Starka

Starka Restaurant, like its brand-name Starka vodka, is a charming and unpretentious little place that boasts tradition, a strong Polish character, and beauty in colour and flavour. Tucked away in the winding streets of Krakow's Kazimierz district at ul. Jozefa 14, a hop away from the central hub of Plac Nowy, the traditional Polish restaurant and vodka manufacturer offers a cozy atmosphere and intimate, artsy setting. Deep red walls adorned with black-framed Zille paintings, heavy ceiling beams, and simple uncovered tables set with lilies create an atmosphere of easy relaxation with a bohemian twist. Add to this calm music, candlelight and a friendly staff, and the scene is set for the perfect evening.

Starka offers a menu at once traditional and original, presenting the best of Polish cuisine in a creative array of artfully constructed dishes. Recommendations include wild mushroom soup with pasta; crispy-skinned pork knuckle with cabbage, horseradish, mustard and a slice of bread; a light salad with grilled salmon, capers, sliced apple and honey-dill balsamic dressing; and a delectable meringue-nougat cake served ice-cold in a strawberry sauce. Other popular delights are the sour rye soup, sautéed wild mushrooms on toast, marinated pork neck, and in-house versions of the traditional Polish favourites, cheesecake and apple pie.

A unique addition to Starka's menu is its own house brand of vodka, flavoured with tempting hints of cranberry, pear, ginger with rose liqueur, herb and honey, raspberry or apricot. Homemade vodka, a warm atmosphere, welcoming staff, family-friendly setting, air conditioning, free WiFi access and a quiet but central location combine to make this Kazimierz restaurant an irresistible choice for a relaxing night out.