Warsaw Insider March 2024 #331

#331 Features:

Interview AI wizard, Jacek Jabłoński – p. 12

Photography: Urban Photographer Dorota Pankonin – p. 16

Interview: Artist Ivo Nikić – p. 52

Hidden Histury: Swiss Valley – p. 8

First

Newly Opened: Pizzaiola Pawilony

Event: Warsaw Beer Festival

Lunch Deal: La Bàn

Review: Sour Deli

Shop: Kosmogramy

Shop Chat: Rzeczownik

Studio Visit: Ivo Nikić

Intel

Guardians of the Rails

Two sleeping giants who stood idly alongside the railway line have been granted historic recognition.

FERROCONCRETE COAL BUNKER ul. Gniewkowska 42

Initiated by the 'Kamień i co' association, this structure has been entered into the register of immovable monuments of the Mazovian Voivodeship under the discerning eye of Professor Jakub Lewicki, the Mazovian Voivodeship Conservator of Monuments.

Coal bunkers like this one were commonplace during the 'steam era' of railways, serving as crucial infrastructure for refueling steam locomotives. What sets this particular bunker apart is its unique history dating back to the 1940s, when the United States provided Poland with advanced technical equipment for constructing highly efficient coal facilities.

Constructed in 1951 under the supervision of Mr. Szymczakowski, the Warsaw bunker represents a blend of innovative design and functional utility. Standing at 42 meters high with a container capacity of 300 tonnes, it is a tangible testament to the evolution of railway engineering and the industrial heritage of Poland.

Incorporating reinforced concrete construction, the bunker not only served practical purposes but also reflects the aesthetic sensibilities of its creators. Today, it stands as a symbol of past ingenuity and a valuable piece of Warsaw's architectural legacy.

SWITCH TOWER WARSZAWA WSCHODNIA

100 Chodakowska Street

Professor Jakub Lewicki, the Mazovian Voivodeship Conservator of Monuments, has made the decision to safeguard this vital piece of railway infrastructure, underscoring its historical and architectural significance.

Dating back to the completion of the new Warszawa Wschodnia railway station in the late 1960s, the signal box played a pivotal role in directing and supervising train traffic within the station. Designed by engineer Zygmunt Kęska, its construction reflects the modernist ethos of the era, blending form and function seamlessly.

Standing at 16.5 meters high, the switchyard boasts a distinctive cylindrical shape, elevated above ground level to optimize visibility for railway operators. Its functional layout remains intact, providing a glimpse into the operational dynamics of past railway systems.

As a testament to the era of post-war development in Warsaw, the signal box stands as a reminder of technological progress and architectural innovation. Its inclusion in the register of monuments signifies a commitment to preserving Poland's rich railway heritage for future generations.

Happy Birthday Chopin!

Celebrate Chopin's birthday March 1st by immersing yourself in Warsaw's musical heritage. Follow the trail of 15 interactive benches scattered across key sites in his life, from Radziwiłł Palace to the Czapski Palace. Don't miss the Visitation Church, where a young Chopin's passionate playing often drew attention. For an Insta-worthy experience, visit the mural at Górnośląska 8 or the epic statue in Łazienki Park's rose garden. Dive deeper at the Frédéric Chopin Museum, housed in the stunning Ostrogski Palace, for a sensory journey through his life and music.

Warsaw is to get its first ever timber office block…

Ambient, a studio specializing in sustainable architecture and wood technology, has revealed plans for a four-story wooden office building in the Poleczki Park office complex. With the relevant permit obtained, UBM Development Polska will oversee construction, focusing on minimizing environmental impact and energy consumption. The office will feature water retention facilities and photovoltaic panels, aiming to enhance human well-being. While Warsaw's first wooden office, it's not Ambient's debut; they previously constructed an award-winning library in Białołęka.

MURAL Permanent Status

Paulina Włostowska's captivating mural, first unveiled during the Old Town's birthday last year, is set to find its permanent place in the Museum of Warsaw in Old Town. Inspired by Wojciech Fangor's masterpiece "Forging Scythes," this mural beautifully portrays the overlooked contributions of women artists in post-war reconstruction. Titled "Cooperative of Painting Works," it pays homage to trailblazers like Krystyna Kozłowska and Zofia Czarnocka-Kowalska. Don't miss the chance to witness history preserved for generations to come!

PHOTOGRAPHS CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: PRESS MATERIAL, KEVIN DEMARIA, TOMASZ KACZOR

Krucza the focus of Urban Revival

While it was announced a few years ago that ulica Krucza will be transformed to resemble something of Barcelona's La Rambla, the city has just announced that a detailed plan is being completed. .Originally a socialist realist axis, Krucza's width caters to lanes and parking. The New Center of Warsaw initiative prioritizes pedestrian spaces, greenery, and public transport, promising a vibrant urban landscape.

Lighting Up Praga

In a project dubbed 'Praskie Rewolucje Reklamowe', numerous service shops along the Vistula's banks underwent a remarkable transformation, adorning their windows with stunning illuminated signs. Crafted by Ślusarnia Stalowa, these neon displays breathed new life into Praga's landscape, much to the delight of locals.

Something to Look Forward to

Get ready to be enchanted by Warsaw's spring bloom! With daisies, forget-me-nots, irises, and tulips among the 5 million flowers set to adorn the urban landscape, the city is gearing up for a floral extravaganza. President Rafał Trzaskowski assures that the city gardeners are diligently preparing to enhance the perennial plants with vibrant additions. From traditional favorites like pansies to nostalgic scented wallflowers, Warsaw's districts will be a riot of colors and scents. Thanks to innovative hybrid arrangements, seasonal flower displays will be both cost-effective and stunning. As the city blooms, Warsaw is set to become a haven of floral beauty, captivating residents and tourists alike.

CITY

Sidewalk

Sidewalk

Sidewalk

Sidewalk Parking Parking Parking

Parking Lanes Lane Lane Green Space

The Swiss Valley, known as Dolina Szwajcarska, lies nestled almost hidden within Warsaw's modernized city center, yet it holds a rich tapestry of history and cultural significance. Its story begins in 1825 when Stanisław Śleszyński, a Polish Army captain, transformed the land into a picturesque oasis. He embellished the area with a multi-storey palace and exquisite gardens adorned with Swiss-style gazebos, thus earning it the nickname Swiss Valley.

Over the years, the Swiss Valley evolved into a vibrant hub of entertainment, attracting

LEGACY OF SWISS VALLEY

Recognizing the rich history and cultural significance of Warsaw's Dolina Szwajcarska

renowned musicians such as Johann and Eduard Strauss, and Ignacy Paderewski. Its grand concert hall, the Salon Wielkiej Alei, hosted masquerade balls and symphonic concerts, drawing a diverse audience with its lively ambiance. Additionally, in the 1890s, an ice skating rink added to its allure, enticing enthusiasts and families during the winter months.

Despite changes in ownership and temporary diversions like the Salomonsky Summer Circus, the essence of the Swiss Valley

endured. However, the devastation of World War II left the valley in ruins until its resurrection in 1950 through meticulous planning and the addition of sculptures by Roman Łukijanow.

While the Mazovian Voivodeship Conservator of Monuments has recently included it in the register of monuments, it remains uncertain whether the city intends to revive creative and cultural activities reminiscent of its illustrious past or if it will persist solely as an unofficial dog park for the foreseeable future.

What's in for March...

The Plant Festival

Poland's largest plant event, returns to PGE Narodowy!

Experience a vibrant celebration of plants, offering something for everyone, from green enthusiasts to curious newcomers. Discover new species, collector's items, and fresh pot designs. Enjoy affordable prices, direct from growers, with quality surpassing supermarkets.

When: March 9-10

Where: PGE Narodowy

How Much: Free admission

Japanese Weekend

Experience the essence of Japan at the EXPO XXI center on March 16-17. Indulge in authentic Japanese cuisine like okonomiyaki and mochi, explore traditional arts and crafts, and enjoy live music and shows. From samurai armor to manga gadgets, there's something for every Japan enthusiast. Don't miss out on this unique event celebrating Japanese culture!

When: March 16-17

Where: EXPO XXI center

How Much: Reduced zł. 19.50, Normal zł. 26.00

Spring Start Half Marathon

Get ready for the Spring Start Half Marathon on March 24th, 2024, marking the vibrant beginning of the running season in Warsaw! Join thousands of enthusiastic runners as they take to the streets of the capital for this iconic event. The fast-paced race starts from the Poniatowski Bridge near the PGE Narodowy Stadium, leading runners across the picturesque Vistula River and through the heart of Warsaw's bustling streets. Cheer on the runners as they conquer the scenic route, passing landmarks like Marszałkowska, Królewska, and Krakowskie Przedmieście streets. The exhilarating journey concludes on the PGE Narodowy meadows, with runners sprinting towards the stadium to the finish line!

When: March 24 @ 11:00

Where: Poniatowski Bridge near PGE Narodowy Stadium

Warsaw Mineral Expo

Poland's premier jewelry and minerals fair returns again to the Palace of Culture and Science. Explore over 250 exhibitors showcasing stunning jewelry, unique minerals, and precious stones across 8,000 m². Delight in special exhibitions, interactive zones, and a gastronomy area.

When: March 2-3

Where: Palace of Culture and Science

How Much: Children under 6 enter free, concessions at PLN 20, normal at PLN 25, and family tickets at PLN 60.

K-pop sensation STAYC

The renowned K-pop sensation, STAYC, is scheduled to perform at Warsaw's Progresja as part of their inaugural world tour. Established under the banner of High Up Entertainment, STAYC made their debut with the double single "Star to a Young Culture" in 2020. Their musical endeavors are guided by the talented production duo, Black Eyed Pilseung, recognized for their collaborations with esteemed acts such as Twice and Apink. STAYC's discography includes four single albums and three EPs to date, with their latest release being "Teenfresh" in August 2023.

When: March 10 @ 19:00

Where: Progresja

How Much: zł. 340–820

04/03/2024

Piotr lemańczyk trio feat. Randy brecker (USA) Randy Brecker – trumpet; Rafał Sarnecki – guitar; Piotr Lemańczyk –bass; Adam Golicki – drums

10/03/2024

Marek Kądziela Jazz Ensemble

Marek Kądziela – guitar; Cyprian Baszyński – trumpet; Paweł Puszczało – double bass; Krzysztof Szmańda –drums

Poland Reimagined

Sometimes wry and thought-provoking, at other times light and amusing, Jacek Jabłoński’s AI images depicting Poland’s cultural touchstones have earned him a place in the pantheon of the country’s most talked about AI artists…

INTERVIEW BY ALEX WEBBER

Insider: What is your AI story – how did it all begin?

Jacek Jabłoński: In September 2022, I created AI images for the first time. The AI models available then were much simpler than the ones we have now, and the results were less photorealistic – they were more reminiscent of surrealistic images created by a student who had gone overboard on different substances! That said, those images had their charm. At that time, I thought it would take many years before algorithms capable of realistically imitating human creativity would emerge. I was wrong. In March 2023, pictures of Pope Francis in a flashy white puffy jacket went viral worldwide. This Pope heralded new AI models. Around that time, I started managing my sztuczna_polska Insta profile.

You’ve been featured on various media platforms, and your Insta account now has 60k followers – are you a little surprised by this? I’m surprised how quickly it gained popularity. There are several profiles dedicated to AI art, but I hope that mine is a little different. I wanted it to be more than just pretty pictures. Through many of my posts, I’ve tried to tell valuable stories that hopefully serve as social commentary. For example, last year there were news stories about kids being chauffeured to Holy Communion in limousines. I sought to parody that by depicting traditional communions with a blingy, gangster style.

Have there been many negative reactions to your work?

I remember one comment in particular. I

received it after the post about communions. It had been sent via private message and came from an older lady with a cheerful profile picture posing with a beautiful pink flower. There were some vulgarities in it, and she claimed that I was insulting Poland with my posts. Later, it turned out that she lives abroad and rarely visits our country.

You’ve covered some sensitive topics: for instance, the Warsaw Uprising, politics, and the church. When working with such subjects, do you treat them a bit differently?

I wanted to find topics that visually connect Poles – history, culture, politics, the church, but also our shared holidays on the Baltic Sea. These things are in our DNA. And I think each of these topics deserves individual commentary. I’ve never gone out to offend anyone with my work. Even if I create images of politicians I don't personally support, I try to make them look dignified.

There is a great variety in your work – do you have a favorite topic?

I like all projects related to the social life of Poles. I have created several series of graphics that satirically present how we spend our holidays, our experiences with winter, and even show our sex lives.

Do you have a personal favorite series of images, and if so, why do you love them?

My favorite series of images are the ones with restored photos from the Warsaw Uprising. I was born in Warsaw, and I absolutely love this city and its history. I tried to make the restored photos look like they were taken just a moment ago with a smartphone. I wasn't aiming for historically accurate recreation, but rather an interpretation that immediately makes us think of other places in the world where such an "Uprising" is happening right now.

Those that try fooling around with the free AI programs often find themselves absolutely addicted! How long do you typically spend creating images before you are happy with the result?

Creating AI images is indeed addictive. Mainly because you don't need advanced tools to generate interesting images. Everyone can have AI apps on their phones. You can create images while sitting on the bus to work or lying on a poolside lounger! Typically, it takes me several evenings to create one post.

Speaking of beginners, what are your tips for them…

I think the most important thing is to find an interesting topic. Most AI-generated images look very good, but they often lack context. Artificial intelligence needs a creative operator who understands cultural contexts.

In your opinion, what makes a good AI image? After seeing a good image, I should hear in my head: Wow, Haha, or Hmm. I like to feel these emotions when looking at every creative work (not just AI images).

What program(s) do you use?

I mainly work using Midjourney, StableDiffusion, and Photoshop's AI features. The best results can be achieved by combining work using all of these tools.

Have you noticed how fast AI is developing?

Yes! AI is developing very quickly. At this point, we've gotten somewhat used to this technological progress. AI-generated graphics surround us, we plan vacations using it, and we can buy products designed by AI in stores. I think there are many exciting solutions still ahead of us!

Should we be scared of AI?

I try to view the development of AI as an opportunity that provides new possibilities. Of course, it is a tool that can also be misused. A knife can be used to cut bread, but it can also harm someone. Thankfully, most people use it properly. One of the dangers of AI is that it can hallucinate without human intervention. Let me give you an example. A few days ago, I was looking for information about interesting events that took place in Poland 25 years ago. Chat GPT stubbornly claimed that in 1999, a man jumped from the Palace of Culture with a car. I searched the entire internet to find any information that could confirm this event. I found nothing. It was a hallucination. In this case, quite amusing and obvious, but imagine someone using AI to seek medical advice. At that point, it could be dangerous.

It's brilliant that you have focused on Polandand I think everyone who lives here can really relate to your images. Is there a reason you just decided to focus just on Poland rather than everything?

Poland fascinates me. We live in a country full of contrasts - it has a lot of beauty, but also kitsch and ugliness. By feeding Poland into AI, I establish a

“ AI de velopment offers exciting possibilities, but vigilance is crucial to prevent misuse...

connection with my country. I share my work on a profile with many followers, so it's also a way to understand the perspective of other people. I'm curious about how Poles view their country.

Finally, do you have some kind of routine when creating your work?

I challenged myself to create an interesting project with AI at least once every two weeks. I work full time in a large media corporation. I am also the father of a fantastic and very active 4-year-old daughter. My time for AI experiments is very limited. That's why I create mainly in the evenings and at night. I turn on a podcast or music and then transport myself to a Poland that exists in a different universe!

For more on Jacek, give him a follow at: instagram.com/sztuczna_polska

Capturing the Pulse of Warsaw

Dorota Pankonin

What initially attracted you to photography and how did you get started? Photography has always accompanied me though definitely to a lesser extent. Initially it was photos from trips, and for the past few years I have had my camera practically always with me. Whether it's a walk, a meeting or on the way to/from work. Showing the city through my eyes has allowed me to rediscover it and look at it from a different perspective.

An Interview with Urban Photographer

Can you describe your creative process when conceptualizing and executing a new project or photo shoot?

I don't do shoots professionally, yes I sometimes come up with a frame in my head and then try to realize it, but they are still typical urban shots, without setup and often by chance. It is simply a desire to capture the "life of the city", how it develops and changes.

What role does post-processing play in your work and how do you balance technical editing with maintaining the integrity of the photos?

I don't interfere heavily with the photos, I don't remove objects that theoretically don't fit or get in the way.I leave the city as it is. The processing for me is primarily to give the right atmosphere - the one that prevailed or the one that just happened to accompany me.

What is it about Warsaw that makes you love taking pictures?

I love Warsaw for the way it changes and for the fact that it "never sleeps." I love the skyscrapers that reflect the sun's rays during the day, while at night the lights from the offices illuminate the

Warsaw skyline. For the old tenements. For the contrasts. For the beaches along the Vistula River and the boulevards.In this city, there is something for everyone.

Can you share a memorable or difficult experience from one of your photo shoots?

I rather don't have any such, the biggest difficulty is probably the weather, but it too can often be used creatively.

For more of Dorota's work visit her instagram: instagram.com/dorota_pankonin

“ Showing the city through my eyes has allowed me to rediscover it and look at it from a different perspective

NORBLIN FACTORY

ul. Żelazna 51/53, fabrykanorblina.pl

COMMUNITY HUBS & FOOD HALLS

For a catch-all solution offering a variety of food, drinks and social experiences under one address, check out the following Warsaw legends…

F&B

CENTRUM PRASKIE KONESER

Pl. Konesera, koneser.eu

Warsaw’s largest food hall (23 food points and five bars!) has been intelligently designed so as to retain intimacy while never ceasing to remind visitors as to its diverse range of choices – the so-called ‘Asian district’ scores particularly highly. In standalone terms, top marks go to the elegant Piano Bar, the eclectic Uwaga craft beer haven, the swanky MOXO bar-club crossover, the Tex Mex of Blue Cactus and the newly-launched Middle Eastern emporium that is Amar Beirut. Finally, check into the Bio Bazar, a farmers’ market with a reputation that extends nationwide.

OVERVIEW

ELEKTROWNIA POWIŚLE

ul. Dobra 42, elektrowniapowisle.com

OVERVIEW

Reopened in 2018 as a mixed-use project containing cultural sites, F&B outlets, A Class offices and loft-style apartments, no other investment has had a bigger impact on Praga’s overdue regeneration than Koneser. Culturally, it’s also done much thanks to the Polish Vodka Museum, the Museum of Fantastic Art and temporary exhibitions such as Banksy in 2021. For most though, the F&B lineup is the strongest attraction of all and this includes upmarket Indian from Bombaj Malasa, the casual eatery Spółdzielnia and the real feather in the cap, the Koneser Grill – a meat-centric venue of high sophistication.

JOIN THE CLUB

Debuting in February, frequent visitors can now register to join the Norblin Factory Club, an app that will give members access to exclusive offers, promotions and discounts. Free to download, it’s been designed with guests, tenants and suppliers in mind.

Initially completed in 1904 to serve as Warsaw’s primary source of electricity, Elektrownia’s blended approach includes an exclusive top floor beauty hall filled with cutting edge beauty solutions and a retail offer than tends to shirk the mainstream to instead slant in on contemporary Polish design, upscale vintage, niche brands and established local talent. The food and drink has also been a major plus, with most attention going to a food hall that appears in an energetic sea of neon.

WARS SAWA JUNIOR

Marszałkowska 104/122, warssawajunior.pl

OVERVIEW

Standing all but in the shadow of the Palace of Culture, WARS SAWA JUNIOR cuts a familiar sight to all. Conveniently connected by tram, bus, metro and even bicycle and scooter, today it presents the slick and shining face of modern Warsaw. But then, WARS SAWA JUNIOR has always been at the forefront of Warsaw retail. Opened as one of the first shopping centres in Poland, to this day it enjoys unflagging popularity thanks to the largest adidas store in the country as well as the only Uniqlo. Other brands and stores present include Mango, Rituals, Zara, TK Maxx and H&M.

BROWARY WARSZAWSKIE

Grzybowska 58, browarywarszawskie.com.pl

OVERVIEW

Utilising elements of a historic brewery and setting them against an upmarket backdrop of freshly mapped streets and immaculate new build that feels contextually suited to the district, Features include a premium food hall, Robert Lewandowski’s Nine’s sports bar, the ever-popular Balkan eatery Munja, and Baila – a stunning live entertainment emporium. But our favourite enclave of all? The flagship brewpub known as Browar Warszawski.

HALA KOSZYKI

ul. Koszykowa 63, koszyki.com

OVERVIEW

Koszykowa 63, koszyki.comConsidered the grande dame of food halls, the brick and wrought iron interiors of this spot look beautiful with the F&B offer split between standalone restaurants such as the fancy Warszawski Sen to vendors like the fist-bumping, burrito boys at Gringo. For craft beer and grilled sausages then Kiełba w Gębie don’t put a foot wrong, whilst the openall-hours ĆMA is a legend in its own lifetime.

FABRYKA NORBLINA Żelazna 51/53

OVERVIEW

Opened on the site of a former metal factory, the scale of Norblin takes a while to sink in. A beautiful combination of new and old, it’s a photogenic example of everything that makes modern Warsaw so captivating. Representing 200-years of history, the two hectare site is riddled with over 50 leftovers from the Industrial Revolution and these are set against attractions such as the luxury Kinogram cinema (champagne vending machines!), the immersive Art Box Experience, the only Apple Museum in the country (as in the tech brand, not the fruit), a factory museum and the Smart Kids Planet – a 1,600 sq/m project with nine zones that aim to promote logical thinking, healthy eating, motor functions, perception and creative thinking.

First Sip

INTERIORS:

Crafted by the award winning architecture and design studio, mode:lina boasts a unique ambiance. Brać proudly stocks exclusively Polish wines, a pioneering concept for Warsaw.It is the the perfect place for meet up or to bring friends as the night begins to buzz on their doorstep.

WHAT WE DRANK:

A 2022 vintage orange wine from Poland's Saint Vincent Vineyard, blending Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer, and Muscat grapes. This delicately crafted wine offers a palate of subtle tea and spice notes, harmoniously complemented by hints of nutmeg, rose, and quince. Fermented in steel tanks, it boasts a gentle 11.0% alcohol level, perfect for relaxed enjoyment. BRAĆ polskie wina, Zgoda 3

Our menu is like a diary of the seasonal journey we want to take you on.

We invite you to taste the menu consisting of dishes based on regional ingredients.

Our advantage is also a fantastic offer of the best domestic steaks (from our farm in Masuria) and imported (Japan, Australia, Chile, USA).

In addition, we offer our guests an intimate room for business meetings.

MISIA ZESŁAWSKA

Recently Opened

LOCATION, LOCATION

Pizza visionaries, Pizzaiola, open up a new spot in the city center

The masters of Neapolitan pizza have opened up a new venture in the labyrinth of debauchery, AKA the pavilions of Nowy Świat. It's a perfect spot for when the weather gets warmer, and we anticipate it being a hit, transforming the area with a steady stream of foodies to mingle with the menagerie of drunken college students.

The menu is the same as their Krucza location, but this joint is more bar-like with self-service –meaning no waiter and you get a buzzer when your order is ready for pickup. Options where to eat are downstairs with tables, bellying up to the bar to chat with the pizzaiola, or to take away into the maddening crowd.

Pizzaiola Pawilony Nowy Świat 22/28a

Beer Festival

TIME TELLS A STORY

As the Warsaw Beer Festival celebrates its tenth year, founder Paweł Leszczyński looks back at a decade of memories –both good and bad!

BY ALEX WEBBER

Remem-BEER The First Time?

The festival’s first edition provided a steep learning curve for all involved. “We knew nothing,” says Paweł. It wasn’t long before all hands were to the pump – unfortunately, not just the beer pumps. Through the chaos, long-term relationships were born, not least with the security providers. “We pretty much picked the only firm that didn’t respond with an auto-message,” laughs Paweł. “Their own guards didn’t really know what to expect and you could see that they were starting to grow edgy the more people drank –as if expecting trouble.” Trouble, of course, never came. “It was just about the most peaceful, good-humoured day you could imagine,” says Paweł. Sixmonths later, when the move to Legia was made, the agency was picked independently by Legia to provide security. “It’s great that they wanted to be part of it,” says Paweł, “and we’ve been working with them ever since.”

Home Sweet Home

“A beer festival is defined by its venue,” says Paweł, “and I can’t

Paweł Leszczyński officiating the first Warsaw Beer Festival, October 2014

imagine there’s a better place in which to hold the Warsaw Beer Festival than the Legia stadium.” That the home of Poland’s biggest football team has become irrevocably linked with the beer festival can be attributed to fate – a natural alignment of the stars. “We were just two months away from the second beer festival when the venue cancelled on us,” says Paweł. “With most of the breweries in place and lots of tickets already sold, this was beyond a catastrophe.”

Finding a back-up venue proved a challenge. “We were getting desperate,” admits Paweł. Just as panic was beginning to take grip, Legia came riding to the rescue. “They actually contacted us,” says Paweł. “Partially, I think they wanted to show that they could handle an event like this, and the arrangement I think has since proved beneficial to both parties – they saved the second edition of the Warsaw Beer Festival, but at the same time they were able to show to other event organisers what they were capable of.” Fully geared to dealing with large crowds, Legia’s ground has proved the ideal partner to the extent that it is inconceivable to think of the event being held elsewhere.

Beer Mine Forever

Romance has flourished at the beer festival, with the event inadvertently matching up couples since the very beginning. “It’s very special to see couples that met because of us returning, some now with children,” says Paweł. “The beer festival has become part of their lives so that feels so special.” Some moments, though, have been deeply poignant. “One couple had their first date at the beer festival,” recalls Paweł. “During a different edition we learned that the guy was going to propose so we organised a photographer and a special spot. It was a unique moment made all the more so for the fact that she was suffering from cancer at the time. Unfortunately, she later lost this battle. It’s very moving when I think of this, but it really emphasizes I hope that it’s the people that have made this event what it is. It’s about more than beer, it’s about human connection.”

Super Fans!

“When I was co-organising the first festival I remember meeting an English couple and telling them about this in the pub I was working at,” says Paweł. “A couple of months later it was great to see them at the beer festival. In fact, they’ve been to almost all since and it’s become customary to take a picture with them.” Fans, though, have come from far and wide, a point that has necessitated the inclusion of a map allowing visitors to mark the country they hail from. “Would you believe it,” says Paweł, “we had people from Japan over and it was the one time we’d somehow not included this nation on the map!”

Beer Festival

The Style Councillor

Visible from outer space, it’s hard to miss Paweł – he’ll be the guy wearing the weirdest jacket this side of Mars. “I’ve got two jackets that I wear for the festival,” he says, “one of which I first wore to a post-Apocalyptic festival. My girlfriend and I made some additions to it in spray paint.” And the second one? “That’s from a brand called Wasted Couture,” answers Paweł. Influenced by Mad Max / steampunk aesthetics, they’ve outfitted Jerzy Oswiak for the finale of the WOŚP annual fundraiser, and the cult band Nocny Kochanek. “One time I was travelling somewhere to adjudicate on a beer panel and I arrived to the hotel late absolutely exhausted from the journey,” says Paweł. “The next day at breakfast I saw a bunch of guys wearing the same kind of outfits as me so assumed they were part of the event as well and sat down with them. After a few minutes I realised I didn’t recognise them so got up to leave. A friend of mine came up to me and said, ‘Wow, how come you know the guys from Nocny Kochanek!’”.

When Disaster Strikes

What doesn’t kill you, makes you stronger. From exploding beer barrels to broken toilets, Paweł and his crew have learned to respond fast to calamity. “As much as you plan, still things go wrong,” he says. “One year I ordered the wristbands that are absolutely essential to the festival, only I realised with days left that the payment had never left. I was able to find someone at the last moment but then realised, with the clock ticking, that again the payment hadn’t left. Fortunately, the firm had already started production regardless.” Mistakes happen, shrugs Paweł. “You make stupid mistakes all the time – on another occasion, we produced loads of kidney bags that were printed with the initials of another festival entirely: WPF instead of WFP. What could we do? Just laugh! And on the bright side, they sold out fast!”

Don’t Mention Covid

Cancelling his entire event two weeks before it was scheduled to go ahead remains one of Paweł’s lowest points. “We lost a lot,” he says, “but the brewers that had been booked responded really well and showed great understanding. In fact, the whole beer industry rallied around each other.” The pandemic’s retreat, however, was not without problems. “Holding a beer festival for the first time after an 18-month break was really challenging,” says Paweł. “Before things were starting to run like clockwork, but it’s amazing how quickly you can forget the easiest of solutions. It was like starting from scratch again, so that first festival ‘back’ was actually the hardest.”

Lost & Found

If you’re going to lose your phone, do the decent thing and make sure the alarm isn’t set to ring every five minutes. “That

happened once with a phone we found,” rues Paweł. “I took it home with me and charged it in case one of the owner’s friends rang through – unfortunately, it turned out that the owner had set the alarm to ring every few minutes between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m. It had been locked with such sophistication that I couldn’t get it to stop buzzing – no matter where I put it in my flat, or under what, I’d still hear it beeping.”

Parallel Growth

Established just as Poland’s own craft sector was taking its first baby steps, the Warsaw Beer Festival has grown in parallel. “There was one brewery then that’s subsequently become one of the most prominent in Poland that was using a cistern for their brewing vessel,” says Paweł. “It’s amazing to see how some of these have grown. I remember when friends and I would visit foreign festivals and see how far we were behind the Americans or Danes in terms of knowledge, equipment and investment, so it’s extraordinary to see that in the space of the decade several of our breweries are now up there with the best. The rest of the world has taken notice of Poland, and that’s not just down to a handful of people, but a whole crowd of brewers. We’ve gone from zero to hero!”

For The Greater Good

“Things really started to click after Festival No. 14,” says Paweł. “By then, we already knew we had the best beers so were able to concentrate on other things to create a wider more inclusive experience – something that went beyond just catering to beer fans.” Along the way, that’s meant a concerted effort to engage in charitable activities. “We’ve previously worked with the Rak’n’Roll cancer foundation,” says Paweł, “and aside from that we work with disability foundations as well as trying to teach people to drink responsibly. We want to use our popularity to make a difference.”

BLOCK THE DATE

What: 17th Warsaw Beer Festival

Where: Legia Stadium (Łazienkowska 3)

When: March 21st to March 23rd

Web: warsawbeerfestival.com

Tickets: available online from PLN 25 (single-day pass) to PLN 45 (three-day). Premium and super premium packages also available from PLN 90.

Lunch Deal

LA BAN

A tasty gem hidden away on Krucza

There are not too many restaurants in the city center where you can get such quality and quantity for lunch under zł. 30, especially dishes that are good enough to make you go back again. Enter La Bàn. With two staple dishes on their lunch menu and a rotation of six to seven other dishes, they make it easy to decide which is

your new favorite lunch spot.

For the first time visiting La Bàn, I would suggest trying their Pho Bò Chín Bò Chín means ‘cooked beef,’ and "pho" actually comes from the French word "feu," meaning fire, and is pronounced like the beginning of the English curse F**k. This Vietnamese soup originates from Northern Vietnam, and La Bàn does it right. Hearty and aromat-

ic, their base of beef broth has the traditional tastes of charred onion, ginger, and spices like star anise, cinnamon, and cloves. Topped with a variety of fresh herbs and vegetables like basil, cilantro, fresh onions, ginger, lime wedges, and sliced chili peppers, the combination of freshness brings a burst of flavor, balancing the richness of the broth. Served with a side of Nem Thit (saigonki) done with traditional expertise of crunchy and soft textures, you will ask yourself how many times will I get into trouble at work if I leave early to have their lunch before it ends at 16:00?

La Bàn

ul. Krucza 6/14

SOUR DELI DELIGHTS

This will be your new go-to restaurant on the east side of the river...

BY KEVIN DEMARIA

LOCATION

Whether you are from the outskirts of Warsaw or just visiting the city for the first time, this triangular slice of old Praga, nestled between Warszawa Wschodnia and Skaryszewski Park, feels like you are visiting another European city. You can wander the streets, observing remnants of different decades of architecture, or engage in some urban exploration at the closed Orzeł cycling track, which once hosted the 1985 Polish cycling championships. I would recommend to friends starting their exploration with a visit to the Neon Museum to see the illuminated neon relics of times gone by, followed by dinner or brunch at Sour Deli.

WHAT WE ATE

A simple survey of a recent visit to Sour Deli included a diverse tasting from their menu, which offers something for everyone. The dishes all embody a certain cherry-picked bistro trend, executed well and fresh, with their flavors hitting the spot. There is beauty in diversity, one might say, almost like a Rubik's Cube of European tastes. From simple dishes like the Scandinavian-influenced gravlax to more clean ones like leeks and Labneh (a soft Middle Eastern cheese made from strained yogurt), which is one of the best small plates I have tried on the east side of the river. Or my personal favorite, the savory delight of smashed potatoes with shredded, mouthwatering braised beef birria, pecorino, lime, guacamole & pico de gallo, cilantro, and pickled onions. My soup-loving friend, who chose the barszcz Ukraiński, remarked

KEVIN DEMARIA

“

There is beauty in diversity, one might say, almost like a Rubik's Cube of European tastes...

happily after the first spoonful, "This tastes like it was made with love by a Ukrainian babcia." I was not aware of the trending food craze for sernik baskijski (Basque cheesecake), but after stealing a taste, since I had already devoured my raspberry and chocolate ptyś (puff pastry), I understand why this cheesecake, with its creamy interior and slightly salty cheese filling, drives people crazy.

TAKEAWAY

While there are many memorable moments from conversations leaving Sour Deli as we wandered around the neighborhood, two important things

stand out. Firstly, their non-alcoholic beverages were exciting and unexpected, like the matcha and orange juice, and secondly, the servers were genuine and pleasant, almost worthy of a monument in the city center. This led me to conclude that the owners have a sensitivity to what a real pleasant dining experience entails, down to the details of offering a wide variety of traditional cuisines, selecting the right staff, and even curating the music soundtrack for dining. That being said, I would be remiss not to mention the biggest takeaway from Sour Deli: their sourdough bread for breakfast the next morning.

The Buzz

Presenting the city’s most talked about venues, join us on a whistle stop tour of the cafes, pubs and cocktail dens and wine bars that you can’t afford to miss…

WINE & DINE

Kontakt

Sandomierska 13

Weaknesses do not exist in Kontakt, and if they do, they have yet to be formally identified by any who visit. Looking glorious in its deep shades of blue, its look is complemented by a 400-strong wine list slanted towards natural, bio-dynamic and organic wines. The five-star experience is aided by wonderful food.

LOCAL WINES

Brać

Zgoda 3 & Sierakowskiego 4A

INSIDER FAVORITE

El Cafetero

Marszałkowska 27/35

Tucked behind the patinated domes and intricate steeples of Zbawiciela, chilling in this little café has you thinking you’re somewhere cute and quaint like Vilnius or Lublin. Specialising in roasting their own African coffees, the super-hip vibe is highlighted by the wall of Polaroid snaps.

Resistant as traditionalists may be to the very notion of Polish wine, Brać have made it their mission to showcase its unknown quality. Presenting on-edge sips from niche domestic producers (including collabs with the Funky Fluid craft brewery!), all this is done in a stylish space that feels good to be in. From 2023, this was our favourite wine-related find!

NATURAL WINE

Rascal

Moliera 6

Formerly a canteen for ballet dancers, this address now holds the largest bar in Europe specialising in natural wines – you weren’t expecting that! Entered past a lavish drape, this cool space has a suitably adventurous choice of rebel wines.

BEER GEEKS

Jabeerwocky

Nowogrodzka 12

Good old Jabbers will never let you down. A Warsaw institution, the adventurous choice of beers gives nods to international pioneers, domestic talents as well as

their own house beers. Prewar floors and the welcome smell of spillage give it a great atmosphere that becomes a boisterous babble of international voices the later it gets. For something quieter, take your pint next door to their sister bar, Jabeerwocky Junior.

THE HEART OF POLSKI CRAFT

Kufle i Kapsle

Nowogrodzka 25

Respectful of the building’s pre-war heritage, the brick interiors are thick with noise, clamour and the reassuring smells of last year’s party. On colder nights, make your way to the back to discover an intimate space sprinkled with vintage armchairs and wonky old lamps set at a natural tilt. The beers are among the most radical in Warsaw.

CUTTING EDGE CRAFT

Hopito Chmielna

Chmielna 24

Opened last year as the younger sister of Hopito’s Żurawia venture, this branch feels a little more mature in its target audience, though every bit as fun in its beer selection - radicalized drinkers will love Hopito’s own crazy brews.

OLD TOWN PINTS

Same Krafty & Same Krafty Vis-à-vis

Nowomiejska 10

Jammed between the Barbican gateway and the Rynek, Same Krafty’s pair of Old Town drinkeries face opposite each other to offer their own mini-pub crawl. Appearing as raucous and rugged tavern-like bars, the experimental craft beers are a league ahead of the mainstream fizz peddled by

the other nearby bars.

FRIDAY HIT

Grace Drink Bar

Krucza 16/22

Named in honour of Grace Jones, the choice of hero says much about a place that devotes itself to celebrating the glam excess of 80s New York. Rooms include one that’s all bordello style colours and velvety finishes, and another that’s high on plush purple, glass and mirrors. Fuelling the party, are classic cocktails, kamikaze shots and kitschy yesteryear hits.

CREATIVE COCKTAILS

Ave Pegaz

Piłsudskiego 9

Inside a lively interior that doesn’t take itself too seriously (check the ‘ceiling garden’), swivel about to gawk at a mighty collection of corkscrews and drinking implements. In this alchemist’s workshop find yourself enjoying some of the most creative cocktails in Warsaw.

COCKTAIL PORN VHS

Poznańska 7

The shoebox sized VHS pays tribute to the 80s and 90s and is a model for good times –boasting a flamingo and pictures of Mr T., the toilet says it all. The drinks are among the wackiest in Warsaw, and they’re as fun to drink as they are to photograph.

RETRO HIP

Paloma Inn

Poznańska 21

Inspired by The Jetsons, the moon landings and the atom, Paloma Inn is a groovy blast of lunar lines, pea green colour tones and furnishings and fittings that are retro-fu-

turistic. The experience is compounded by easy listening muzak, 70s menu faves like fondue and mega fun cocktails.

THE ATMOSPHERE

Beirut & Kraken

Poznańska 12

Somewhere, amid all the junk relating to the Lebanese conflict (sandbags, ammo boxes…), you’ll find the spirit of Poznańska contained within this long, skinny bar. As fashionable now as it was when it opened, finish the evening in their connecting venture, the Pirates of the Caribbean-style Kraken. Evenings dissolve into a wild, happy whirl of international voices.

INSIDER CLASSIC

Pardon To Tu

Al. Armii Ludowej 14

Despite the upgrade in surrounds, they’ve retained the leftfield spirit of their old haunt thanks to flexi hours, a commitment to obscure sounds, and a well-spaced interior that references their former venue through its decadent colour scheme and wall of favoured musicians. The air of friendly, unforced cool is unmatched!

FOR THE MUSIC

Młodsza Siostra

Dobra 14/16

Known for his ear for upcoming talent, the owner Michał isn’t averse to taking risks in order to broaden Warsaw’s musical palate. The scrappy backdrop of bike repair garages give a vibe redolent of the shadowy courtyards of Berlin and Budapest, whilst inside it’s all creaking floorboards, mismatched furnishings and a clientele sourced from the local Academy of Fine Arts.

The Buzz

REBEL SOUNDS

Chmury / Hydrozagadka

11 Listopada 22

Set in a fleapit courtyard, it’s hard to tell where one begins and the other ends, but both are spiritually cojoined by a devotion to eclectic live music. Tight and crowded, it’s a place where audience and band become one, feeding off each other to generate an electrifying atmosphere.

A BIT OF EVERYTHING

Foton

Wilcza 9A

You know it’s been an epic weekend when you wake up on Monday knowing that Foton was involved. Conversation with strangers is natural after a few of Foton’s cocktails, and these are enjoyed to a cool backdrop made up of fleet of tumbling plants perched on steel-framed irrigational contraptions.

CULT BAR

Gemba

Chmielna 21

Adopting a loose-fitting PRL style, interiors include wood-paneled walls decorated with pics of Pope JPII, sporting pennants and framed artworks from the heyday of the Polish School of Poster. Tricked out with retro wallpaper, the perches by the bar are the most sought, but spillover seating can also be found in a winter garden enclosed by green and scarlet drapes – very David Lynch. Drinks include a broad-minded selection of craft beers, house cocktails and shots.

PRE-CLUB DRINKS

Bar Pacyfik

Hoża 61

Based upon the kind of Tijuana dive bar you’d have

happened upon during the Miami Vice era, Pacyfik is all candy floss pink and shades of teal: a raw-looking den that looks purposefully imperfect. Keeping the hip international crowd on the wrong side of drunk are kick-ass cocktails!

LATE NIGHTER

Republica San Escobar

Poznańska 7

Lacking airs and graces, it’s a place where fun rules the roost. Tiny in size, find an interior filled with corrugated iron sheets, zappy neons, chunky woods and bike pedals on the footrests. The fun-loving spirits is irresistible, and the tight dimensions mean the party often spills onto the terrace outside.

ESSENTIAL CHECK-IN

Fabryka Norblina

Żelazna 51/53

Without fail, the big winner of 2023 was Norblin – hell, we even saw Kieran Culkin walking through over summer! In terms of nightlife, winners include the elite MOXO and the craft-minded Uwaga. Packed in the evening, the atmosphere is squared out perfectly by the live music that frequently escapes from the Piano Bar. The Insider fave though remains Piano Bar, a place with fancy cocktails, a 12-foot chandelier and a crowd that errs from late 20s upwards.

STUDENT CARNAGE

Nowy Świat ‘Pavilions’

Nowy Świat 26

For the highest condensation of bars in the capital head to ‘the pavilions’, a collection of ramshackle drinking cabins, shot bars and sheesha lairs inside a tight grid of shadowy back alleys. Adding to the

gentle sense of confusion comes the realisation that so many bars look the same – accessed through clattery, barred doors, visitors walk into murk and chaos.

LIVE SPORTS

Shamrock Sports Bar

Krucza 51

At long last, Warsaw has the sports bar it deserves. Zapping in football, rugby and suchlike from around the world (but mainly Britain), this Irish-run spot is an offshoot of the atmospheric Shamrock Irish Pub on Zgoda. Though a lot smarter than its sister, the raucous sense of fun has carried over – as has the quality Guinness.

ALT. ENTERTAINMENT Worek

Kości

Bagatela 10

There is nothing ordinary about Worek Kości and that’s underlined by its collection of 400 replica skulls. Known for its burlesque nights, this passionate celebration of the beautiful and bizarre also has a busy roster of lectures dedicated to criminal profiling, forensics and serial killers. Oh, and the cocktails are good.

THE PRAGA VIBE

W Oparach W Absurdu

Ząbkowska 6

Craft beers lurk within the fridge, but for the seminal Absurdu experience order a tray of vodka before bulldozing through the crowds that gather to listen to Balkan rock and Afro-Latin bands. Somewhere, hidden deep beneath the creaking antiques and moth-eaten Persian rugs, you might be lucky to find a wood-carved bar.

NORTHERN NIGHTS

Havana

Słowackiego 16/18

Set on the first floor of a PRL era tower, the super cool interior offers up a coherent display of retro posters, luscious plants and light wood trimmings that are respectful of this space’s former life as a 1960s cafe. Perched among hip freelancers and theatre types learning their lines, sip away on trendy bio wines, adventurous lemonades, craft swigs or specialty coffee sourced from local roasters.

CLUB OF THE YEAR

K-Bar Powiśle

Leona Kruczkowskiego

Providing an alternative to the usual Smolna / Luzztro / Jasna 1 scene, the location inside one of the pillars that prop up Poniatowskiego Bridge lends an ‘in the know’ frisson of adventure to your evening. Small, sweaty, raw and intimate, the industrial-style vibe is offset against oriental lanterns and the occasional Korean flag. Music-wise, and evenings promise everything from Italo-rave to techno trance.

UPMARKET CLUBBING

Sen

Wioślarska 6

Some would say that Sen enjoys its heyday in the summer when the rooftop terrace opens to afford views of the illuminated bridges that span the river. But even outside these months it’s long enjoyed a reputation as Warsaw’s premier super-lux club. High class cocktails and a stringent door policy have helped maintain their name as the principal destination for glam, catwalk excess.

SHOW TIME!

Chaton

Foksal 19

Chaton is where the celebs and top-earners gather to enjoy world class stage performers prance about whilst revelling in the bosom of refined luxury.

EXPERIMENTAL COFFEE

Cophi

Hoża 58/60

Owner Uri Wollner is one of the great coffee influencers of Poland, and his seasonally changing menu includes such winners as Aperol espresso in summer and spiced pumpkin latte in the autumn and winter. This passion project is best appreciated if you can snag one of the few armchairs in this tiny locale.

COFFEE & CAKE

Tonka

Karmelicka 16

Looking onto the glorious glass cube that is the POLIN museum, Tonka’s crystal white minimalism rules with the monotone palette given punch by subtle zaps of greenery. The coffee –sourced from the likes of HAYB – is excellent but tastes even better when tested alongside Tonka’s ever-changing line-up of mind-blowing cakes.

COFFEE OF LEGEND

Stor

Tamka 33 / Bracka 18

For many there is no better café anywhere in Poland than Stor’s original on Tamka. When the sunlight slopes in through the window, there are few finer feelings than idling away in this plant festooned refuge. Famed for their glorious coffee

and detail-driven approach, recognition should also be handed to their devotion to local causes and zero waste philosophy.

FOR VINYL CHILLOUT

Hałas

Elsterska 10

Divide Hałas into two sections: first, a small chamber selling collectors classic vinyl and coffee sourced from some of Europe’s top roasters. Then, smuggled in the back, discover a Nordic-style living room arrangement that encourages afternoons spent sipping coffee whilst catching up on email.

FOR QUICK ESPRESSO

Błysk

Słowackiego 22

Served over a PRL era counter, Błysk’s super-tight confines generate a natural air of familiarity. Often standing room only, the buzz and hubbub owes itself not just to the delicious espresso shots, but also the homemade cookies and dog-loving owners that will spoil your pet.

DESTINATION COFFEE

Café Pląs

Puławska 113A (Królikarnia) There’s two rooms to speak of, and both impress with their tall windows, high ceilings and vintage 60s design. Set inside the Króliarnia palace, it’s laidback and artsy-cool, something aided by the strategically placed plants, chillout beats and rare-find art books placed reverentially on the shelves. Specialty coffee, bio wines, alternative soft drinks and craft beer make it a highly versatile place to finish in after a brisk autumn walk around the palace grounds.

Dine & Delight

When only the best will do, we’ve cut through the chaff to present a curated choice of Warsaw’s top eateries –from ethnic comfort foods and under-the-radar gems all the way up to the city’s most exclusive dining rooms…

THE MICHELIN STAR

Nuta

Pl. Trzech Krzyży 10/14

Andrea Camastra’s restaurant is a magical enclave in which time stands still. Mixing his famed scientific techniques with artisanal processes, his tasting menu is expressive in its aesthetics and flavour, as if it were an extension of his own firecracker character. Even the cheeseboard is a mind-bender – on our April visit, jaws hit the floor as this arrived in the liquified form of a pear consommé topped with warm gorgonzola foam. A bold, world-class adventure, no other restaurant offers such a ride – a second Michelin star seems guaranteed.

MODERN POLISH

Źródło

Targowa 81

Hardwood floors, exposed pipes and a flurry of plants equip an open area decorated with blasts of contemporary art, recycled furnishings and extravagant light installations. Menu-wise, the food lights the soul. But more than just celebrating the power of local produce, there’s a refinement at play that speaks of a kitchen team that aims for magnificence.

FORMAL & EXTRAORDINARY Epoka

Ossolińskich 3

Nineteenth century cornices and baroque drapes lend an enveloping sense of luxury to this A-Class space. Epoka’s menu is based on Polish cookbooks from different epochs, with the dishes reconstructed in a way that’s innovative, unexpected and a roller coaster of thrills. La Liste officially rank it among the world’s Top 100 Restaurants.

EXQUISITE

Nolita

Wilcza 46

Winning our 2022 award last year for ‘Outstanding Achievement’, chef Jacek Grochowina’s enclave of class looks dashing with its monochrome colours and muted gunmetal shades, but it’s the food that has made it the place Warsaw heads to live the life of the 1%. Treasuring detail and finesse, Nolita demonstrates fine dining hasn’t died.

ECLECTIC & UPMARKET

Dyletanci

Koszykowa 47

Subtle and stylish with its muted, neutral colours and pops of art, amid the light woods and sky-coloured walls, the assembled fine wines have been selected to dance in tandem with the cooking of Rafał Hreczaniuk. His cooking is elegant, eclectic and never short on sensational taste.

FOR THE TASTING MENU

Rozbrat 20

Rozbrat 20

Fusing upmarket, casual styling with an exciting wine list, interactive service and the kind of atmosphere you can’t get enough of, Rozbrat 20 is a Warsaw gastro landmark. Under chef Bartosz Szymczak, the frequently changing menu has a real playful inventiveness to it.

DATE NIGHT

Ale Wino

Mokotowska 48

Regularly adjusted to utilize the best items the season has to offer, the menu is a triumph of expertly balanced tastes and is admired for some of the most interesting cooking in the city – think elegant with a localized twist. Rounding out the experience is an intimate, labyrinthine design that’s ideal for when it’s cold and grim, and a decked courtyard terrace for when it’s not.

NEW WAVE

hub.praga

Jagiellońska 22

Heading the kitchen is Witek Iwański, a chef whose past accolades include our very own ‘Top Talent’ title at our Best of Warsaw awards. The tan, beige and white interior is embellished with moon-shaped mirrors and statement art, and is twinned

with tiny a’la carte courses that appear like miniaturised works of art.

CASUAL SCENE

Bibenda

Nowogrodzka 10

With no reservations accepted, Bibenda’s enduring popularity ensures that queues often build at the entrance – even at the height of the Polish winter. Augmenting the warm interiors of raw red brick and dim yellow lighting, guests flock for a menu that celebrates the fields, forests and farmsteads of Poland. Though not strictly vegetarian, meat is a rare find with the focus now shifted on eclectic combinations of freshly plucked goodies – e.g. crispy mushrooms and scallions with fermented garlic chili honey and peanut chili crisps.

THE NEED TO KNOW

The Eatery

Koszykowa 49A

This attractive off-street space comes swathed in white-onwhite colours – blissfully cocooned from the outside world, and decorated orb-like installations, this chic but casual space gives Polish food a modernised translation. Visiting for our May issue, we were bowled over by the pork cheeks served with a punchy demi-glace and whirls of liquified peas and red cabbage.

NEW POLISH

Źródło

Targowa 81

Hardwood floors, exposed pipes and a flurry of plants equip an open area decorated with blasts of contemporary art, recycled furnishings and extravagant light installations. Menu-wise, the food lights the soul. But more than just celebrating the power of local produce, there’s a refinement at play that speaks

of a kitchen team that aims for magnificence.

POLAND REIMAGINED

Bez Gwiazdek

Wiślana 8

Regarded as one of Warsaw’s gastronomic treasures, each month sees Robert Trzópek design a tasting menu inspired by a specific region of Poland. His creative interpretations of the nation’s culinary traditions are delicate, nuanced and beautifully balanced. The chic but casual setting reflects the philosophy.

POLISH SLOW FOOD

Zielony Niedźwiedź

Smolna 4

Surrounded by darting squirrels and frosted foliage, the park location feels spiritually aligned with the Green Bear’s devotion to celebrating nature. Paying homage to seasonality and tradition, the flavours are big and the tastes are true inside this sanctuary of elegant fancy.

CLASSIC POLISH

Różana

Chocimska 7

An oldie but a goldie! With the house pianist tinkling in the background, just being here feels special. For formal, almost ceremonial occasions, Różana evokes the noble spirit of Old Poland with its upmarket menu and sense of tradition.

TRENDING POLISH

Pod Gigantami

Ujazdowskie 24

Once seen as a classic restaurant for ‘old people’, Pod Gigantami’s reinvention stretches to 3 a.m. finishes come the weekend. Marrying heritage with hip, during more normal hours enjoy thoughtfully cooked Polish classics including an old school schabowy the size of a small planet.

Dine & Delight

POLAND FOR INSIDERS

Źródło

Targowa 81

The interior is a jumble of exposed pipes, flurries of greenery, hardwood floors, recycled furnishings and colourful Boho bits and bobs. Menuwise, the food lights the soul. But more than just celebrating the power of local produce, there’s a refinement at play that speaks of a kitchen team

that aims for magnificence. In October, that meant pumpkin with goat milk feta and ‘golden raisins’, and a star turn from a beef rib with pickled plums and a pair of steamed buns.

LOCAL BAKERY

Bułka z Chlebem

Walecznych 5

The subject of Warsaw’s best artisanal bakery is contentious, but Saska Kępa’s Bułka z Chlebem takes

some beating with its cult miso breads, fluffy loaves of chmurka, pillowy challah and daily pastry specials. It’s an integral part of the community with fermented wheat and rye sourdough their specialty.

STAR SUSHI

Noriko

Mińska 45

BREAD & BREAKFASTS

Baken

Żurawia 6/12 & Browary Warszawaski

Baken feels like a merger between the chic streets of Paris and the cosy corners of Copenhagen, with its delectable breads and inviting atmosphere hinting at French and Danish charm. The energy is conducted through an open kitchen and expressed by handsome staff clad in white t-shirts. The scrambled eggs from the happy hens of Rozwienica are a must – so too are plum Crêpes Suzette.

With just eight seats and one sitting per day, reservations are mandatory. Priced PLN 750 per head, the cost mirrors what many are calling the most exceptional sushi experience the country has ever seen.

TIME FOR THAI

Ahaan

Unii Lubelskiej 1

Found in a historic tollbooth, Ahaan serve mostly authentic ‘street food’ from northern Thailand – that mean more herbs (ginger and lemongrass) and more earthy flavours than you may expect.

AFRICAN FEAST

Queen Sheba

Jana Pawła II 45A

This cramped, little nook presents itself in a cheerful manner, decorated as it is with chunky woods and Ethiopian flags, fabrics and assorted trinkets – it is the food though that is the principal standout, with occasionally hot and peppery meats served on teff-based injera bread (think of a giant pancake) and then scooped up by hand.

COLOMBIAN COOL

Macondo

Poznańska 16

Moving from Poniatowski Bridge in December, Macondo will be looking to transplant their cheerful, party vibe to

Poznańska. Known for their Latin party tipples and bitey menu of crispy empanadas and plantain pancakes, we’ll be checking in on them in the coming weeks!

NEIGHBOURHOOD GREEK

Mr. Greek Souvlaki

Londyńska 16

Festooned with potted shrubs, the outdoor wooden deck is one of Saska’s finest outdoor check-ins. If that’s packed – and it often is –head inside where an atmosphere of gentle chaos reigns in the noisy open kitchen. Eschewing warmth and authenticity, the atmosphere fits we;; with the meaty skewers.

RED HOT INDIAN

Guru Widok 8

From the openers, the chili chicken fry stands out as a dish that’s all snap and crackle, while of the mains the tikka masala is exceptional in taste. And when you want to take the nuclear option, sign the disclaimer before being flattened by the phaal – it’s Poland’s hottest curry!

UPMARKET INDIAN

Bombaj Masala Wola

Krochmalna 61

Under a ribbed, wavy wooden ceiling, revel in a plush interior while enjoying posh ‘street food’ and or the off-the-menu vindaloo. Cocktails reflect the slick, dynamic interior and are also excellent.

TEX-MEX TASTES

Blue Cactus

Elektrownia Powiśle & Fabryka Norblin

They say legends never die, and so it’s proved with the return of this institution. Though contemporary in its styling,

nods to the past are plentiful and include such elements as the original chairs. It vibes well but it eats even better –the tacos and burritos never disappoint.

MEXICAN MAGIC

Santa Catrina

Radna 14

Decorated in a jaunty Day of the Dead style, the tacos (and secret spicy salsas!) of Isabel

Balderas are legendary. The number of expat Mexicans that eat here are the ultimate testament to her prowess.

VIETNAMESE TASTE

Viet Street Food Bistro

Królowej Aldony 5/2

What started as a mere food truck has evolved into a proper sit-down space. The huge bowls of pho are a wise order to make, though our standard

Nov a Wola

AUTHENTIC POLISH CUISINE

R

Dine & Delight

in this busy neighbourhood eatery is the fried beef with pineapple and oyster sauce.

PREMIUM SEAFOOD

Tuna

Elektryczna 2

Resembling the scales of a fish, Tuna’s core decorative element are 18,000 tuna cans that sheathe the walls. Smartly appointed in dark metallic colours, visit for an exhilarating menu that includes salmon jerky, tuna sausages, an elaborately reconstructed dorada tail and the best-selling chili con tuna. It’s an ecstasy of tastes.

ARGENTIAN GREATNESS

Baires

Wybrzeże Kościuszkowskie 43

Sharing a building with Tuna and near Elektrownia, it’s perfectly located in Sava Boutique Hotel. Leo Messi sets the tone with an informal vibe honoring Argentine greats. Enjoy Pisco Sours and empanadas before savoring rib-eye or Portena pizzas. Run by Lucas Arce, Baires is where passion meets taste.

SOUTH AMERICAN FLAIR

Ceviche Bar

Twarda 4

With Argentine chef Martin Gimenez Castro injecting his passion and personality into the venue, this is an address that punches through the greyness of everyday Warsaw. Ceviche is naturally the default order, and here it’s served in around five different forms. The happening, cosmopolitan ambience is reflected by sublime cocktails.

HARDCORE CARNIVORE

Mięsny

Walecznych 64

To some, it’s the best butcher for miles. To others, the greatest informal restaurant that

Warsaw’s ever had. The truth is, Mięsny is actually both: where the latter is concerned, their steaks have no peer. For the budget-minded, the daily-changing lunch deal often hits perfect marks.

THE UNEXPECTED MOD

Oleandrów 8

Devised by Trisno Hamid, a Singaporean chef with a classic French background, glories include Angus beef

rump steak served with tahini mashed potatoes and a big thump of chili and fig relish. Adding to the sense of being somewhere current, find an interior featuring a retro mirrored wall, upside down plants and busy tables filled with new media types.

ONE OF A KIND

Trójka Kielichów

Stalowa 38 / 2

Is it a café? A restaurant? Wine bar? Cocktail den? The truth is,

Burger.lab

Piękna 28/34

If you thought the burger ‘thing’ had jumped the shark ten years ago, then clearly you haven’t been to Burger.lab. The venue alone is invigorating with things taking a truly wacky turn downstairs –looking like it’s been ambushed by graffiti artists, head here to chow down on non-standard burgers such as the Glam – sprayed gold, it’s packed with unexpected additions like strawberry sauce.

it’s all of these yet none. A hybrid hangout at the front end of cool, under indigo tinted lights this scruffy yet theatrically hip room (it’s tiny!) serves killer breakfasts, fab cocktails, low intervention wines and beautiful bites such as Turkish pochette eggs. Radically creative, it’s akin to being invited around to an artist’s studio for a chat and a drink and some curious snacks.

INSTA FAVE

Happa To Mame

Hoża 43/49

Don’t look for a sign, rather for the queue that wraps its way around the corner. Specialising in matcha teas, the menu also includes dango rice balls and daifuku mochi filled with seasonal delicacies. Split in two rooms, the one that gets the most attention touts illuminated mesh-wired installations that hang like clouds.

BURGERS

Burger.lab

Piękna 28/34

If you thought the burger ‘thing’ had jumped the shark ten years ago, then clearly you haven’t been to Burger.lab. The venue alone is invigorating with things taking a truly wacky turn downstairs – looking like it’s been ambushed by graffiti artists, head here to chow down on non-standard burgers such as the Glam –sprayed gold, it’s packed with unexpected additions like strawberry sauce.

A VEGAN THRILLER

Dziki Królik

Rzeczypospolitej 2A

The four-table intimacy of this timber-encased room charms immediately, and is accented by a neon pink flamingo, fragranced candles, and a

discreet pile of books such as Emily Hanson’s Modern Rustic. Head chef Magdalena Kurowicka’s involves Warsaw’s best tacos and more fine-handed concoctions that are veganized with love – for example, soy meat bourguignon.

CITY CENTRE VEGAN

Peaches Gastro Girls

Mokotowska 58

There’s jillions of vegan competitors sharing the same postcode, but no-one pulls it off like Peaches. Touting a cool, scuffed courtyard and radical orange interiors, the Portobello tacos are a Mexican love letter while the wontons deserve their own gold medal.

VEGAN BRUNCH Lychees

Bielańska 1

From the creators of Peaches comes this brill brunch spot. Design-wise, the pair’s taste for cool is unmissable and surmised by a wall of glazed ceramic tiles from Holland’s GBD.studio. The experimental dishes include a great congee served with cashew butter glazed in muscovado, salsa macha, salty angel wings, roasted shallot, and a topping of roasted soybean sprinkles.

VEGAN NOODLES

Vegan Ramen Shop

Finlandzka 12 / Jana Pawła II 52/54 / Kazimierzowska 43

We’ve heard some describe Vegan Ramen Shop as serving “the best noodles in the world!” They’re definitely memorable, and the spicy miso ramen will for sure convert those suspicious of this claim. Enjoy them in a trio of casual eateries each touting their own urban style.

WELCOME TO GREECE!

For authentic Greek food & hospitality, look no further than Mr. Greek Souvlaki!

ul. Londyńska 16 (Saska Kępa)

BEST o f W ARS AW

Insider Approved: Best of Warsaw WINNER 2020!

FOOD, DRINKS,

LIVE MUSIC, ENTERTAINMENT. YOU NAME IT, WE HAVE IT.

FOOD, DRINKS, LIVE MUSIC, ENTERTAINMENT. YOU NAME IT, WE HAVE IT.

IF IT'S FREE, IT'S FOR ME!

Were you aware that you can explore numerous museums and galleries in Warsaw without spending a dime once a week? This offers a chance to visit renowned sites like the Royal Castle, Łazienki Park, and Wilanów Palace, along with specialized venues such as the Poster Museum or the Jewish Historical Institute. Delve into the capital's most fascinating museums and

MUSEUMS

Mondays

Our Pick

THE WARSAW RISING MUSEUM

The Warsaw Rising Museum opened on the 60th anniversary of the Warsaw Uprising, and pays tribute to those who fought for an independent Poland. The exhibition showcases the fighting and daily life during the uprising, highlighting the complexity of the international situation at the time. It also delves into the post-war Communist regime and the fate of the insurgents. ul. Grzybowska 79, 1944.pl

Other free museums

Station Museum ul. Towarowa 3 stacjamuzeum.pl

Jewish Historical Institute ul. Tłomackie 3/5 jhi.pl

Tuesdays

Our Pick

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF TECHNOLOGY

This museum, established in 2017, preserves Poland's technological heritage and fosters engagement with technical progress. It originated from the Museum of Technology and Industry founded in 1929 by engineer Kazimierz Jackowski. The museum's goals are to preserve material testimony of technological development, present Polish technical achievements, and inspire future generations. Its main seat is in the Palace of Culture and Science in Warsaw. pl. Defilad 1 nmt.waw.pl

Other free museums

The National Museum in Warsaw Al. Jerozolimskie 3 mnw.art.pl

Museum of Maria SkłodowskaCurie ul. Freta 16 mmsc.waw.pl

Museum of the Earth Aleja Na Skarpie 20/26, 27 mz.pan.pl

Museum of Caricature ul. Kozia 11 muzeumkarykatury.pl

Wednesdays

Our Pick

FRYDERYK CHOPIN MUSEUM

The Chopin museum is dedicated to preserving the memory of the composer and sharing knowledge about his life and work with the public. Through scholarly research, exhibitions, educational programs, publications, and artistic initiatives, the museum collects, preserves, and showcases objects related to Chopin's heritage. Additionally, it promotes contemporary creative endeavors inspired by Chopin, his music, and his era on a global scale.

ul. Okólnik 1, chopin.museum/en

Royal Castle in Warsaw pl. Zamkowy 4

zamek-krolewski.pl

MUSEUMS

Thursdays

Our Pick

POLIN MUSEUM OF THE HISTORY OF POLISH JEWS

POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews was conceived by the Association of the Jewish Historical Institute of Poland. Established in 2005 through public-private partnership, it garnered international support and won the European Museum of the Year Award in 2016. It serves as a vital platform for dialogue and education on Jewish history and culture, combating prejudice and promoting mutual understanding.

ul. Anielewicza 6, polin.pl

Etnographic Museum ul. Kredytowa 1 ethnomuseum.pl

Fotoplastikon

Al. Jerozolimskie 51 fotoplastikonwarszawski.pl

Heritage Interpretation Centre ul. Brzozowa 11/13 ciz.muzeumwarszawy.pl

Museum of King Jan III’s Palace in Wilanów ul. St. Kostki Potockiego 10/16 wilanow-palac.pl

Museum of Pharmacy

31/33 Piwna Street muzeumfarmacji. muzeumwarszawy.pl/en/

Museum of Printing 23/25 ul. Ząbkowska muzeumdrukarstwa. muzeumwarszawy.pl/en/

Museum of Warsaw Rynek Starego Miasta 28/42 muzeumwarszawy.pl

Museum of Warsaw (Praga) ul. Targowa 50/52 muzeumpragi.pl

Museum of Warsaw (Wola) 12 Srebrna Street muzeumwoli.muzeumwarszawy. pl/en/

Museum of the 10th X Pavilion of the Warsaw Citadel ul. Skazańców 25 muzeum-niepodleglosci.pl/ xpawilon

Pawiak Prison Museum ul. Dzielna 24/26 muzeum-niepodleglosci.pl/pawiak

Polish Army Museum

Warsaw Citadel, Plac Gwardii Pieszej Koronnej muzeumwp.pl

Ujazdowski Castle Centre for Contemporaray Art ul. Jazdów 2 u-jazdowski.pl

Zachęta National Gallery of Art pl. Małachowskiego 3 zacheta.art.pl

Fridays

Our Pick POLISH HISTORY MUSEUM

The Polish History Museum focuses on promoting freedom, parliamentary history, and independence struggles. Through exhibitions, education, and research, it fosters patriotism and civic attitudes rooted in tradition and openness. The museum presents Polish history comprehensively, emphasizing international connections and engages in international outreach to make Poland's history and culture accessible worldwide.

Mokotowska 33/35, muzhp.pl/en

Royal Łazienki Museum ul. Agrykola 1 lazienki-krolewskie.pl

Always free

Chamber of Remembrance at the Warsaw Insurgents’ Cemetery

168 Wolska Street izbapamieci.muzeumwarszawy.pl/en/

DSH (History Meeting House) ul. Karowa 20 dsh.waw.pl

Geological Museum ul. Rakowiecka 4 pgi.gov.pl/muzeum

Legia Warsaw Museum ul. Łazienkowska 3 legia.com/en

NBP Money Centre ul. Świętokrzyska 11/21 cpnbp.pl

Katyn Museum ul. Jana Jeziorańskiego 4 muzeumkatynskie.pl

SHOP

GOD SLEEPS IN THE MINERALS

The fusion of cosmic wonders and earthly treasures await you at Kosmogramy

and palo santo. It's heartwarming when somebody comes in or texts us on Instagram and says, 'Such a beautiful, comforting place.' That's what we wanted to provide people," says Damian.

Damian and Michalina, from Kosmogramy shop, opened on the 1st of July last year. Chatting with them while shopping for some Valentine's Day presents, they explained that the name "Kosmogramy" is a fusion of a few meanings: it denotes an arrangement of planets at the moment of birth and "Kosmos," which means the universe in Polish. So, for them, it's a connection between the beauty and mystery of the universe and stones. "Gramy" is akin to grams because that's how they measure, buy (actually millions of grams), and sell the minerals.

"We wanted to create a special place where people could visit to feel good and enjoy the beauty of minerals. And the best thing about it is they can have some of these earth’s treasures at home. We aim to be accessible to everyone, not just a certain age or social group. That's why we offer many types of stones: raw ones, polished, jewelry, specimens, carvings, etc. We also have some incense, sage,

"We have some special stones, like, for example, moldavite, which is not common and comes from asteroids, or, for instance, Poland's national stone, 'striped flint' (now exclusively found in Poland's Swietokrzyskie mountains, 5 km from Damian's family home)," he adds, as I see my daughter digging in the basket of her birthstone, malachite. After a pleasant conversation, I veer towards the beautiful pendants hanging on the wall and see Michalina helping a babcia with something on the higher shelf. It dawns on me that this is a stellar place for every age, especially for a friend or loved one's birthday.

Kosmogramy

Nowy Świat 22, IG/kosmogramy_mineraly

“ We aim to be accessible to everyone, not just a certain age or social group

CHAT

KINGA AND ELA OF RZECZOWNIK

A love for stationery transforms into a haven for handwritten expression and community connection

Insider:: What inspired you to create Rzeczownik?

Well, at Rzeczownik, we're fueled by our passion for stationery, and that passion is infectious! We wanted to create a space where fellow stationery enthusiasts could come together and share in the joy of beautifully crafted notebooks, pens, and all things stationery. It's about more than just products for us; it's about building a community around our shared love for the written word and the tools that make it come alive.

What item from your store should everyone have?

Ah, that's a tough one, but if I had to choose, I'd say a good notebook paired with a fountain pen. There's something magical about the tactile experience of putting pen to paper, and a quality notebook combined with a smooth-writing fountain pen can really elevate that experience. Plus, it's a fantastic way to introduce newcomers to the world of stationery and all the joy it can bring.

Why is the art of writing letters/journals/cards important?

Writing, whether it's letters, journals, or cards, holds immense importance in our eyes. It's more than just putting words on a page; it's a way to slow down, reflect, and truly connect with others on a deeper level. In our fast-paced digital world, writing allows us to carve out moments of mindfulness and genuine human connection. It's a way to celebrate the simple joys of everyday life and to share those moments with others in a meaningful way.

We live in a digital world now – is there a future for the written word?

Absolutely, without a doubt!

While digital communication certainly has its place, there's a timeless quality to the written word that will never fade. Whether it's through personal reflection in a journal, heartfelt correspondence with loved ones, or simply the joy of jotting down thoughts in a notebook, writing offers a much-needed balance to our increasingly digital lives. There's a richness and authenticity to pen and paper that can't be replicated online, and we believe that the future of the written word is as bright as ever.

Rzeczownik

Poznańska 23, rzeczownik.com

ART

STUDIO

VISIT: IVO NIKIĆ

Step into the realm of uninhibited creativity, guided by a master of form and composition.

Imet Ivo at his studio north of Plac Hallera in Praga. Stepping into his storefront turned creative space, I couldn't help but notice a dramatic monument across the street that caught my eye. Ivo explained it's a monument for prisoners who died in Prague after the war, noting the odd choice of font on the plaque resembling the Reksio cartoon from the 60s. This attention to detail on city streets is part of a language Ivo uses in his work.

Our conversation shifted to Warsaw and his favorite neighborhood spots like the quirky interiors of the Nepal restaurant on Plac Hallera and Serso for tastefully loaded bagels. He shared memories of moving from former Yugoslavia at 12 years old, recalling how his friends used to collect colorful cans of popular soda companies after the transformation, now inspirations in his artwork.

Ivo's project called "Hideout," showcased at the Autostrada Biennale last year in Prizren, where he grew up, involves creating

a hideout of plastic industrial crates from Coca-Cola and Pepsi. Enlarged in scale, he allows adults to enter the structure and play games that turn discarded objects into useful toys.

It's the idea of playing games that resonates with the aesthetic of Nikić’s work. Instead of being

hurt or insulted when a person says they can replicate his work, Ivo invented a magnetic canvas with shapes and forms, which he considers letters of his language of creation for people to make art themselves. Watching Ivo play around with the canvas he reminded me of Picasso's quote, “It took me four years to paint like Raphael, but a lifetime to paint like a child" and I can for sure see that anyone who said such a thing, could never come up with results he does almost effortlessly.

His work is vibrant, balanced, and abstractly playful, reminiscent of scrutinizing street objects that appeal to a sophisticated sense of aesthetics.

His preference for spray paint cans over airbrushes adds an element of fascination and unpredictability. Going back to his chat about his influences in the 90s Warsaw skateboarding scene and spray paint graffiti, Ivo's style feels retro yet fresh, popping and catching your eye, evoking feelings of happiness and lightness.

To see Ivo’s work, he isn't represented by one gallery in Warsaw but appears in shows often. Stay updated through his social media and arrange a studio visit. Remember, support living artists— the deceased ones don't need the money.

Check

CULTURAL EDUCATION

"JUGEND MUSIZIERT" Comes to Warsaw:

Celebrating Musical Talents Across Europe.

Experience the vibrant convergence of over 22,000 musical talents across Europe under the banner of international cooperation and cultural celebration.

Youth Plays - "Jugend musiziert" - "JUMU" is the most well-known music competition for young people in Germany and Europe. The idea of the competition was born in 1963 and for over 60 years has provided young musicians with the opportunity to showcase their talents on various musical stages while discovering their abilities and opening pathways to musical education. In the three-stage competition (at the local level - individual countries, regional level - 3 groups in Europe, and federal level - the finale in Germany), over 22,000 participants from more than 30 countries take part each year, making it one of the largest and most successful international youth competitions.

This year's 28th regional competition "Jugend musiziert" will take place in Warsaw from March 20-24, 2024, under the honorary patronage of the Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to PolandViktor Elbling, and the Mayor of the City of Warsaw - Rafał Trzaskowski. The substantive patronage over the event has been taken by the Fryderyk Chopin University of Music in Warsaw, giving the competition high prestige.

The competition strongly aligns with the values of international cooperation and dialogue, in line with the slogan "music connects people," as well as with the hospitality and openness of Warsaw, which garners great interest from the competition participants, organizers, and their families.

WILLY BRANDT CAMPUS

The host of the competition for these five days will be the Polish-German School of Meetings and Dialogue named after Willy Brandt, located in Warsaw's Wilanów district. In the classical music category, the competition will be supported locally by the neighboring and befriended Akademeia High School.

The Polish-German School of Meetings and Dialogue named after Willy Brandt is the only school in Poland that has been offering certified education based on the German curriculum for over 40 years. Along with the German Kindergarten, WBS Music Academy, and BVB Football Academy WBS Warsaw, it forms the Willy Brandt Campus, a place of Polish-German meetings. Since 2005, WBS has operated based on the "Polish-German School Agreement" and has been an institution of educational policy in both countries. In line with the mission of the Campus, over a thousand students of the school, preschool children, football players, and young musicians uphold Willy Brandt's message of tolerance, cooperation, international dialogue, and fair play every day.

TALENT FORGE

Young musicians will compete in several classical and pop categories, both solo and in duets or groups. A lot of excitement surrounds rarely encountered categories such as organ, wind instruments, or plucked string instruments. One can also witness a rare musical performance in the form of four people playing on two pianos, known as the

Eight-Handed Piano category. The categories this year are surprising and make this competition exceptional.

Organizers of the competition take particular pride and satisfaction in the fact that Polish youth has repeatedly been able to participate in many competitions across Europe, always being warmly welcomed and achieving great success. Artists must perform, they must play, they must sing, and we are delighted that this year in Poland, we can contribute to discovering further talents and create conducive conditions for them. Among the Polish successes in the finals of "Youth Plays," we have first, second, and third prizes in solo categories of guitar, saxophone, and percussion. We have many competition laureates, and at WBS, there is always talk of the exceptional performances by Max, Emi, Jan, Magda, May,

and Łukasz, along with their accompanying colleagues. This group of wonderful young people is led by Sara Lobnig, a two-time first-place winner in the pop singing category at the national finale in Germany. She is a young and very talented lyricist and composer and this year's high school graduate whom younger generations of girls aspire to emulate, the next generation of talents embarking on their journey with singing and the JUMU competition.

Scan for information about the categories and the competition

Willy Brandt School Św. Urszuli Ledóchowskiej 3, wbs.pl

Willy Brandt extends gratitude to all partners, sponsors, and donors, whose support made this extraordinary musical event possible.

EDUCATION

preschools

AMERICAN SCHOOL OF WARSAW

Students aged 3-5 are encouraged to try new things, ask questions, and take risks in a nurturing environment in which they learn life skills alongside academics. Following the Primary Years Programme (PYP), our young students become caring, active participants in a lifelong journey of learning. Contact admissions@aswarsaw.org

BRITISH PRIMARY SCHOOL OF WILANOW

A values-driven school offering a world-class education based on the best of British Education. BSW is the first school in Poland to be accredited as Compliant by the Council of British International Schools (COBIS). Based in a purpose built premises in Wilanow BSW is accepting applications from Nursery to Year 9. Please email admissions@ bswilanow.org to organise a visit.

THE CANADIAN SCHOOL OF WARSAW PRESCHOOL

Welcoming students from the ages of 2.5 to 6 years old, currently 45% of their admissions are international students. The dedicated, IB-trained teachers deliver an innovative program (PYP) in English designed for modern world needs. The program offers a combination of Literacy, Maths, Social Studies, Science, Physical Education, Art, Music & Rhythmics, French and Polish classes. ul. Ignacego Krasickiego 53, tel. 697 979 100, canadian-school.pl

CASA DEI BAMBINI & TODDLER SCHOOL

(multiple locations)

Casa dei Bambini and Toddler School have three green and harmonious locations in Mokotów and Izabelin. The school in Izabelin is set in the quiet of the Kampinos Forest just outside the city. Teachers are fully trained in early-childhood education in English according to the Montessori philosophy. Registration open to children 12 months to 6 years of age. ul. Badowska 19, ul. Tatrzańska 5a (Mokotów), ul. Szkolna 16, (Izabelin), tel. 692 099 134, wmf.edu.pl

THE BRITISH SCHOOL WARSAW – EARLY YEARS CENTRE

Our Early Years Foundation Stage provides a play-based learning curriculum full of curiosity, wonder and discovery – the perfect springboard into Primary education. ul. Dąbrowskiego 84, tel. 22 646 77 77, thebritishschool.pl

THE INTERNATIONAL TRILINGUAL SCHOOL OF WARSAW

Established in 1994, The Trilingual School of Warsaw offers nursery, primary, and pre-school education with an international curriculum for children aged from one to 15. The full immersion trilingual setting allows for the choice between English,

warsaw montessori family

Warsaw Montessori Schools accepting applications for our programs and locations:

Infant & Toddler

Tatrzańska 5a

Badowska 19

Casa dei Bambini

Badowska 19

Szkolna 16, Hornówek

Elementary

Szwoleżerów 4

"Erdkinder" Middle School

Tatrzańska 5a

Montessori High School

Pytlasińskiego 13a

Montessori Farm School

Białka 155, koło Radzynia Podlaskiego

Contact Office: 692 099 134

office@warsawmontessori.edu.pl

www.wmf.edu.pl

EDUCATION

Polish, Spanish or Chinese, French or Japanese. Teachers are highly-qualified native speakers from the US, France, Spain, China and Japan. ul. Nobla 16 (tel. 501 036 637), ul. Karowa 14/16 (tel. 503 072 119), ul. Krolowej Aldony (tel. 533 321 084), office@3languages.pl, itsw.edu.pl

THE ENGLISH PLAYHOUSE

The English Playhouse functions in two green and quiet residential districts of Mokotów and Wilanów. The pre-school follows the English National Curriculum and accepts children from 12 months up till six-years-old. For more info or to arrange a tour call Justyna Nowak on tel. 784 037 808 or email:

jnowak@theenglishplayhouse.com ul. Pływiańska 14a, tel. 22 843 9370, tep.edu.pl

MAPLE TREE MONTESSORI

Maple Tree Montessori is a family-run, international preschool that offers an authentic Montessori curriculum supported by a Music & Art program, with a natural playground and a strong focus on an ecological & healthy lifestyle. They have two classes: a toddler group (15 to 30 months) and a casa class (2.5 to 6 years). ul. Piechoty Łanowej 46A

(entrance from Rotmistrzowska/ Petyhorska), tel. 531 599 444, mapletreemontessori.pl

MONTESSORI STEPPING STONES

An intimate, international, English-speaking preschool located in Powsin that follows the Montessori philosophy which emphasizes the individuality of each child. Children from the ages of 1.5-years-old to 6-years-old are welcome, with the school’s goals aimed at facilitating the individual development of the child, both physical and mental, through a system that is focused on the spontaneous use of the human intellect. ul. Przyczółkowa 140, tel. 728 939 582, montessoristeppingstones.pl

ADMISSIONS

EARLY YEARS, PRIMARY, SECONDARY & IB

admissions@thebritishschool.pl (0048) 22 842 32 81 ext. 125 thebritishschool.pl

schools

AKADEMEIA HIGH SCHOOL

Akademeia High School is an academically selective international school in Warsaw, offering iGCSEs and A Levels whilst preparing students for the best universities in the world. The staff body consists of alumni of the world’s best universities, whilst facilities at what has become Poland’s most prestigious school include an art studio, auditorium, sports hall and roof garden. ul. Ledóchowskiej 2, akademeia.edu.pl

AMERICAN SCHOOL OF WARSAW

With over 50 nationalities, ASW has been welcoming students from around the world since 1953. As an IB Continuum school, our students follow the PYP, MYP and DP throughout their learner journey. These programmes develop inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who are motivated to succeed. They are inspired by our highly qualified and international teaching staff. Students graduate with either the IB diploma or an American high school diploma. All programs are conducted in English, with inte-

grated EAL support for non-native speakers. Contact: admissions@ aswarsaw.org or 22 702 85 00, ul. Warszawska 202 (Konstancin-Jeziorna), aswarsaw.org

BRITISH PRIMARY SCHOOL OF WILANOW

A values-driven school offering a world-class education based on the best of British Education. BSW is the first school in Poland to be accredited as Compliant by the Council of British International Schools (COBIS). Based in a purpose built premises in Wilanow BSW is accepting applications from Nursery to Year 9. Please email admissions@ bswilanow.org to organise a visit

EDUCATION

THE BRITISH SCHOOL WARSAW

in her educational philosophy such as: responsibility for one’s own development, care for others, honesty, empathy, and service. The school continues to meet the principles of Maria Montessori through implementing the IB Diploma Program principles and practices. Warsaw Montessori High School is an authorized IB World School for the Diploma Programme – code 061201. ul. Pytlasińskiego 13A, tel. 787 095 835, wmf.edu.pl

shopping experiences

GALERIA PÓŁNOCNA

KLIF HOUSE OF FASHION

Delivering an inclusive, rigorous and high-quality British education in a diverse and caring environment, mission of TBS is to balance academic success with character building and well-being. Students at The British School Warsaw learn an internationally respected curriculum, based on the best of British academics. They take pride in their excellent results at both International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) and IGCSE level, which are well above the global average. ul. Limanowskiego 15, tel. 22 842 3281, thebritishschool.pl

THE ENGLISH PRIMARY

The English Primary is designed specifically for children in the

Białołęka’s first major shopping center includes stores such as Forever 21, Lagerfeld and Guess. Part of the ‘fourth generation of shopping centers’, add-ons include a 5,000 sq/m rooftop garden and some of the best kid’s facilities on Poland’s retail map. ul. Światowida 17, galeriapolnocna.pl

Warsaw’s original luxury shopping center has a line-up of top boutiques that include Max Mara, Paul & Shark and Pinko. ul. Okopowa 58/72, klif.pl

PLAC UNII

One of Warsaw’s latest mall counts Armani Jeans, Liu-Jo and Pandora amongst its upmarket tenants. ul. Puławska 2, placunii.pl

MYSIA 3

primary education ages, just as children experience in England but in an international community. Pupils are taken through the key learning stages so that they can achieve to the best of their ability through a fun learning experience. The Core Curriculum subjects include English, Phonics, Science, Mathematics, French, PE and Swimming, Music, Personal, Social and Health Education. ul. Rzodkiewki 18, tel. 784 037 808, tep.edu.pl

THE CANADIAN SCHOOL OF WARSAW INTERNATIONAL ELEMENTARY AND MIDDLE SCHOOL

The line-up in this trendy department store includes Scandinavian fashion in Cos, a Leica camera shop, Asfalt vinyl store, Japanese fashion and accessories from Muji and sunglasses from Gloomy Sunday. After, check into Reginbar for cooling cocktails in a hip atmosphere. ul. Mysia 3, mysia3.pl

WARS SAWA JUNIOR

Centrally located, perks of Wars Sawa Junior include Poland’s only Uniqlo and the largest adidas store in the country.

WESTFIELD ARKADIA

Not many Polish malls do it better.

Located on two campuses in the Mokotów this is the only authorized IB School with PYP programs taught in English and Polish. French is taught as a third language. Offers a wide range of extra activities, a summer school, and employs a full time psychologist. Provision is made for additional Polish and English support. International staff,

Stores in this giant include Mango, Lacoste, Guess, Hilfiger and Peek & Cloppenburg. Al. Jana Pawła II 82, westfield.com

WESTFIELD MOKOTÓW

cultural events and challenging student initiatives create the perfect learning environment. ul. Bełska 7, tel. 692 411 573 / 885 420 044, secretary@canadian-school.pl or secretary.olimpijska@ canadian-school.pl

Stores inc. Calvin Klein, Hollister, Hugo Boss, New Balance, Royal Collection and Timberland. ul. Wołoska 12, westfield.com

VITKAC

THE INTERNATIONAL TRILINGUAL SCHOOL OF WARSAW

Poland’s first luxury department store gathers the world’s top designers under one roof, with brands including Alexander McQueen, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Stella McCartney, Stone Island and Rick Owens. Further features include a rooftop restaurant. ul. Bracka 9, vitkac.com

ZŁOTE TARASY

Seen from the outside as a giant glass bubble, selling points here include a Multikino cinema, a Calypso fitness club, and a branch of the Hard Rock Café. Stores include high-end brands at Van Graaf, Hugo Boss, Guess and Victoria’s Secret. Global foods can be found at Kuchnie Swiata. ul. Złota 59, zlotetarasy.pl

Established in 1994, The Trilingual School of Warsaw offers nursery, primary, and pre-school education with an international curriculum for children aged from one to 15. The full immersion trilingual setting allows for the choice between English, Polish, Spanish or Chinese, French or Japanese. Teachers are highly-qualified native speakers from the US, France, Spain, China and Japan. ul. Nobla 16 (tel. 501 036 637), ul. Karowa 14/16 (tel. 503 072 119), ul. Krolowej Aldony (tel. 533 321 084), office@3languages.pl, itsw. edu.pl

MONNET INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

Located in Mokotów, the Monnett is the only school in Poland that implements the International Baccalaureate Program from kindergarten level all the way through to secondary school. The fully-qualified staff are committed to delivering only the highest standards of education. ul. Stępińska 13, tel. 22 852 06 08, maturamiedzynarodowa.pl

JOY PRIMARY SCHOOL

Treating pupils with mutual respect but not at the expense of being demanding, the methods used are hard on the problem but soft on the person. Taking into account what students think, feel, learn and want for themselves and their world, Joy Primary teaches important life skills as well as respect, care for others, problem solving and co-operation. Here, children are challenged to discover their abilities and competences,

shopping experiences

KLIF HOUSE OF FASHION

Warsaw’s original luxury shopping center has a line-up of top boutiques that include Max Mara, Paul & Shark and Pinko. ul. Okopowa 58/72, klif.pl

MYSIA 3

The line-up in this trendy department store includes Scandinavian fashion in Cos, a Leica camera shop, Asfalt

while encouraged to explore personal strength and autonomy. ul. Syta 131A, tel. 722 305 333, sekretariat@joyprimaryschool.pl

WARSAW MONTESSORI SCHOOL

A leader in the field of Montessori education, well-trained teachers guide students to independent and successful learning with both English and bilingual classroom provided. Located just steps from Łazienki Park the school resides in vibrant surroundings near to museums, embassies and natural settings which provide students with learning outside the classroom. ul. Szwoleżerów 4 (grades 0-4), tel. 608 488 420, wmf.edu.pl

WARSAW MONTESSORI MIDDLE SCHOOL

Guided by trained specialists, students are responsible for

vinyl store, Japanese fashion and accessories from Muji and sunglasses from Gloomy Sunday. . ul. Mysia 3, mysia3.pl

WARS SAWA JUNIOR

Centrally located, perks of Wars Sawa Junior include Poland’s only Uniqlo and the largest adidas store in the country.

WESTFIELD ARKADIA

Not many Polish malls do it better. Stores in this giant include Mango, Lacoste, Guess, Hilfiger and Peek & Cloppenburg. Al. Jana Pawła II 82, westfield.com

managing their household, operating small businesses, caring for local flora and fauna as well as domesticated animals, taking charge of the younger children and much more. “Adolescence Program” activities, integrated with academic studies, help students discover their inner strength to meet real life challenges. ul. Tatrzańska 5A (grades 5-8), tel. 604 137 826, wmf.edu.pl

WARSAW MONTESSORI HIGH SCHOOL

Warsaw Montessori High School aims to teach students the values which Maria Montessori outlined in her educational philosophy such as: responsibility for one’s own development, care for others, honesty, empathy, and service. The school continues to meet the principles of Maria Montessori through implementing the IB Diploma Program principles and practices. Warsaw Montessori High School is an authorized IB World School for the Diploma Programme – code 061201. ul. Pytlasińskiego 13A, tel. 787 095 835, wmf.edu.pl

WESTFIELD MOKOTÓW

Stores inc. Calvin Klein, Hollister, Hugo Boss, New Balance, Royal Collection and Timberland. ul. Wołoska 12, westfield.com

ZŁOTE TARASY

Seen from the outside as a giant glass bubble, selling points here include a Multikino cinema, a Calypso fitness club, and a branch of the Hard Rock Café. Stores include high-end brands at Van Graaf, Hugo Boss, Guess and Victoria’s Secret. Global foods can be found at Kuchnie Swiata. ul. Złota 59, zlotetarasy.pl

Powązki Cemetery Jewish Cemetery

Marszałkowska

MAP

shopping experiences

1

Designer Outlet Warszawa ul. Puławska 42E, designeroutletwarszawa.pl

2

Elektrownia Powiśle ul. Dobra 42, elektrowniapowisle.com

3

Galeria Mokotów ul. Wołoska 12, galeriamokotow.com.pl

4

Galeria Północna ul. Światowida 17, galeriapolnocna.pl

5

Klif House of Fashion ul. Okopowa 58/72, klif.pl

6

Koneser Pl. Konesera, koneser.eu

7

Plac Unii ul. Puławska 2, placunii.pl

8

Mysia 3 ul. Mysia 3, mysia3.pl

9

Vitkac

ul. Bracka 9, likusconceptstore.pl

10

Westfield Arkadia

Al. Jana Pawła II 82, pl.westfield.com/arkadia

11

Złote Tarasy

ul. Złota 59, zlotetarasy.pl

museums

1

National Museum

Al. Jerozolimskie 3, mnw.art.pl.pl

2

The Warsaw Rising Museum

ul. Grzybowska 79, 1944.pl

3

Museum of Life Under Communism

ul. Piękna 28/34, mzprl.pl

4

Fryderyk Chopin Museum

ul. Okólnik 1, chopin. museum

5

Neon Museum

ul. Mińska 25 (Soho Factory), neonmuzeum.org

6

Museum of Warsaw Rynek Starego Miasta 28/42, muzeumwarszawy.pl

7 POLIN

ul. Anielewicza 6, polin.pl

sport

1

Legia Stadium Łazienkowska 3, legia.com

live music

1

Chaton Warsaw Foksal 19, chatonwarsaw.com/en

HONORING A HERO

The National Bank of Poland has unveiled its latest collector’s coin, with a limited mintage of up to 10,000 pieces. The coin pays homage to the legendary Major Henryk Dobrzański Hubal, war hero, freedom fighter, and champion equestrian

Renowned for his equestrian prowess, Major Dobrzański Hubal led a remarkable life, from triumphs in prestigious horseback riding competitions to his pivotal role in the de-

fense of Poland during its darkest hours.

Henryk Dobrzański, born on June 22, 1897, in Jasło, hailed from a family with a strong legacy of resisting foreign oppression. Joining the Polish Legions at 17, he served in the 2nd Uhlans Regiment, enduring internment after their escape in 1918. Decorated with the Silver Cross of the Virtuti Militari and four Crosses of Valor, he continued his military service post-war.

In 1924, he achieved success in equestrian competitions, including the Nations Cup in Nice. Despite retiring in July 1939, he returned to active duty the following month and became deputy commander during World War II.

Following the Nazi and Soviet aggressions in September 1939, he led resistance efforts in Warsaw under the alias “Hubal.” His unit, the Separate Unit of the Polish Army, engaged in successful operations but faced retaliation, with the Germans burning hundreds of homesteads and killing civilians.

Hubal perished in combat on April 30, 1940, his burial place remaining unknown. Posthumously promoted to Lieutenant Colonel in 1966 and awarded the Gold Cross of the Virtuti Militari in 2010, his courage remains emblematic of military valor and patriotic resilience.

Released on February 13, the silver coin, with a denomination of 10 zł, honors Major Dobrzański Hubal. Available at NBP Regional Branches and the Kolekcjoner online store, the coin is made of 0.999 fine silver, measuring 32.00 millimeters in diameter and weighing 31.10 grams. The obverse features Major Dobrzański Hubal on horseback with a drawn sword, while the reverse shows him in uniform with the Silver Cross of the Order of Virtuti Militari.

TOP PHOTO NAC, BOTTOM PRESS MATERIAL

GREY WOLF