Olomouc: on a Plate – and in My Heart
Stylish spots that turn this Moravian gem into a gourmet destination – and a touch of Paris in the heart of Haná.
Ah, Olomouc, my beloved. The city I call home and the one that will forever live in my heart as the place where I belong. In recent years, it’s become a vibrant hub for new cafés, restaurants, and all kinds of cool places to discover. Some are absolutely worth your visit, others maybe not — but that’s just the nature of things. Let’s take a look together at the ones that truly shine.
Long Story Short – Hostel, Restaurant, Café, and Bakery
If you like everything in one place, Long Story Short was made for you. It offers both private and shared accommodation, so you can enjoy a cozy night’s sleep and then roll right into breakfast mode. Whether you go for the buffet or pick something from the menu, you’re in for a treat. Personally, I recommend anything from their in-house bakery — from sourdough bread to sweet pastries. My top pick? The pear-walnut crumble tart. Or, if you’re dreaming of Paris, their homemade croissant won’t disappoint.
To pair with the pastry, grab a great cup of coffee — or matcha, if you prefer your caffeine to kick in slowly. For lunch or dinner, you can either dine inside their stylish restaurant or, if you’re visiting in the warmer months, head to their outdoor terrace and grill. My go-to orders: the burger or a fresh Caesar salad.
Pikola
Olomouc is now home to not one but two charming locations of the iconic Pikola café, proudly tied to the local specialty roastery of the same name. One is an espresso bar; the other is a full-service café beautifully connected to the Moravian Theatre. It’s my personal favorite for brunch, fantastic coffee, and staff who are genuinely lovely — what more could you ask for? Oh wait, a sunny courtyard? Yes, that too. Tucked into a quiet inner block, it’s the kind of place where no cars or crowds will bother you. And yes, it’s totally kid-friendly.
Their brunch menu features French toast made from sweet brioche, Turkish eggs, or, if you’re feeling a little more basic (but still craving something delicious), classic scrambled eggs. As for coffee — they usually offer two types on the grinder, and you can’t go wrong with either. My suggestion: Turkish eggs and any coffee you like. Try an espresso to really taste the depth and soul of their beans.
Jazz Tibet Club
Who doesn’t love live music, right? That’s where Jazz Tibet Club comes in — a local legend with a long-running tradition. The concerts here span everything from jazz to alternative rap. Check GoOut to grab tickets while you still can!
Great music deserves great food and drinks — and here, you’ll get both. From craft beers to signature cocktails and homemade lemonades, they’ve got you covered. Hungry? Try their house burger, grilled cheese, or a little something to nibble on, like nachos with cheddar and jalapeños. My recommendations? The beer “Frída” — fresh and slightly fruity; the cocktail “Jazzy Cherry” — a perfect blend of cherry syrup, soda, and vodka; and for a non-alcoholic option, the mango-passionfruit lemonade is a winner.
Don’t expect a hyper-modern interior — that just wouldn’t fit the jazz vibe. Instead, you’ll find walls lined with framed photos of musicians, writers, and other creatives. On the stage, a baby grand piano shines under Tibetan lanterns. It’s got soul — and it shows.
Entrée Restaurant
For those who love fine dining and don’t mind splurging a little, Entrée is a guaranteed hit. Located on the outskirts of Olomouc, this high-end restaurant led by chef Přemek Forejt offers an experience from the moment you step inside. Think open kitchen, lush greenery, natural light — and dishes that are as visually stunning as they are flavorful.
They typically offer three tasting menu options, each built around a unique seasonal theme. If you want to see what modern Czech — and international — cuisine looks like at its peak, this is your chance. Yes, it’s a bit of an investment, but every bite feels like edible art.
To wrap it up...
Olomouc is so much more than just cheese and baroque landmarks. It’s a city that smells like fresh coffee, tastes like homemade pastries and fusion cuisine, and sounds like jazz played on a baby grand. Whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth, these places will remind you that sometimes, all you need is to slow down — and savor the moment.