazing how busy they are. Food is sold by the 100 grams, usually between 19 and 22Kč, though if you come after 8pm it is usually discounted by up to 50%. It’s a little expensive if you need a big meal, but as a small meal on the go it is perfect.
For somewhere a little nicer, this is a great option. These restaurants are somehow related but have a different menu. Maitrea has a fantastic cozy lower floor eating area. Reservations are recommended on busy nights. The food is all original, well prepared with some “re-engineered” Czech specialties such as goulash or svíčková.
Polévka is Czech for soup and is a good option in many cafes and restaurants. This small restaurant near na plavka specializes in soups and always has some vegetarian options on the board. Economical and including bread with every bowl of soup. Be warned, it is very small and very busy at lunch time.
For a change of taste I sometimes go for the all you can eat Indian buffet at Indian by Nature. There are several locations in Prague but I am partial to the one near Hradčanská, the food seems fresher and the service friendlier. 125Kč gets you all you can eat, there are veggie and meat options was well as salad and naan. Drinks are extra of course.
There are many, many other restaurants. Some I’ve forgotten and other great ones I have yet to experience. Happy Cow will help you locate new places to try!
Grocery Shopping:
Here again there are many good options. Specialty store such as Country Life and Rozmaryna are great for a good selection of organic and bio products. Every weekend there are farmer’s markets all over town including my favourite at Na Plavka. Don’t forget the six day a week year-round market in Holesovice, found in the Vietnamese market area at the Pražská tržnice tram stop. It is less touristy and has a great selection of fresh local produce.
Good luck and dobrou chuť!
Canadian in Prague 