When visiting Poland’s Baltic coast, fresh fish should be your first port of call. Characterized by a tradition of maritime trading, Gdansk is a colourful city full of references to its past as a hub for wealthy merchants. Wander down streets of distinctively un-Polish architecture, browse the amber shops and settle into one of the many dockside beer gardens or cafes. End each day in Poland’s principal seaport with a slap-up meal of the best seafood in the region. Here’s our list of the best places to eat fish in Gdansk.
Warm, light wood furniture topped with checked blue tablecloths make this restaurant a visual delight before you’ve even seen the food. Following on the tradition of the fish markets in the city which date back to 1343, the nautical interiors compliment the menu perfectly creating the ultimate seafood culinary experience. Featuring an array of fish from cod fillet in breadcrumbs, to oysters and St. James’ scallops, the food is next to none. Pair a carefully selected wine from the resident cellar with your meal, sit back, relax and enjoy!
Nestled in the centre of the Old Town’s waterfront, this self-service fish shop gives you a taste of the ocean without breaking the bank. The casual atmosphere of the riverside patio adds to the experience as you chow down on large portions of calamari and breaded fish whilst looking out over spectacular views of the water. Ideal for a quick bite, the restaurant is fast and efficient without compromising on taste.
In the heart of the growing business districts, Wrzeszcz and Oliwa, Lobster is open all day from breakfast to dinner. Favoured amongst local workers for its lunch menu, the fish eatery offers up specialty dishes such as Fine de Claire oysters, shrimp tempura, surf and turf butter and of course, lobster. Suitable for every occasion, this is the only place in town you’ll find a 1000 litre tank with live lobsters and oysters proving their fish really is fresh!
Walk or cycle a short distance outside of Gdansk to the beach at Jelitkowo for the ultimate beach hut fish and chips. Start with the spicy fish soup, fill your stomachs with cod fried in spongy batter and spend the rest of the afternoon strolling along the sandy beach.
Named after a character from Polish folklore, Gdanski Bowke transports you back in time to the days of the thriving 19th century port. Dark wood furniture and modern, exposed brick walls tie together its strong nautical theme and set the scene for an evening of authentically Polish seafood. Visit the place where time stood still and wash down fresh Baltic fish with the restaurant’s specially brewed beer.
Overlooking the Vistula river, the classy sophisticated spot prides itself on its fish-focused menu. Sit back and watch the world sail past in the chic surroundings of the eatery. Known for its quality and Old Town location, the food inspired by the marital tradition of the city, will have you hook, link and sinker.
Founded in 1598, this is one of the oldest restaurants in the city. Quite possibly Gdansk’s most famous spot for food, its fish dishes are some of the most highly regarded in the region. Decked out in red leather seating, brass chandeliers and a plethora of glass lamps, the restaurant even has its own specialty vodka produced in its cellar since the 16th century. Run by the third generation of the same family that took over the place after WWII, there’s no doubting this hotspot for local culture should be added to your list of the best places to eat fish in Gdansk.
Inside the Osrodek Kultury Morskiej at the Dlugie Pobrzeze, you’ll find a great seafood restaurant with an even better outdoor terrace. Head up to the fourth floor and indulge in some exceptional seafood whilst taking in panoramic views of the city. Fish-lovers will be salivating over their kaszubskimi, sledziami and baltyckimi lobster. The whole menu is available to eat in or take out so you can bring a slice of Cala Naprzod home with you.
Venture to Sopot, Gdansk’s neighbour and test the waters at Seafood Station. With interior inspired by iconic fish markets from around the world, the multi-purpose space serves up local fish with the best regional produce available. Featuring trendy dishes such as Oyster Rockefeller, grilled tuna steak and authentic British fish and chips, the restaurant is a much-loved local spot you need to try.
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Flights to Gdansk
- Lucy Norris