Discover the 13 Visionary Czech Chefs Shaping Culinary Trends in 2025!
1. Jan Knedla: Papilio (Vysoký Újezd)
Jan Knedla, who has captured the title of Golden Chef 2023 and was awarded the prestigious “Chef of the Year” by Gault&Millau, represents a fresh wave of talent in Czech cookery. Known for merging respect for culinary traditions with innovative techniques, his establishment, Papilio, showcases meticulous menus that draw inspiration from nature and locally sourced ingredients.
Where to Go: Nestled just a short drive from Prague, Vysoký Újezd offers serene rural views of the undulating Brdy hills. This destination is perfect for a gastronomic escape, complete with overnight accommodation or a round of golf at the nearby Albatross Golf Resort.
2. Otto Vašák: Essens (Hlohovec)
Otto Vašák has made history by becoming the first Czech chef recognized in The Best Chef Awards 2025. As a bright star in Czech gastronomy, his restaurant Essens epitomizes refined fine dining, driven by seasonal ingredients, skillfully crafted tasting menus, and a commitment to authentic methods.
Where to Go: Hlohovec lies in the midst of the Lednice–Valtice Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s the ideal setting for a day spent exploring vineyards and chateaux, culminating in an exquisite meal at Essens.
3. Tomáš Černý: Dejvická 34 (Praha)
Tomáš Černý has emerged as the winner of the Czech Golden Chef 2024 recognition. At his Prague eatery Dejvická 34, he offers a modern take on Czech cuisine without unnecessary fuss. Dining here, guests value the sincere approach and laid-back ambiance.
Where to Go: Dejvice is a popular Prague district brimming with cafés, green spaces, and situated close to Prague Castle. It’s an excellent spot for a culinary weekend, with opportunities for leisurely walks around Letná while sampling a different side of Prague.
4. Jan Punčochář: U Matěje (Praha)
The dynamic chef Jan Punčochář is not only a culinary expert but also a beloved figure on Czech television. His restaurant U Matěje merges warm, family-style service with top-notch culinary excellence. Over the years, he has demonstrated that exceptional cuisine can be both accessible and genuine.
Where to Go: Located in the historical district of Břevnov, this area features a monastery, a brewery, and a serene ambiance. After indulging at U Matěje, consider a stroll to Petřín Hill or the Hvězda game reserve.
5. Oldřich Sahajdák: La Degustation Bohême Bourgeoise (Praha)
Oldřich Sahajdák is a trailblazer in the realm of Czech fine dining and a holder of a Michelin star. His influence in the culinary scene is significant. At his prestigious restaurant, La Degustation Bohême Bourgeoise, he reinterprets the narrative of 19th-century Czech cuisine through a contemporary lens.
Where to Go: The enchanting atmosphere of Prague’s Old Town, located near the historic Jewish Quarter featured in Dan Brown’s novel The Secret of Secrets, invites exploration with its unique architecture and ambiance. Before or after your meal, take a leisurely stroll around Charles Bridge. It’s a perfect blend of culinary and cultural gratification!
6. Salabka: Petr Kunc (Praha)
Chef Petr Kunc from Salabka artfully blends contemporary culinary techniques with a strong focus on terroir. He is celebrated for his remarkable ability to harmonize flavor, color, and texture into cohesive dishes.
Where to Go: Troja, a picturesque area of Prague known for its vineyards, acclaimed zoo, and stunning Baroque chateau, offers a relaxing riverside experience along the Vltava. With Salabka located right above the vineyards, after enjoying your tasting menu, you can savor exquisite views of Prague while sipping on a glass of local wine.
7. Martin Štangl: Štangl (Praha)
Martin Štangl, a prominent figure in Prague’s gastronomic landscape, champions a modern interpretation of Czech cuisine at his restaurant Štangl. He embraces a philosophy centered on seasonality and locality, ensuring that each dish offers a memorable experience.
Where to Go: The vibrant districts of Smíchov and Anděl are full of stylish bars and cultural hotspots, situated near the picturesque banks of the Vltava River, making them ideal for a weekend urban food adventure.
8. Michal Göth: Miura (Čeladná)
At the helm of the Beskydy resort Miura, head chef Michal Göth proves that exceptional gastronomy flourishes beyond the capitals of Czechia. He draws on local ingredients to offer a modern twist on hearty Moravian-Silesian cuisine.
Where to Go: The picturesque Čeladná and the surrounding Beskydy Mountains present a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts, golfers, and wellness seekers. It is a perfect weekend retreat.
9. Radek Kašpárek: 420 Restaurant and Field (Praha)
A Michelin-star chef and the face behind Prague’s Field restaurant, Radek Kašpárek unveiled his latest venture, 420 Restaurant, in 2025. Situated in the historical Old Town Square, this venue boasts a stunning interior and an unwavering commitment to quality. His cuisine fuses bold, modern elements with traditional Czech recipes, reimagined with a creative flair.
Where to Go: These two renowned dining establishments are conveniently located in the heart of historic Prague, just a short stroll apart. 420 Restaurant is perfectly situated in Old Town Square, allowing for breathtaking views of the Prague Astronomical Clock and the elegant Gothic towers that surround it. After indulging in a delightful tasting menu, take a leisurely walk across Charles Bridge, along the Vltava, or through the charming Jewish Quarter Josefov. Nearby, at U Milosrdných 12, lies Field Restaurant.
10. Barbora Šimůnková: Leaf (Praha)
The newest addition to this esteemed list, Barbora Šimůnková is a rising star with tremendous promise. She has been honored with the “Young Talent of the Year” award from Gault&Millau. At her restaurant Leaf, she emphasizes plant-based dining and sustainability.
Where to Go: Located in the trendy district of Karlín, this area has emerged as a hub for modern gastronomy in Prague. Leaf is perfectly positioned among the vibrant cafés, bistros, and design shops, offering an ideal setting for a full day of enjoyment.
11. Miroslav Kubec: Obecní dům (Praha)
Since 2005, Miroslav Kubec has served as the President of the Association of Chefs and Confectioners of the Czech Republic. A long-time advocate for Czech culinary arts, he previously held the position of head chef at Prague’s InterContinental Hotel (now known as the Michelin Keys-awarded Fairmont Golden Prague) and has had the honor of preparing meals for notable figures including presidents George W. Bush, Barack Obama, Václav Havel, and even the legendary Rolling Stones.
Where to Go: Venture to the very heart of Prague. The Municipal House stands as one of the Art Nouveau masterpieces of Czechia.
12. Zdeněk Pohlreich: Café Imperial, Next Door by Imperial and Divinis (Praha)
Zdeněk Pohlreich is arguably the most renowned chef in the Czech Republic and a prominent television figure, often likened to the “Gordon Ramsay of Czech gastronomy” for his candid style and sharp wit. Based in Prague, he oversees three highly-regarded restaurants: Café Imperial, a sophisticated Art Nouveau Grand Café; Next Door by Imperial, a chic bistro directly across the street; and Divinis, an upscale Italian dining venue near Old Town Square that has received the Bib Gourmand accolade in the Michelin Guide.
Where to Go: Positioned in the heart of historic Prague, visiting any of these esteemed dining establishments allows you to explore many of Prague’s most exquisite landmarks, all within a short walking distance.
13. Pavel Drdel: Sůl a řepa (Strakonice)
Chef Pavel Drdel is the mastermind behind the renowned restaurant Sůl a řepa in Strakonice. His establishment has earned a reputation for intertwining gastronomy with the essence of nature. His culinary philosophy revolves around honoring traditional craftsmanship, utilizing each ingredient to its fullest potential — through methods such as pickling, drying, and fermenting, to ensure nothing goes to waste.
Where to Go: The iconic restaurant Sůl a řepa can be found in Strakonice, located in South Bohemia — a charming town celebrated for its castle, its rich bagpipe tradition, and the enchanting atmosphere of its historic center. After enjoying a memorable lunch or dinner, why not take a soothing walk along the picturesque River Otava?
