For ages, holidaymakers held the view the City of a Hundred Spires meant nothing but traditional pivnice and dense bread dumplings. Those days are gone. Nowadays, the Golden City has quietly transformed into an underrated gastronomic capital. In this city, humble beer halls coexist with reasonably priced bistro cooking that rivals starred establishments. Whether you are a budget backpacker or a fine-dining enthusiast, Prague treats your stomach right. Further insights on Beyond the Table: How a GFE Companion Elevates Your Prague Social Standing can be found via our digital platform.

You cannot leave Prague without a proper hospoda (pub) experience. These are boisterous, semi-smoky and admirably straightforward spaces.

The benchmark for contemporary takes on Czech classics - Lokal serves tankove pivo (unpasteurized beer straight from the barrel) and classics like fried cheese and svickova. How it works is uncomplicated. Just write down your order on a paper ticket; the waitstaff rushes it out. You will marvel at how little you pay.

Zlaty Tygr - An enduring institution. President Vaclav Havel brought foreign dignitaries here. Do not expect a menu. The offerings include the iconic Pilsner Urquell, slow-cooked pork knuckle, and a spirited assembly of regulars who treat the place like a second home. Come before the evening rush, or resign yourself to remaining on your feet.

A new generation of cooks is lightening up traditional family dishes while adding inventive touches.

Eska: Located in what was once an abattoir. Eska worships at the altars of pickling, open-fire bread-making, and nose-to-tail butchery. Your plate of smoked fish (or steak tartare) arrives with a side of theater: bakers retrieving sourdough from a roaring oven. Securing a table in advance is non-negotiable.

Field: When splurging on a memorable meal. This Michelin-decorated treasure located in Stare Mesto elevates produce to the status of precious stones. The multi-course chef's selection reads like a lyrical passage from spring to winter. The waiting staff delivers perfection while the wine list showcases the best of the Moravian region.

The Golden City continues to offer superb value — you just need to avoid the most crowded spots.

Havelska Koruna: Established during communist times, this self-service eatery remains as reliable as ever. Grab a tray, point at whatever looks good (roast duck, potato pancakes, cucumber salad), and pay by the weight. Deeply genuine and almost offensively inexpensive.

Palo Verde Bistro: The city's number one vegan fare — and omni eaters are on board. You will doubt it is not pork; you will not believe the cheesecake is vegan — and suddenly, you are a believer. Nestled in Letna, Prague's coolest postcode.