Welcome to South Bohemia! The Budweis region offers a wide selection of places where fresh ingredients are used for cooking and emphasis is placed on the origin and quality of food. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in local products, traditional recipes and smaller producers who prepare their food with respect to the season and sustainability. This guide to local gastronomy in Budweis region provides an overview of local markets, restaurants with an emphasis on regional cuisine, traditional bakeries and specialities typical of the area. You will find specific tips on where to go for fresh baked goods, where to sample local cuisine or where to go for honey, cheese, herbs, handicrafts and other products directly from local farmers and producers.
Where is it cooked with fresh local ingredients?
Klika Kitchen & Coffee
Restaurant Klika Kitchen & Coffee boasts not only a modern interior and historic backdrop, but also exceptional cuisine that uses seasonal and local ingredients from small farmers. This popular dining destination for locals and tourists alike focuses on quality Czech cuisine, with each dish carefully prepared with respect to the freshness and origin of the ingredients. Local suppliers such as Mr. Kořének from farma Vícemil, fresh cheese from farma Diviš, chicken from Loužná and beef from Netěchovice add not only freshness but also authenticity to each dish.
A glass conservatory with a magnificent view of the Malše River and the surrounding countryside provides a cosy backdrop for relaxation and quiet seating. During the warmer months, a sunny outdoor terrace opens directly onto the waterfront, where guests can enjoy refreshing drinks and delicious al fresco meals. The restaurant is renowned for its individual approach to guests, ensuring a distinctive experience for every visit.
The owners place great emphasis on sourcing local ingredients, supporting small farmers and sustainable land management in the region. This café and restaurant focuses on fresh vegetables without chemical additives, which are harvested and delivered directly from nearby farms. Working with many small suppliers allows the restaurant to regularly refresh the menu based on the availability of seasonal ingredients. While this approach requires more complex organization and frequent planning, the restaurant believes in the importance of supporting the local economy and offering quality food that reflects the true flavors of the region.
Klika Kitchen & Coffee is one of the founding members of the gastro association Jíme Jih, with which they co-organize various food festivals and other events. At the same time, they collaborate with local mini suppliers and together create a new South Bohemian gastronomy.
Pivnice Zvon
Pivnice Zvon is located in the historic heart of České Budějovice on Přemysl Otakar II Square and is a true paradise for lovers of Czech and Viennese cuisine. The emphasis on local and ethically sourced ingredients ensures that every dish is not only delicious, but also responsibly selected. Visitors can expect a stylish interior in the style of the original Pilsner Urquell restaurant, including freshly tapped tank pilsner.
The kitchen boasts its own home-grown produce and farmhouse specialties that vary according to the season. Meat specialties, including beef and veal from the Meat Simmental breed, come directly from Mysletín Biological Farm, guaranteeing high quality and freshness.
Chef's recommended specialties include grilled Mysletín rib in a savoury crust, served with freshly shredded coleslaw and home-made Dalaman crackling, Mysletín beef roast beef tartare and beef cheeseburger on medium with fries and fat cat sauce. Each dish exemplifies a fusion of traditional methods and modern gastronomy, with carefully selected ingredients from local suppliers.
Source: www.pivnice-zvon.cz
Naše Farma
Naše Farma Restaurant is a culinary gem in the heart of České Budějovice, created thanks to the cooperation of several South Bohemian farms from the idyllic foothills of the Novohradské hory mountains and Czech Canada. This unique project specialises in the pastoral breeding of various breeds of beef cattle, including the largest herd of bison in Bohemia, as well as sheep, fallow deer and llamas.
The restaurant goes back to the roots of traditional peasant farming, when people knew exactly what they were eating. All dishes are prepared with fresh ingredients sourced directly from their own farms or from friendly producers in the region. Our Farm's menu is based on traditional Czech cuisine with modern touches, and is updated with foreign gastronomic specialties. The restaurant also offers a fine selection of world wines that perfectly complement the dishes served.
The doors of the restaurant are open to all who want to know the origin of their food and enjoy the true flavours of South Bohemia. Naše Farma welcomes not only new farmers who can enrich its offer, but above all customers who are looking for an authentic gastronomic experience.
If you are looking for a way to take a piece of South Bohemian gastronomy home, don't miss the eponymous Naše Farma store right next to the restaurant. The shop offers mainly fresh meat directly from farmers, with an emphasis on quality, freshness and fair prices. With a personal touch and a passion for good food, this family-owned business gives customers access to the best of local produce.
Source: www.restaurace.nasefarma.cz
Local specialities
Pikador
Pikador, known since 1972, is a local Budweis specialty. Unlike the American hot dog, the picador consists only of a warmed hot dog roll with sausage and basic condiments such as ketchup or mustard. This variant of the hot dog was invented by butcher Václav Masopust during a holiday in Spain. Despite competition from more modern dishes, the picador remains a favourite classic in South Bohemian cuisine, mainly thanks to its simplicity and tradition.
Where to go.
Source: instagram.com/paarkoviste/
Smažák
Fried cheese, also known as smažák, is one of the most popular Czech dishes that has won hearts not only in Budweis region, but also throughout the Czech Republic. This traditional dish consists of frying a slice of cheese coated in egg and breadcrumbs until it has a golden, crispy crust. It is most often served with tartar sauce and chips or in a simplified but very popular version - in a bun. With tartar sauce.
Cmunda, also known as potato pancake or vošůch, is a traditional South Bohemian delicacy. It consists of grated potatoes, flour, eggs and spices such as garlic, marjoram and sometimes pieces of smoked meat or bacon. Cmunda is fried in a frying pan until golden brown, which gives it its characteristic crispy texture and golden colour. It is often served as a side dish with meat dishes or as a stand-alone dish with buttermilk or sauerkraut.
Where to eat it. And if you'd like to enjoy it on its own, freshly fried and nice to hand, the sure thing is always at the Christmas markets in České Budějovice.
Source: instagram.com/vypeceny_okno
Zelňáky
Zelňáky are traditional Czech pancakes, which are very popular especially in South Bohemia. These pancakes are prepared from dough which is usually mixed with lard, shredded cabbage, onion and spices, which gives zelňáky their characteristic taste. They are baked on a baking sheet until golden brown and can be eaten on their own or as an accompaniment to meat dishes. They get their name from their main ingredient - cabbage. Cabbage rolls are popular both in the home and at various local festivals and markets, where they are often served in a variety of forms. They also have their place in modern variations of street food, where they are sometimes served with various sauces or as a base for more complex dishes.
Kulajda is a traditional Czech soup, popular especially in South Bohemia, where it is considered a culinary icon of the region. This creamy soup is based on a combination of sour cream, mushroom broth and dill, which gives it its characteristic flavour and aroma. Kulajda is typically thickened with flour and flavoured with vinegar or lemon juice to balance its rich and creamy consistency. The soup also includes boiled eggs, which are added whole or cut into pieces. It is usually served with potatoes, making it a hearty dish suitable for a main course.
Farmers' Markets at "Piaristák" have been at the heart of traditional market life in České Budějovice for around 150 years. Every Thursday and Saturday from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., you can choose from a wide range of products including fresh fruit and vegetables, honeys, syrups, jams, as well as wooden toys, flowers, spices, eggs, homemade sweets, wreaths, candles and seasonal forest fruits such as fresh and dried mushrooms.
This market is not only a place to shop, but also to meet friends and enjoy the atmosphere of the good old days in the modern world. Come and let yourself be absorbed by the charm of Piaristice Square, discover the best of the South Bohemian region and support local producers. We recommend that you head to the market as early as possible so that you have a good selection of local products. The markets are in high demand.
Castle Markets are an important tradition of Týn nad Vltavou, which enlivens Bedřichův sady every year. These markets offer a wide selection of farm produce such as fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, fish, cheese, cold cuts, honey and herbs. In addition, the markets are accompanied by a cultural programme, especially music, which adds to their unique atmosphere. They are held in the park near the revolving auditorium, making it an ideal place for a family outing combined with shopping and entertainment. Let yourself be drawn into the relaxed atmosphere of the Vltavotyn Castle Markets and support local producers while enjoying great music and the beautiful surroundings of Bedřichův Sady.
Dates for 2025: 29 March, 26 April, 31 May, 27 September and 25 October, always from 8am to 12pm.
Source: www.facebook.com/trhyvzizkarne
Farmers' Market in Žižkarna
Farmers' Market in Žižkarna brings a unique combination of fresh local produce, great atmosphere and community spirit to České Budějovice. Every 14 days on Sundays from 9:00 a.m., the industrial space of the former Žižkov barracks transforms into a lively marketplace full of smells, tastes and friendly encounters. Visitors can enjoy a selection of coffee, pastries, ice cream and a wide range of farm and artisan products from local vendors. The markets are not just about shopping, they have also become a popular place for Sunday brunch where whole families head out. For children, there is a theatre and the largest sandpit in Budějce. Admission is free and you can find the current dates HERE.
Source: www.facebook.com/sevetin.zije
Ševětín Market Under the Church
Ševětín Market Under the Church is held four times a year. Always in spring, summer, autumn and Advent. On the Small Square in Ševětín you will meet local producers who bring fresh and handmade products. For example, you can buy dairy products, cracklings, jams or fresh pastries. There is also coffee, hot breakfasts or larger meals for lunch. Crocheted animals, candles, decorations, ceramics and wooden products are available for children and adults. The assortment always varies according to the registered exhibitors and the season. The Shevetin Market is a pleasant gathering of neighbors and a place with a lovely atmosphere and seasonal offerings.
Dates for 2025: April 27, June 22, September 21, always from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Bakeries
Source.facebook.com/leipomopekarna
Leipomo Bakery
Leipomo Bakery in the heart of České Budějovice is a Czech-Finnish family bakery specialising in handmade bread, baguettes, croissants and other sweet pastries according to traditional Nordic recipes. The bakery already has two stores in České Budějovice. One in Panská Street and the other in the DOC Mercury shopping centre. We recommend trying local specialties such as cinnamon rolls or cardamom sweets.
Their breads Sipuli and Leipomo even won awards in the regional competition "Chutná hezky. Jihočesky". Their respectful products and unique approach to baking, using quality Czech flour and traditional Finnish sourdough, make Leipomo an essential stop for lovers of quality baked goods. This family-run business, founded by Jiří Hynek and his daughter, brings a piece of Finnish baking tradition to Budějovice that has become a local phenomenon, especially popular during Saturday farmers' markets.
Source: instagram.com/plachapetadvacitka
Plachá Pětadvacítka
Plachá Pětadvacítka is an artisan bakery and espresso bar in the heart of České Budějovice on Plachý Street, which together with other businesses forms the city's renowned gastronomic centre. It is located just a few steps from the main square and is one of the favourite destinations of locals and visitors looking for honest pastries and a pleasant atmosphere.
The menu offers mainly artisan pastries made from quality ingredients. Specialities include sourdough breads, croissants, danish pastry, cakes, buns, snails and other sweet and savoury treats, which are baked fresh every day. The place entices with the smell of the oven as soon as you arrive and is often a destination for foodies from all over the city.
The Plachá Pětadvacítka is a great place for breakfast, a quick lunch or a sweet break during the day. In addition to pastries, you'll find light snacks and homemade desserts. An interesting feature is their mobile espresso bar, which can be used for weddings, corporate events, markets and festivals.
Source.chlebasesoli.cz
Chleba se solí
The Chleba se solí bakery is located near České Budějovice. It is a place where bread is baked only from flour, water and salt. Founder Jakub Pavlovský is returning to the old recipes without yeast after his training in Austria. The flour comes from the Dykes' mill on the river Dyje and the rye comes from the biodynamic farm Bemagro in Malonty. In their own bakery, they then grind the mixture on a stone mill. The dough ferments naturally and ripens for hours and days. They are then baked twice, which ensures that their rye-wheat bread lasts up to ten days.
In the bakery in Včelná you can sit and enjoy coffee, tea or perhaps a butter creme fraiche and cheesecake. They also offer slices of fresh bread with spread or just salt. Jakub and his partner Zuzana have recently opened a branch in České Budějovice on Česká and Novohradská streets. There they continue the tradition of baking bread the old-fashioned way, slowly and with an emphasis on quality.
Source: www.facebook.com/chlebazHusince
Husinecký chleb
The Husinecký chleb bakery is based on a long tradition of handmade bread production that has its roots in 1955. In their original, renovated steam oven, they bake bread using only flour, water and salt, following tried and tested recipes that guarantee crispness and exceptional flavour. All the processes, from the milling of the grain to the baking, are carefully monitored, resulting in the production of bread as it used to be. The bakery has several branches in the South Bohemian Region, and in České Budějovice you can find it on Senovážné Square in Hradební Street.
Husinecký chleb also boasts recent successes in the "Chutná hezky. Jihočesky", where it won first place for the bread Husinecký Křupík and another first place for the product Midnight Shatter.
Source: www.facebook.com/pekarnasrnin
Srnín Bakehouse
Srnín Bakehouse is located in the foothills of the Šumava Mountains, near Mount Klet' and the town of Český Krumlov. Its history dates back to 1960, when it began operating here with handmade products and then modern equipment. While the bakeries in the surrounding villages gradually disappeared, Srnín expanded and production grew. At the height of the boom, thousands of tonnes of bread and pastries were baked here every year. After 1989, the bakery was privatised, and to this day it retains its emphasis on quality, handicraft and artisanal tradition. Today, it continues to build on quality, honest craftsmanship and the daily work of its bakers and pastry chefs. It offers a wide selection of products that find their place with customers.
In Budweis region you will find a total of 14 outlets of this bakery. Their list is available at the link HERE.
Source: www.facebook.com/pekarstvivzite
Bakery Pekařství v Žitě
Bakery Pekařství v Žitě is one of the traditional artisan bakeries with its beginnings in Zliv in the 1990s. The production is handmade and based on experienced bakers, quality regional ingredients and proven processes. The range includes breads, fine and cereal pastries, cakes, doughnuts, buns and other products that retain the character of the honest original. In 2025, their Cruffin filled with caramel won first place in the regional competition "Chutná hezky. Jihočesky".
They operate three stores in České Budějovice. The branch in Krajinská Street offers seating and hot breakfasts, where you can have pancakes with homemade jam, fitness pancakes, ducat buns with cream, club sandwich or scrambled eggs. The Na Sadech branch has indoor seating and a wide range of pastries. The shop on Biskupska Street is a cosy choice for a quick purchase of fresh baked goods in the city centre.
Shops with local products
Source: www.nasefarma.cz
Farm Shop NAŠE FARMA
Farm Shop NAŠE FARMA in U Černé věže street in České Budějovice offers BIO beef exclusively from Czech farms, mostly from the foothills of the Novohradské hory mountains and Czech Canada. Each piece of meat has a clearly documentable origin, which customers can verify directly on the label. Since the spring of 2024, the company has also had its own sausage production facility made from its own meat, so the offer does not lack salami, sausages, sausages, sausage rolls, meatballs, meatloaf, pates, ham and spreads. The shop is complemented by a range of own production, including organic jerky, salted potato chips, Bizon beer and cider from organic orchards.
Farmers' food Náš Grunt
Náš Grunt is a place where honest craftsmanship, quality ingredients and the work of Czech farmers meet. It offers locally sourced products that include homemade jams, quality honeys, dairy products, farm eggs and seasonal fruit and vegetables. In the stores you will also find sausages without unnecessary chemistry, aged meat and specialties from butchers who build on traditional practices and honest production.
Since 2024, Náš Grunt has been part of the Náš Chléb brand, which has brought new energy and a return to its original identity. The brand is built on tradition, a love of food and support for small regional producers. The range includes artisan pastries from the family-run Náš Chléb bakery. Each product has its own story and is the result of the work of people who prefer quality to mass production. The shop can be found in the centre of České Budějovice at 11 U Černé věže Street.
Source: www.facebook.com/obchodudobraka
Obchod U Dobráka
Shop "U Dobráka" is a small farm shop in the centre of České Budějovice, run for thirteen years by sisters Anna and Tereza Nováková. Although its size is more like a living room, you will find a wide selection of honest local food from South Bohemian farmers and producers. The offer includes fresh meat, local vegetables and fruits, cold cuts, dairy products made from cow, sheep and goat milk, pastries of all kinds and gluten-free alternatives, spices, herbs, syrups, honeys and many other products including a packaging-free assortment. There are also sweets, edible gifts, baking products or vegetarian and vegan alternatives. The U Dobráka shop can be found at Česká 49, where it proves every day that even a small space can offer great things.
Regional products
In the heart of the South Bohemian Region, unique regional products are created, which have won awards in the competition "Chutná hezky. Jihočesky". Thanks to this competition, which has been organised since 2007 by the Regional Agrarian Chamber of the South Bohemian Region with the support of the region, these products are not only a symbol of high quality, but also of the region's pride and self-confidence. All award-winning products can be found on the Chutná hezky. Jihočesky.
Regional products are ideal as souvenirs from your trip to Budweis region. We recommend visiting, for example, the Tourist Information Centre in Hluboká nad Vltavou, where they have a part of their assortment focused on local products.
ČTYRÁK DARK 14% Strong dark lager Research and Educational Microbrewery University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Faculty of Agriculture and Technology http://pivovar.zf.jcu.cz/
