Why Prague Is One of Europe's Best Cities for Kosher Travelers

Finding travel destinations with good kosher infrastructure can be difficult, but sometimes there are gems hidden in plain sight. Prague, Czech Republic, may be the most underrated city in Europe when it comes to solving this issue. Not only are there incredible Jewish heritage sites throughout the city, but you can also stop for a slice of pizza or sandwich at noon, and end the day with a hearty steak right in the city center.

1. In spite of its small population, the Prague Jewish community boasts three unique kosher restaurants, each conveniently located in or near the city center and at walking distance from the chabad. The first is a quaint Italian restaurant, U MILO, which is located right next door to the chabad. This restaurant is certified pat yisroel and chalav yisroel to adhere to Jews of various observance levels. Here you can stop in for a quick lunch of salad or pasta, or stay for fish dinner. But the must try dish is the fried gouda which has been tried and praised time and time again by kosher travelers coming for an authentic taste of Prague. The second restaurant spot is a dairy restaurant as well, which is also both pas yisroel and chalav yisroel. The best part is that it is situated right next door to the meat restaurant so you don’t have to decide what you’re in the mood for until you arrive. Shelanu restaurant is a renowned pizzeria dedicated to serving fresh pizza, sandwiches, and vegetarian food. A friend of mine has particularly praised their noteworthy falafel balls which is definitely worth a try upon visiting. And of course I can’t miss the meat restaurant, The Chabad Grill, which is a spacious and hospitable restaurant in the city center. They offer Mediterranean style cuisine, open for both take out lunches or relaxed dinners. The food is delectable, often praised for the quality and flavor. A personal favorite of mine and friends of mine who have dined here is the schnitzel which is one of the restaurant’s most popular dishes. 

2. For travelers looking for a kosher hotel in Prague, you can’t miss staying at Hotel King David. Just a twenty minute walk from the old Jewish Quarter (Josefov district) and five minutes away from central station, this hotel has everything you need to enjoy all the wonders the city has to offer, while keeping kosher comfortably. At the hotel there is buffet-style breakfast, and a lobby bar which offers sandwiches and snacks on all days except shabbat. The kashrut is under the daily supervision of Rabbi Eliyahu Rotenberg and adheres to strict standards. What really stands out is visitors' praise on how child-friendly this hotel is. The food options are suitable for both adventurer’s palette as well as familiar options for children. Kosher aside, visitors have consistently remarked on how clean and spacious the rooms are, reassuring everyone that you don’t have to compromise your comfort for the sake of keeping kosher.

3. If you’d like to pack some snacks along or prepare your own food, there’s an option for you too. In the basement of the chabad grill hides a small kosher store equipped with all the essentials one may need. All the products are imported from Israel and come in many of the brands you may already be familiar with. On the shelves you may find Bissli and bamba, canned goods such as olives and pickles, dairy products, sweets, wine, and cooking ingredients. You can shop there daily from 12:30-22:00, so be sure to clear some time in your afternoon or evening if you’d like to pick something up. 

4. Additionally to buying kosher goods at the Chabad mini-market, there’s another option for purchasing food on the go. The Jewish community of Prague releases a kosher list which is available online, listing all of the food found in popular supermarket chains that are kosher. On this list you’ll find breads, canned fish, jams and spreads, baby food, dairy products and more, each listed with the exact names of the companies and hechsher type. I have found that it’s useful to screenshot the exact products you’re looking for and familiarize yourself with the colors and images on the label so it stands out to you when you find it, instead of standing in the aisle, scrolling down the kosher list as you’re trying to match the items. 

5. Eating on shabbat during your Prague stay is easy and accommodative. If you’re staying at Hotel King David, be sure to book reservations for the dining room where Friday night dinners and Shabbat lunches are served. If you’re staying elsewhere, you’re not out of luck. Shabbat meals are held at the Chabad Grill restaurant. In order to accommodate the shabbat-observant visitors, you are able to book your spot and pay beforehand, so you can arrive calmly knowing everything is arranged. The environment is homey and warm and attending one of these shabbat meals is a great opportunity to meet fellow Jews from around the world, as well as the locals.

Prague has been one of Europe's historic centers of Jewish life. In fact, the first known documentation of Jewish life in the city dates back to 965 ce when Sefardi traveler, Ibrahim ibn Yaqub, described Jewish merchants in Prague. Despite pogroms and persecutions ravaging its early years, by the 18th century a quarter of Prague’s population was Jewish. That being said, Jews were a crucial part of Czech society throughout the years and served as mathematicians,  astronomers, historians, philosophers and much more. Today, there are between 1,500 - 5,000 Jews living in Prague. Despite being small for a community that was once renowned for its size, contributions, and folklore, the Jewish community of Prague still thrives, offering a small slice of the past to both residents and visitors alike. 

Whether you're coming for the Jewish history, the architecture, or simply a relaxing European getaway, Prague proves that keeping kosher abroad doesn't have to be stressful. With kosher restaurants, a kosher hotel, accessible shopping, and welcoming Shabbat meals, you can spend less time worrying about logistics and more time enjoying one of Europe's most beautiful cities. 

Planning a kosher trip to Prague? I help Jewish travelers find kosher restaurants, Shabbat-friendly accommodations, synagogues, and create personalized itineraries throughout Europe. Get in touch if you'd like help planning your trip.