Top 11 Places for Medieval Dining in Český Krumlov

Choosing where to eat in this historic town can be difficult. There are many options, but some offer a more authentic vibe than others. Here are the top spots to enjoy a historic meal.

• Best Overall: Krčma Šatlava
• Best for Families: Tavern of the Two Marys
• Best View: Krumlovský mlýn
• Best for Groups: Eggenberg Brewery

1. Name: Krčma Šatlava Type: Tavern Why go: This is the most famous spot for medieval dining in Český Krumlov. It features a massive open grill where chefs cook meat over wood flames. The stone walls and wooden benches create a perfect dungeon atmosphere. Best for: Authentic atmosphere and grilled meats. Where: Šatlavská street, near the main square. Time: 2 hours. Cost: 400–800 CZK per person. Getting there: A short walk from the Town Hall. Tip: You must book a table weeks in advance for dinner.
2. Name: Tavern of the Two Marys (U Dwou Maryí) Type: Historic Restaurant Why go: They serve unique "Old Bohemian" food that predates the potato. Try the feast platters with millet, buckwheat, and roasted chicken. The building dates back to the 16th century. Best for: Traditional historic recipes and river views. Where: Parkán street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 300–600 CZK per person. Getting there: Located on the river side of the inner town. Tip: Sit on the small riverside terrace if the weather is nice.
3. Name: Eggenberg Brewery Restaurant Type: Brewery/Experience Why go: This massive hall is part of a historic brewery. It offers a grand, industrial-medieval feel with high ceilings and long tables. The beer is brewed on-site and pairs perfectly with heavy Czech dishes. Best for: Large groups and beer lovers. Where: Latrán district. Time: 2 hours. Cost: 350–700 CZK per person. Getting there: Walk across the bridge toward the brewery gates. Tip: Try the dark lager with a slow-roasted pork knee.
4. Name: Krumlovský mlýn (The Old Mill) Type: Mill/Sight Why go: Located in a former water mill, this spot offers a rustic, historic setting. You can see the old machinery while you eat near the rushing river. It is a great place to see best viewpoints in Český Krumlov while dining. Best for: River views and historic architecture. Where: Near the bridge to the castle. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 400–900 CZK per person. Getting there: Walk down from the castle entrance. Tip: Visit during the day to see the water wheel clearly.
5. Name: Restaurace Konvice Type: Historic Tavern Why go: This restaurant is inside one of the oldest buildings in town. It features a stunning terrace overlooking the river and the castle. The interior is filled with antiques and dark wood. Best for: Romantic dinners with a view. Where: Horní street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: 500–1,000 CZK per person. Getting there: Located on the hill leading to the regional museum. Tip: Request a terrace table when you make your reservation.
6. Name: Hospoda Na Louži Type: Neighborhood Pub Why go: This is a classic, wood-paneled pub that feels like it hasn't changed in decades. It is less "showy" than the dungeon taverns but very authentic. It is one of the best things to do in Český Krumlov for a local feel. Best for: Budget-friendly authentic Czech food. Where: Kájovská street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 250–500 CZK per person. Getting there: Near the Egon Schiele Art Centrum. Tip: Try the local Eggenberg beer here for a lower price.
7. Name: Don Julius Type: Hotel Restaurant Why go: Located in the Hotel Zlatý Anděl, this restaurant has a grand historic feel. It sits right on the main square. The menu mixes medieval inspirations with modern Czech cuisine. Best for: Upscale dining in a historic setting. Where: Svornosti Square. Time: 2 hours. Cost: 600–1,200 CZK per person. Getting there: It is in the very center of the town. Tip: This is a great choice for things to do in Český Krumlov with kids because of the varied menu.
8. Name: Le Jardin Type: Fine Dining Why go: While more modern in its service, the setting is a beautiful historic cellar. It offers a refined take on South Bohemian flavors. It is perfect if you want the history without the rowdy tavern noise. Best for: Foodies and special occasions. Where: Latrán 77. Time: 2.5 hours. Cost: 1,000–2,000 CZK per person. Getting there: Near the castle entrance. Tip: Look for their seasonal tasting menus.
9. Name: Rožmberk Castle Tavern Type: Day Trip Why go: Located about 25 minutes from town, this tavern sits under the Rožmberk Castle. It offers a very medieval atmosphere by the river. It is a perfect escape from the city crowds. Best for: A combined historic tour and meal. Where: Rožmberk nad Vltavou. Time: 4 hours (including travel). Cost: 300–600 CZK per person. Getting there: Take a local bus or drive south. Tip: Visit the castle before eating at the tavern.
10. Name: Vyšší Brod Monastery Cellar Type: Day Trip Why go: The monastery is a stunning historic site with its own brewery. The cellar restaurant serves hearty monk-inspired meals. It is a peaceful and deeply historic experience. Best for: History buffs and quiet atmosphere. Where: Vyšší Brod. Time: 5 hours (including travel). Cost: 300–600 CZK per person. Getting there: Accessible by train or car from Český Krumlov. Tip: Check the monastery tour times before you go.
11. Name: Hluboká Castle Eateries Type: Day Trip Why go: Hluboká is often called the most beautiful castle in the country. The surrounding town has several historic-themed restaurants. They cater to those visiting the white neo-Gothic fortress. Best for: A full day of castle exploring. Where: Hluboká nad Vltavou. Time: 6 hours (including travel). Cost: 400–800 CZK per person. Getting there: A 40-minute drive north of Český Krumlov. Tip: Walk through the castle gardens to work up an appetite.

What to Expect from Medieval Dining in Český Krumlov

Medieval dining in this city is more than just a meal. It is an immersive sensory experience. You will often find yourself in a room with no electric lights. Instead, candles and fire provide a warm, orange glow. The furniture is usually heavy oak, and the floors are stone.

The food is designed to be hearty and filling. Expect plenty of meat, such as pork, duck, and venison. Smoked meats are a local specialty in South Bohemia. Side dishes often include cabbage, dumplings, or ancient grains like millet. You might even eat with your hands in some taverns.

Drinks are an important part of the feast. Most places serve local beer or mead, which is honey wine. The service is often brisk and informal, matching the tavern theme. It is a loud, fun, and very social way to spend an evening.

Practical Tips for Your Historic Feast

Reservations are essential for the most popular spots. Places like Krčma Šatlava can book up weeks in advance. This is especially true during the summer months and the Christmas markets season. Use the restaurant's website or ask your hotel to call.

Most restaurants accept credit cards, but smaller taverns might prefer cash. It is always good to have some Czech Koruna (CZK) on hand. Tipping is customary in the Czech Republic. A tip of about 10% is standard for good service in these venues.

Be prepared for the temperature inside historic cellars. Even in summer, stone basements can be quite chilly. Bring a light sweater or jacket for your meal. Most dinners start around 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM and can last several hours.

Exploring More History Beyond the Plate

After your meal, take time to explore the rest of the city. The State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov is the main attraction. It offers a deep look into the lives of the lords who once ruled here. You can learn about the history that inspired the local cuisine.

The town is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walking the streets at night is a magical experience. The crowds thin out, and the castle is beautifully lit. It is the perfect time to imagine life in the Middle Ages.

If you have more time, visit the Český Krumlov Castle interiors. The Baroque theater and the castle tower are must-see spots. These attractions help put your medieval dining experience into a larger historical context.