Pod Aniołami

Pod Aniołami, whose name means Under the Angels, occupies the Gothic cellars of a house on Grodzka Street, the old Royal Route between the Main Market Square and Wawel. The restaurant presents itself as a family business with roots going back to 1893, and its whole identity is built around traditional Polish cooking in a historic setting. Going down the steps into the vaulted brick rooms is part of the appeal, especially on a cold evening.

The kitchen's speciality is cooking over fire using natural beech wood, and the grill is the place to start when reading the menu. Grilled and marinated meats, game and other dishes from the wood-fired grill make up the heart of the offer, and the restaurant also prepares flambéed dishes to order as a house speciality, which is worth asking about if you are celebrating. Beyond the grill there are pierogi, regional Polish soups and desserts inspired by Polish recipes, so it is possible to put together a classic meal of soup, dumplings and a main course. If you are unsure what to order, ask the staff to suggest a dish from the grill, since that is what the kitchen is best known for.

The atmosphere suits couples and small groups looking for a traditional evening out, and it works well for visitors who want an introduction to Polish food in a setting that feels rooted in the city's past. It is less suited to diners who want light, modern cooking. Vegetarians should look at the pierogi and soups, and ask staff for guidance.

The restaurant is open every day from 13:00 to 23:00, so it can be used for a late lunch as well as dinner. Booking a table is recommended for evenings, particularly at weekends and in the summer season, and reservations can be made through the restaurant's website or by phone. The cellars are reached by stairs, so check with the restaurant in advance if you have mobility needs.

Grodzka 35 is roughly halfway between the Main Market Square and Wawel Castle, so Pod Aniołami fits naturally into a day of sightseeing along the Royal Route. After dinner, a short walk south along Grodzka brings you to the foot of Wawel Hill, which is attractive in the evening light.