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.
Intel
Praga Perspective
A mural connecting past and present Praga
A new mural by Tytus Brzozowski has appeared on Kawęczyńska Street, part of Praga's emerging cultural route. The mural showcases local landmarks, including the iconic Burke wooden house and Koneser guardhouse, with trams from the Praga depot taking center stage. Spanning over 400 m², its one-point perspective draws viewers in, encouraging exploration of Praga and Szmulki. This is Brzozowski’s tenth mural in Warsaw and a tribute to his family’s deep connection to the area.
In the News
ARCHITECTURE
Global Award Honors Vision
The Saxon Palace (Pałac Saski), a key Warsaw landmark destroyed during World War II, has received the prestigious International Architecture Award in the restoration and renovation category. Designed by Polish architectural studio WXCA, the reconstruction aims to restore the palace to its 1939 form, using traditional materials. Plans include integrating surviving elements like the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Construction is set to begin in 2026, with an estimated cost of 2.5 billion zloty (€585 million), while the project receives mixed responses from local officials.
Gaga's Polish Jester Surprise
Polish fans were quick to spot an unexpected guest on the cover of Lady Gaga’s vinyl album: Jan Matejko’s famous painting of the court jester Stańczyk. This 1862 artwork, considered a Polish national treasure, depicts a solemn jester reflecting on the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth’s loss of Smolensk to Russia in 1514. The National Museum in Warsaw expressed its "shock" at seeing the painting featured, just as it prepares for a loan to the Louvre. Fittingly, one of Gaga's songs is titled The Joker.
HISTORY
Big things in a small package
A team of architecture students from the Warsaw University of Technology—Maksymilian Łuszcz, Paweł Wykowski, and Zofia Zimowska—earned recognition in the international MICROHOME Kingspan Edition competition. Their project, Masurian Microhome, offers sustainable living solutions in Poland’s Masurian Lake District, blending local architectural heritage with modern eco-friendly needs. The design aims to support remote work and counter population decline in the region, standing out for its innovative approach to global and local challenges.
MUSICAL AUTUMN AT NORBLIN FACTORY MUSICAL AUTUMN AT NORBLIN FACTORY
What's in for October
Plant Market
The Plant Festival offers a wide variety of species, from rare collectibles to affordable houseplants. Expect fresh designs, substrates, fertilizers, and accessories for enthusiasts. With prices starting from 5 PLN and no intermediaries, enjoy great savings and higher-quality plants. Quick checkout and Sunday delivery ensure a hassle-free experience!
When: October 19-20
Where: PGE Narodowy
Pat Metheny
Pat Metheny, legendary jazz guitarist and 20-time Grammy winner, is bringing his Dream Box tour to Warsaw. This intimate performance, part of Marcin Kydryński’s Siesta on the Road series, will highlight Metheny’s solo guitar work, spanning his 50-year career and featuring music from his latest album Dream Box
When: until October 5
Where: Palladium, Złota 9
Exhibition at the Factory
The fourth season of the motoring exhibition at the Żerań Car Factory in Warsaw. This exhibition is the only permanent venue of its kind in Poland, as well as being absolutely unique in Europe. More than 200 of the finest classic cars from Poland and around the world will be on display in the former FSO paint shop building. The unforgettable vehicles known from previous seasons will return, while brand new, fascinating models will also be on show. The exhibition is not just a collection of cars - it is a journey in time, an encounter with technology and a passion that cannot be described.
When: October 5
Where: ul. Jagiellońska 88 More Info: fozpit.org/czwarty-sezon
Buy Tickets Now!
Iron Maiden
Iron Maiden will bring their Run For Your Lives World Tour to Warsaw, celebrating 50 years of heavy metal dominance. The 2025/26 tour features iconic hits from their early decades, promising the band's biggest show ever. Fans can expect an epic performance from one of metal’s most legendary acts!
When: August 2, 2025
Where: PGE Narodowy
Imagine Dragons
The global pop-rock sensation behind hits like Radioactive and Believer, are set to bring their electrifying energy to Warsaw. Renowned for their dynamic performances and chart-topping anthems, the band continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Get ready for an unforgettable night of music and energy!
When: August 14, 2025
Where: PGE Narodowy
Warsaw Film Festival
The Warsaw Film Festival (WFF), established in 1985, became part of the elite group of internationally accredited competitive film festivals in 2009, joining the ranks of Cannes, Venice, and Berlin. WFF stands out with its unique programming, catering to both local and transient audiences. It showcases global cinema—American indie films, Asian, Latin American, and more—often before directors achieve major recognition. Renowned filmmakers like Michael Haneke, Cristian Mungiu, and Pawel Pawlikowski have all graced the WFF stage before their greatest successes.
When: October 11-20
Where: Various venues
More Info: wff.pl
3 DECADES OF MUSIC IN 3 DAYS FOR FOOD TOWN’S 3RD BIRTHDAY!
Mark your calendars for October 18th–20th as the biggest food hall in Poland, Fabryka Norblina’s Food Town, celebrates its 3rd anniversary with a nostalgic journey through three decades of music and memories. Get ready to revisit a time when there was no artificial intelligence or social media, and what truly mattered was exploring the world with friends and having pure, unfiltered fun. Expect nothing less than the vibrant vibes of MTV's golden era over these three unforgettable days!
Each day is dedicated to a different decade of pop culture with Melanie C headlining.
Friday (80s) Disco lights, neon colors, and nonstop dancing.
Saturday (90s) Music, creativity, and the birth of bold identities.
Sunday (00s) Fashion-forward vibes and performative expressions.
Food Town is all about people, and this celebration is created for people. In today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world, we’ve become more disconnected than ever. But during these three days, we’ll reconnect with simpler times—when playing outside with friends, climbing trees, and hide-and-seek ruled our days.
Food Town’s 3rd Birthday is a festival of fun, nostalgia, and most importantly, bringing people back together. Expect to groove, boogie, and embrace those "good old vibes" all weekend long.
But that’s not all! We have a special birthday surprise: an international pop star, an icon of the early 2000s, will be headlining the event! Want a hint? You might just find it in the text above. Stay tuned for the big reveal!
Fabryka Norblin ul. Żelazna 51/53. foodtown.pl
Well-being
BREAKING THE MOLD
Karolina Erdmann, founder of Yoga Beat Studio, shares her inspiring journey from corporate law to dynamic yoga, blending movement with music to create a fresh approach to wellness in Warsaw.
INTERVIEW BY ADA MARCINOWICZ
I am extremely excited to be able to interview you. You are a vibrant, young, and inspiring woman of success. Your studio, Yoga Beat, has gained massive popularity in Warsaw. How did the idea of creating this unique space come about? Hi, thank you, it’s very nice to hear that. The story of me and Yoga Beat Studio is quite winding, with no shortage of twists and turns—I didn’t always know that yoga or movement, in general, would become my career path or later—my business. I graduated in law from the University of Warsaw and worked for nine years in a corporation. I’ve always loved movement. When corporate life began to stifle and limit me, I decided to take a breath and went on my first course… and from there, things developed step by step to where they are today. I believe every stage of my life taught me something, and Yoga Beat is the sum of these experiences.
What probably intrigues people the most are the beginnings of every venture. What was your personal journey like? Did you always feel you wanted to pursue yoga professionally, or was it more of a natural, spontaneous progression? Movement has always been close to me, and yoga inspired me from the first time I tried it, although it took some time before I found a type that fully resonated with me (hence my own method). I started practicing yoga hesitantly, without any big expectations, and it turned out the way it did. And although yoga is a path of wellness, well-being, and self-care, the yoga business has many facets. It’s still just hard work, consistency, self-discovery, understanding other people and
“I believe that growth and a broad perspective are what allow us to thrive and stand out”
their needs. I believe that growth and a broad perspective are what allow us to thrive and stand out.
Yoga Beat stands out on the Warsaw yoga scene not only because of its approach to this practice but also the energy that music brings to it. What songs and genres do you usually choose for your sessions, and why these in particular? The music simply has to resonate with me. I avoid popular hits, but my soundtracks for classes are a mix of classical music, rock, and electronic music. I choose it to create a specific effect— calming, grounding, setting the rhythm for the class, or adding energy. For me, yoga and music are complementary when paired appropriately.
Warsaw is a city full of diversity, with different lifestyles and activities. How do you perceive the role of yoga in a dynamic urban environment? Do you feel this city has a special influence on the popularity of yoga in your studio?
Warsaw is a city of diversity, and we as people are also diverse, looking for different things. Our studio has also evolved over time, and now, in addition to dynamic yoga, we offer classic styles, Pilates, strengthening classes, as well as stretching and mindfulness sessions. We want everyone who joins us to find something for themselves, for every day and every moment in life—the good
ones and the not-so-good ones. Most importantly, yoga fits into the trend of self-care, which is a priority in such a dynamic city to avoid losing ourselves and our needs.
You are a young woman who dared to start her own business. What were the biggest challenges you had to face?
The start of any business, like any new thing we take on in life, brings various challenges. We learn, make mistakes, and constantly have to draw lessons from both good and bad situations. However, those learned lessons and attention to suggestions, market changes, and societal needs are what lead to success. And the biggest challenge?
Showing people what I fell in love with—dynamic yoga that tires you out, energizes you, and strengthens you. When I started, yoga in the capital was a calm practice, standing alongside stretching classes.
Many people perceive yoga as a static, calming, and very peaceful practice. Yoga Beat often brings quite a different energy. What are the reactions of guests who experience your approach to yoga for the first time?
They are surprised—by the pace, intensity, and choice of exercises. In the middle of the class, there’s an internal rollercoaster—it’s hard, the body wants to give up, but the music pulls you along, and
the energy of the group pushes you forward, because we’re all exercising together, in the same rhythm. They keep going, they don’t give up. The end of the class is always soft, relaxing, full of breath. It’s a time when everyone lying on their mat can say to themselves, "I DID IT." They are stronger—and they carry that physical and mental strength with them into their everyday challenges.
What is your biggest dream related to personal or professional development? How and where do you see yourself and Yoga Beat in a few years?
Dreams... maybe Yoga Beat Studio in other European cities? Our own retreat, a getaway center? We’ll see. I do what comes, what flows, what aligns with me. Nothing forced.
Finally, I’d like to ask, what advice would you give to women who dream of starting their own business but are afraid to take the first step? What do you think is key to achieving success?
Take the first step and be authentic, be yourself. Face the challenges and stay consistent. Never stop believing in yourself
For more about Yoga Beat Studio Scan Here
DIVINE BYHAJDA
Unique fashion, jewelry, and designerpieces— where style, originality, and inspiration come together in one magical space.
Divine by Hajde is a luxurious concept store located in the heart of Warsaw, offering a curated selection of unique fashion, jewelry, and design pieces. Tailored for individuals who appreciate originality, quality, and cutting-edge design, the store features carefully handpicked collections from emerging yet exceptional designers. Alongside its distinct fashion offerings, it also showcases designer accessories that stand out from the mass-produced items commonly found in mainstream markets.
However, Divine by Hajde is more than just a shopping destination – it’s a creative hub for those seeking inspiration and the latest trends. The store regularly hosts events (always relaxing, interesting, and magical gatherings, often featuring meditation and mantras!) and collaborates with artists, further enhancing its vibrant, artistic atmosphere. Here, art meets fashion, offering customers products that blend functionality with aesthetics and a unique sense of style. With this innovative approach, Divine by Hajde attracts clients who are not only looking for extraordinary pieces but also wish to express their individuality through fashion.
The store's growing popularity is fueled by its strong presence on social media, where it showcases both its exclusive products and the distinctive shopping experience it offers. For those who value both impeccable style and a premium shopping experience, Divine by Hajde is the place to be.
Poznańska 14, IG.com/divine_byhajde
Well-being
FIND YOUR FLOW
Transformative Yoga Experiences to Elevate Your Wellbeing and Fitness
YOGA BEAT STUDIO
Yoga Beat Studio takes fitness to the next level with a dynamic mix of yoga, pilates, HIIT, and mindfulness! Whether you’re after the deep calm of yoga or the sweat-dripping intensity of high-energy HIIT, this studio has something for everyone. Ready to transform your body and mind in one place? This the place where you can feel the difference!
Wilcza 46 (Śródmieście, yogabeat.pl
Warsaw Pilates
Warsaw Pilates led by the renowned Iga Majewska, offers personalized yoga and pilates sessions in various places that will sculpt your body and elevate your fitness to the next level! Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, their expert instruction will help you strengthen your core, improve your posture, and unleash your full potential –and all of this in the midst of stunning natural surroundings or unique architecture! Pop-up locations, warsawpilates.pl
YOGOVO STUDIO
Yogovo.studio in Wilanów is a serene yoga sanctuary open to all, offering bilingual classes for Polish and Russian speakers. Immerse yourself in the calming world of traditional yoga, where every breath brings peace and every movement restores balance. This inclusive, tranquil space is perfect for anyone looking to find their center and connect with a like-minded community.
Sobieskiego 1 (Wilanów), yogoovostudio.com/
AT STUDIO WARSAW ANNA TYTUS
Discover the serene and welcoming atmosphere at Studio Warsaw Anna Tytus, where personalized attention and small class sizes ensure a truly transformative yoga (and other body&mind activities) experience. Led by expert instructors, the studio offers a wide range of classes tailored to all skill levels, making it the perfect space for beginners and seasoned practitioners alike. With a holistic focus on health and well-being, Studio Warsaw Anna Tytus integrates yoga with mindful breathing techniques and meditation to help you find balance and peace in your daily life. They also offer Pilates classes on state-of-the-art Balanced Body machines like Reformers and Cadillac. Grzybowska 49 (Wola), IG.com/at_studio_warsaw_anna_tytus
DAR Sport Space
Your go-to destination for a full-body and mind transformation! With yoga, barre, stretching, pilates and functional training, this studio offers a unique blend of movement designed to boost your fitness and elevate your wellbeing. A key feature is the small group size, with no more than 6 participants, ensuring a personalized approach and focused attention. Step into this holistic space and discover a new level of strength, flexibility, and balance in your everyday life!
ATTENTION ENGLISHSPEAKING BEER ENTHUSIASTS IN WARSAW!
Get ready, beer lovers—Warsaw is about to become your hop-fueled playground. The 18th edition of the Warsaw Beer Festival is just around the corner, and this year, it’s bigger, bolder, and tastier than ever before. Over the past decade, this festival has become a must-attend event for craft beer fans, and even Untappd—the famous beer-ranking app—has named it one of the top three beer events in Europe. That’s right, it’s not just Poland’s best-kept secret anymore; the word is out!
Thanks to a growing network of over 10 ambassadors from across Europe, the buzz around Poland’s craft beer scene is reaching new heights. Whether you’re a casual sipper or a die-hard beer nerd, this is your chance to dive deep into a world of unique brews, masterclasses, and mouth-watering food pairings. And don’t worry if your Polish is rusty— all event materials, from guides to talks, will be available in both Polish and English. So grab a glass and enjoy, no translation apps required!
BEYOND THE BREWS
This year’s Warsaw Beer Festival is more than just great beer— there’s a smorgasbord of other experiences waiting for you. Think craft food stalls, mead tastings, live games, and even a beer-lover's sauna. Want to stretch it out? Join the beer yoga sessions (yes, you read that right). It’s a whole new way to earn your pint! And if you need a bite to keep you going between brews, don’t
miss Gastrofaza, the festival’s fan-favorite food truck offer. Known for its bold, flavor-packed street food, Gastrofaza serves up dishes that pair perfectly with a cold pint. Whether you’re craving a signature pulled pork sandwiches or spicy tacos, one thing’s for sure—your taste buds are in for a treat. It’s the kind of street food that keeps you coming back for more (and maybe another beer to wash it down).
Of course, no mention of the festival would be complete without a nod to the extraordinary Polish craft brewers themselves. These independent pioneers will be right there on-site, eager to chat about their latest brews and give you the lowdown on what makes their beers stand out. This personal touch is what sets the festival apart—you’re tasting the future of Polish craft beer, straight from the source.
THE NUMBERS BEHIND THE MAGIC
As the festival celebrates its 10 year anniversary, let’s take a moment to toast the incredible journey so far:
250,000 attendees
15,000 beers poured
1,000 premiere beers
FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS
(FRIDAY & SATURDAY)
FRIDAY:
Baltic Porter with Brazilian Wood: Palatum Brewery teams up with Brazilian brewer Nadhine França to show you how six types of exotic Brazilian wood can transform dark beers.
Furious Meads Master: A workshop where you'll craft and customize your own bottle of Furious Meads, with tastings and insights into their unique history.
Beer Sensory Practices: Ever wanted to train your taste buds like a pro? Join Dr. Boris Gadzov for a sensory workshop, complete with FlavorActiV samples, and take your beer tasting to the next level.
SATURDAY:
Top-Rated Barrel-Aged Beers: Taste six of the festival’s most buzzed-about barrel-aged beers, handpicked by Untappd and presented by beer expert Łukasz Gralewski.
O’Hara’s Brewery Masterclass: Journey to Ireland through a tasting experience curated by O’Hara’s Brewery, one of the island’s craft beer pioneers.
Top-Rated Sours: Artur Napiórkowski, a certified beer judge, will guide you through Poland’s top Fruited Sours and Berliner Weisse. Get ready for a flavor explosion!
Green Gold Tasting: Discover unique brews from Slovenia’s trailblazing Green Gold brewery, known for their hoppy wonders and bold imperial stouts.
MOMENTS. MYSTERY. IMAGINATION.
Photographer Erik Witsoe captures the beauty in everyday moments, blending street life, cinematic influence, and eerie storytelling into his striking visuals
Photography
You have a beautifully edgy style of photography, especially in your street photography and portraits. Who or what have been some of your influences as a photographer? You might be the first person to describe my work as edgy, which I appreciate and agree with. I think it’s important to mention that I’m not seeking out conventional beauty, but rather finding beauty within moments. My inspiration comes from the work of Gregory Crewdson, Saul Leiter, Fred Herzog, Walker Evans, Francesca Woodman, and many
others. Cinema has also been a constant source of inspiration throughout my life, heavily influencing how I see the world. I often refer to what I do as "daily cinema" while walking through my neighborhood or looking out the tram window as I pass through the city.
Your work on Instagram, tagged with the location "My Imagination," caught our attention, especially for this season's Halloween spirit. Skulls, solitary figures, and some monsters. Can you tell us
more about that?
It’s a blend of the heavy metal music I listen to and my lifelong fascination with horror and creatures. Ever since I can remember, I’ve been drawing monsters and eerie figures. During art school, I honed my skills in drawing and painting, often using horror as my subject matter. I’m attracted to work that carries a sense of tension, and much of my photography and AI-based art reflects that. I have a vivid imagination, filled with mysterious stories, which I credit to being a voracious reader—especially of dark fiction.
AI has definitely become a part of your creative process. How has that experience been for you as a photographer?
Everything I’ve learned throughout my life has fed into my photography. Art school taught me about composition, color, and perspective—principles I still use in my work today. When it comes to AI, it’s about figuring out how to craft and approach a piece, as well as knowing what I want from it in the end. But I also love the surprises that AI throws in. Sometimes, my AI work is based on my photography, and sometimes it’s not. Just like the camera helps me express and understand my world, AI allows me to visualize my imagination and untold stories.
Is there a particular part of the city you live in that inspires you most?
I’ve lived in the Ochota area since 2018, and my neighborhood is a huge source of inspiration. As I go about my daily errands, I find
myself drawn to the “ordinary moments” that I try to capture in my work. I always carry my camera with me, and it’s not unusual for me to spot a scene on the way to Biedronka. Having an intimate connection with where I live is important to me, and I nurture that by walking everywhere, often multiple times a day. Sometimes, I photograph the same things repeatedly over the year, and other times, I take different routes to reach the same destination. I’m always amazed at how the same street can look completely different at various times of day, revealing new characteristics.
You live in Warsaw—what’s your opinion of the city as a photographer?
Yes, I do live here! I think Warsaw is very photogenic, but maybe in unconventional ways. I’m always looking for how the city impacts me, how it makes me take a second look, or challenges what I think I know. There’s what you see on the surface, and then there’s the “hidden” Warsaw that reveals itself over time. That’s what I’m after, and I especially enjoy the rough edges. Warsaw offers everything a photographer needs—beautiful cityscapes, a strong sense of history, bustling streets, and plenty of people. I encourage others to look beyond the obvious, past the gates, to discover the beauty just off the main streets.
“When it comes to AI, it’s about figuring out how to craft and approach a piece, as well as knowing what I want from it in the end”
For more of Erik's photography, visit his Instagram
Walking Warsaw
TAKE A STREET: ZĄBKOWSKA
A recent catch up with Antoni Wladyka of Walking Warsaw led us to focus in on a must-see kilometer of one of Warsaw's oldest streets
Milk Bars
There’s something about milk bars in Warsaw that feels like slipping into a favorite old sweater—familiar, cozy, and a little worn in all the right ways. Antoni and I share this affection, especially when it comes to Bar Bambino on Krucza Street, where my daughter has grown up slurping zupa pomidorowa that’s nearly as good as babcia’s. Honestly, where else can you get a bowl of tomato soup that beats opening a can, and for mere pocket change?
Antoni has a more philosophical take, sharing with his opinion that no matter who you are, rich or poor, you’re tucking into the same comforting pierogi, hearty soups, or meat-stuffed goodness. It's this democratic spirit that makes milk bars one of Poland’s most cherished traditions.
We meet this time at Antoni’s favorite, Bar Ząbkowski, on the corner of Targowa and Ząbkowska streets in Praga. Over his go-to order, a golden-brown schnitzel, Antoni casually mentions a bit of trivia: Warsaw’s very first milk bar opened in the 19th century. Who knew this down-to-earth institution had such a grand history?
Bar Ząbkowski
Ząbkowska Street
After lunch, we wandered down Ząbkowska, one of Warsaw’s oldest streets. Antoni paints a vivid picture of a bygone city that once stopped at the now-renovated Centrum Praskie Koneser, a vodka factory back in the day. "Imagine," he says, "trains pulling up with grain deliveries straight into the factory." And suddenly, the uneven cobbles and industrial vibes make sense—this is a corner of Warsaw that largely escaped wartime destruction, preserving its gritty charm.
Bazar Różyckiego
Next, we pass Bazar Różyckiego, a marketplace established in 1882 by a visionary pharmacist named Julian Józef Różycki. Once a bustling hub, it’s now a mix of the old and the new—vandalized modern pavilions sit awkwardly beside rickety stalls selling relics from a bygone era. The market’s future is in limbo due to land disputes, and it feels as though history is hanging in the balance here, too.
Kolonia Ząbkowska
Further along, we reach Kolonia Ząbkowska, a multi-family residential complex that mixes old-world Warsaw with modern architecture. Built at the turn of the 20th century, it’s a testament to compromise: 19th-century single-storey facades were saved from demolition, incorporated into the new design after activists fought for their preservation. Today, tucked inside one of the buildings, you’ll find the Museum of Printing. It's worth a peek—not just for the history of printing presses and bookbinding, but also for the hands-on workshops for both adults and kids.
Polish Vodka Museum at Centrum Praskie Koneser
A Toast to Ząbkowska
No stroll through Ząbkowska is complete without a final stop to reflect on the day over a drink. You could opt for something refined at the Polish Vodka Museum, sipping on spirits while soaking up the culture that now fills this once-industrial space. Or, if you’re in the mood for something quirkier, W Oparach Absurdu awaits just down the road. With its whimsical, time-capsule interiors and lively crowd, it's the place to make new friends, sip shots, and snap a few Instagram-worthy pics.
WHILE YOU ARE THERE
Flaki Pyzy Gorące (Brzeska 31)Hearty delicacies served straight from jars, with roots tracing back to feeding hungry shoppers and sellers at Bazar Różyckiego.
The Praga Museum of Warsaw (Targowa 50/52) This museum is a treasure trove of Praga’s past and the perfect spot for snapping memorable photos from its viewing terrace.
Bazar Różyckiego
W Oparach Absurdu
Kolonia Ząbkowska
CHATTER & CHARM!
Where jars and joviality meet in the heart of Warsaw.
Amidweek cocktail outing led my partner and me to Buns and Bottles, where the atmosphere buzzed with lively chatter in Belarusian, creating a welcoming ambiance that felt like a community gathering. This isn’t just any bar; it’s a vibrant spot where laughter and the clinking of glasses blend seamlessly with the innovative cocktail offerings.
What truly sets Buns and Bottles apart is its unique approach to cocktails, served in charming little jars that make every sip feel like a curated experience. This playful presentation elevates the tasting process, allowing guests to explore a variety of flavors without the commitment of a full cocktail. The jars add an element of fun, inviting sharing and conversation among friends.
One standout offering is the sorrel-infused liquor, a delightful gem that caught my attention immediately. With its vibrant herbal notes and refreshing finish, this unique spirit captures the essence of the bar's innovative spirit. The option to take home a bottle of this delightful concoction ensures that the experience doesn’t have to end when you leave. It’s a little taste of Buns and Bottles you can savor long after your visit.
The bartenders are not only skilled mixologists but also passionate about their craft, eager to share the stories behind their creations. This personal touch enhances the warm vibe, making
“
Every sip at Buns and Bottles feels like a curated experience...
every guest feel like part of the Buns and Bottles family. The attentive service contributes to the overall experience, ensuring that each cocktail is crafted to perfection.
Buns and Bottles offers an array of delectable options, including a refreshing gimlet that perfectly balances citrus and spirit, and a raspberry negroni that adds a sweet twist to the classic recipe. Each drink is a testament to the bar's creativity and dedication to quality. Whether you’re seeking a fun night out or a relaxed evening with friends, Buns and Bottles delivers an unforgettable experience that captures the heart of Warsaw’s nightlife.
INSIDER TIP
Grab a bottle of sorrel-infused magic to enjoy at home
Review
FLUFFY
DELIGHTS AWAIT
A Japanese pancake paradise where technology meets taste on Chmielna Street
Stepping into Fluffy for the first time feels like wandering into a milk bar from a sci-fi novel—where nostalgia meets innovation in a fluffy embrace. You order at a window at the back, reminiscent of a chic coat check, before being whisked away to your seat at a curvy W-shaped counter. It’s designed for socializing, inviting you to
strike up conversations with fellow foodies about the delicious wonders being delivered by a robotic serving tray gliding down the aisle like a futuristic food courier.
At Fluffy, the star of the show is undoubtedly the Japanese pancakes—thick, fluffy, and cloud-like. The first bite transports you to a taste realm where gravity seems to bend. The pancakes have a delightful sweetness, enveloped in a texture that’s as light as air. Topped with luscious fruits, rich chocolate drizzles, and even a sprinkle of matcha, each variation invites you to explore a new layer of flavor. It's like eating a soft pillow dipped in sweet sunshine, a sugar rush that somehow manages not to come with any guilt.
But Fluffy isn’t just about
“thick, fluffy, and cloud-like, transporting you to a taste realm where gravity seems to bend
pancakes; it’s a full-on gastronomic experience. The bright, airy atmosphere welcomes you, and the staff seem genuinely thrilled to share their passion for food. There’s a sense of joy that permeates the space, where every detail—from the decor to the plating—invites you to linger a little longer. You might find yourself immersed in laughter and lively conversation, all while indulging in a culinary experience that feels curated just for you.
The technology at Fluffy adds to its charm. That robotic tray? It’s not just a gimmick; it’s part of what makes dining here so unique. You can’t help but marvel at the seamless delivery system, feeling like you’ve stepped into a modern fairy tale where food serves itself. With its perfect blend of charm, innovation, and heavenly pancakes, Fluffy is a must-visit. As Chmielna Street prepares to unveil its revitalization, Fluffy will become a insta-destination for people to share this fun experience.
Unearth hidden delights at Usagi No Shima, where each dish whispers secrets of Japan
This charming spot is more than just a café; it's a serene escape that transports you to a tranquil island, brimming with unique flavors and experiences. Unfortunately without bunnies running around as the name suggests.
Upon entering, you're greeted by a calming ambiance, where soft lighting and minimalist decor create a peaceful sanctuary away from the bustling city. The café's name, translating to "Island of the Rabbit," is reflected in its whimsical design elements, featuring rabbit motifs that charm both adults and children alike. It’s the perfect backdrop for an afternoon coffee or a casual catch-up with friends.
One standout on their menu is their Matcha Latte, renowned for its rich, earthy flavor and creamy texture. But what truly sets it apart is the stunning 3D latte foam art of cats, corgis, bunnies and pandas. The skilled baristas craft intricate designs that not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a touch of artistry to your coffee experience.
Another highlight is the Mitarashi Dango,which consists of tender cooked rice dough dumplings drizzled in a sweet and salty Mitarashi glaze based on soy sauce. These delightful treats perfectly balance flavors, making them a must-try for anyone looking to experience authentic Japanese sweets.
If you're craving something savory, the café's strawberry sandwiches are a delightful surprise. Featuring fresh strawberries and a smooth cream filling, these sandwiches offer a refreshing twist that is both
Księdza Ignacego Jana Skorupki 5 (Śródmieście),
satisfying and light.
Many patrons have pointed out the café's sense of community, where regulars are treated like family. This personal touch enhances the overall experience, making you feel right at home.
In a city filled with coffee shops and cafés, Usagi No Shima stands out not only for its delightful menu but also for its enchanting atmosphere and warm hospitality. Whether you're a fan of Japanese
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Many patrons have pointed out the café's sense of community, where regulars are treated like family
cuisine or simply looking for a new place to unwind, this café promises an experience that delights the senses. Usagi No
TIMELESS TASTES
Le Cedre’s Praga location, nestled near the park, is our go-to for autumn delights—perfect for enjoying warm dishes in a cozy setting.
Warsaw’s ever-evolving landscape is particularly evident in Praga, an area that’s transforming rapidly with shiny new investments and urban developments. But while loftstyle apartments and modern eateries rise around it, Le Cedre stands as a bastion of tradition and charm, anchored by its legendary owner, Tony, who has been welcoming guests for an impressive 27 years. A
“
This is the type of spread designed to be shared, discussed, and savored—a feast that evokes the warmth and hospitality of the Middle East
man who prides himself on treating patrons like family, Tony has cultivated a spot where the heart of Lebanon beats in the soul of Warsaw.
The recent opening of the pedestrian bridge has further tied Praga to the city's core, making it easier than ever for Varsovians to discover (or rediscover) this gem. But amidst all the change, Le Cedre remains unfazed—its allure undimmed, its authenticity intact.
The true insider tip? Le Cedre is perfect for group gatherings. Its set menu, priced at 99 złoty per person, offers a culinary journey that will leave you full yet craving more. On a recent midday visit, one of our team members shared the experience with their partner, marveling at the value for money. For under 100 złoty, you get an extraordinary lineup of flavors, from the freshness of tabbouleh and the smoky richness of baba ghanouj to the hearty, fragrant kofta and the succulent shish taouk. Here's a taste of what the 99 złoty per person set menu includes:
10 cold appetizers: Tabbouleh, Baba Ghanouj, Basterma, Loubieh bil Zeit, Shanklish, Mdardara, Labneh, Hummus, Warak Inab, and Kofta Nayeh.
4 hot appetizers: Halloumi, Sambousik Lahme, Falafel, and Krayedis.
2 main courses: Kofta Halabiyeh and Shish Taouk, served with sides of basmati rice and pita bread.
This is the type of spread designed to be shared, discussed, and savored—a feast that evokes the warmth and
hospitality of the Middle East. With autumn now in full swing, Le Cedre’s Praga location becomes even more appealing. After indulging like a sultan in their cozy interior, take a leisurely stroll through the nearby streets, where the crisp air and changing leaves provide the perfect backdrop for reflection and digestion.
Whether you're a regular or a first-timer, one thing’s for sure: Le Cedre is here to stay, offering a slice of Lebanon that will warm your soul, no matter the season.
EXPECTO... DISAPPOINTMENT
Another Harry Potter themed cafe leaves fans wanting more
While Złoty Kociołek tries to cast a spell over its patrons, something about this newly opened venue feels more like a misfired incantation than the magical experience it promises to be. Sure, the decor channels that familiar wizarding world charm, and the themed cocktails give you a moment of whimsy, but then reality sets in. The desserts— billed as "magical"—fall flat with uninspired presentations that
barely get a nod from even the most die-hard Potterhead. The novelty of the wand-making station wears off quickly, and once you spot the beer taps, you can’t help but wonder: is this the Leaky Cauldron for kids, or a pub in disguise?
In comparison, Zaklątek, another Harry Potter-themed cafe in Warsaw, delivers a far more cohesive and enchanting experience. Here, the desserts spark your imagination—each one thoughtfully crafted to evoke the sense of stepping into a Hog-
warts feast. Zaklątek embraces the family-friendly atmosphere with a sense of wonder that Złoty Kociołek lacks, focusing on the little details that transport you into a magical realm rather than veering off course with choices like beer on the menu.
Ultimately, Złoty Kociołek might leave you wondering whether it's trying to conjure a family-friendly space or attract a different kind of crowd. The magic is there, but it’s dimmed by the lack of inspiration in the finer details. Though Złoty Kociołek may not yet have brewed the perfect potion, we hope it finds its footing and transforms into a magical haven for fans of all ages.
Złoty Kociołek Piękna 19 (Środmiescie)
MOCHI MAGIC
A single bite is a bullet train straight to Japan!
Foka Mochi, located on Poznańska Street, is a Japanese pastry haven specializing in artisanal mochi—delicate, chewy rice cakes filled with a variety of flavors, all handmade with natural ingredients to satisfy any sweet tooth. From classic matcha to indulgent options like creamy Snickers and peach-almond, there’s something for every palate—ours being the mango-passionfruit.
One of the shop’s standout features is its quirky interior, which offers a cozy, whimsical atmosphere. This distinctive decor adds to its charm, making Foka Mochi a popular destination not only for mochi lovers but also for those seeking an Instagram-worthy backdrop.
Friendly service and attention to detail make each visit feel special, ensuring that the experience is as delightful as the desserts themselves.
Foka Mochi
Poznańska 14 (Środmiescie), fokamochi.com
Review
SEOUL CRAVINGS
Why Warsaw’s Seoul Oppa is Worth the Wait— and What to Order When You Get There.
One surefire way to spot a popular Warsaw restaurant? Watch where the weekenders flock from the city outskirts, prepared to spend hours waiting for a table. One such place causing a stir is the recently opened Seoul Oppa, tucked around the corner from Hala Koszyki.
Surrounded by top-notch neighbors like Ganon (ramen) and Japonki (sushi)—both Warsaw Insider favorites— Seoul Oppa is a solid bet for a tasty brunch. And if the queue’s unbearable, you’ve got those trusty alternatives. But believe me, the wait at Seoul Oppa is worth it. Even their starter dumplings are a treat, soft and steamy, almost like biting into a mochi with dipping sauce. Then there’s the chef’s pride and joy, KFC—Korean Fried Chicken— which might just be the best in town. The sauce isn’t a fiery punch, which might disappoint some spice fanatics, but the chicken? Tender and juicy, without that heavy, greasy coating you sometimes get.
Craving heat? Go for the bulgogi bowl. It comes with a side of gochujang, so you can mix your rice, veggies, fried egg, and beef (or tofu) into a customized spicy masterpiece.
The surprise hit? Cheese chicken. My daughter and her friend couldn’t get enough of it, and apparently, it’s a smash on Korean YouTube. One bite gave me flashbacks of cheesy snacks from a convenience store, like a savory, chicken-coated cheese doodle—strange, yet strangely good.
And let’s not forget the service. At Seoul Oppa, the staff greet you with a smile and check in on you even during their busiest moments. It’s the kind of place that makes weekenders rearrange their schedules to sneak in a weekday visit—because spending less time waiting and more time eating is always a win.
“ The cheese chicken is like a savory, chicken-coated cheese doodle—strange, yet strangely good.
Seoul Oppa ul. Lwowska 9 (Śródmieście), IG.com/seouloppa_kitchen
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…
The
Farm
Mokotowska 8
The Farm in Warsaw is celebrated for its innovative menu and vibrant atmosphere. Chef Artur Łazarewicz, with a background in renowned restaurants, brings a bold approach to cooking, blending fresh ingredients with unexpected flavors. The restaurant's artistic vibe complements its imaginative dishes, creating a unique culinary experience that attracts food enthusiasts and adventurous diners alike.
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
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
The Buzz
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.
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.
A MODERN HOTEL IN THE HEART OF WARSAW
Welcome to Warsaw’s newly emerging business district. Crowne Plaza@ Warsaw - The HUB hotel offers modern accommodation,
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 realization 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 woodcarved 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.
DESTINATION COFFEE
Café Pląs
Puławska 113A (Królikarnia)
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…
ul. Radna 13, restauracjaoma.com, tel. 574 601 21
Oma in Warsaw's Powiśle district offers a warm, homey atmosphere reminiscent of a visit to babcia's house. The restaurant combines vintage Polish decor with a modern twist, reflected in its creative takes on classic dishes like schabowy with Parmesan and garlic-infused zupa pomidorowa. Make a reservation—this hidden gem is always buzzing.
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.
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.
Dine & Delight
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.
Whether you're looking for a lively night out or a cozy dining experience, Le Cedre promises Lebanese hospitality at its finest with two distinct locations offering unique atmospheres and authentic flavors. At Le Cedre 61, in Praga, indulge in decadent dishes amid a bedouin-inspired ambiance, highlighted by sheesha sessions and Saturday night belly dancing.at 19:00. Don't miss their renowned charcoal-grilled lamb chops. While in Le Cedre 84, in Wola authenticity reigns under the guidance of Lebanese owner Tony. Explore the diverse cuisine with options like the Le Cedre set menu, emphasizing sharing and camaraderie with belly dancing on Friday at 19:00.
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. honey and peanut chili crisps.
THE NEED TO KNOW
The Eatery Koszykowa 49A
This attractive off-street space comes swathed in
white-on-white 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.
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.
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. 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. 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.
STAR SUSHI
Noriko
Dine & Delight
Mińska 45
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
ONE OF A KIND
Trójka Kielichów
Stalowa 38 / 2
Is it a café? A restaurant? Wine bar? Cocktail den? The truth is, 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.
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.
WELCOME TO GREECE!
For authentic Greek food & hospitality, look no further than Mr. Greek Souvlaki! ul. Londyńska 16 (Saska Kępa)
COMMUNITY HUBS & FOOD HALLS
ELEKTROWNIA POWIŚLE
ul. Dobra 42, elektrowniapowisle.com
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.
CENTRUM PRASKIE KONESER
Pl. Konesera, koneser.eu
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.
HALA KOSZYKI
ul. Koszykowa 63, koszyki.com
FABRYKA NORBLINA
Żelazna 51/53
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.
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 open-all-hours ĆMA is a legend in its own lifetime.
BROWARY WARSZAWSKIE
Grzybowska 58, browarywarszawskie.com.pl
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.
GREY WOLF
WARSAW 2024
NOWY ŚWIAT 55 | ALEJE JEROZOLIMSKIE 49
ART, ELEVATED
Inside Warsaw’s newest art destination: a bold statement on creativity, community, and modern culture.
CULTURE
On October 25th, 2024, the Museum of Modern Art in Warsaw (MSN) will finally open its doors on Plac Defilad, a long-awaited moment for the city's vibrant art scene. As we step into this stunning new space, we're not just visiting another gallery—we’re entering a manifesto. For three weeks, the museum will host an array of exhibitions, performances, concerts, and lectures, offering a tantalizing glimpse of what’s to come.
The centerpiece of the opening?
An exhibition of works by women artists like Magdalena Abakanowicz, Alina Szapocznikow, Sandra Mujinga, and Cecilia Vicuña. It’s a powerful statement: a celebration of voices too often forgotten or overshadowed. “We’re starting with women, filling in the gaps in art history,” says museum director Joanna Mytkowska. And it feels fitting— this building, with its minimalist white concrete exterior, nestled between Warsaw's past and future, is the perfect stage for such bold stories.
The new edition of the Warsaw Under Construction festival, titled The Museum Between the Square and the Palace, further deepens this dialogue, engaging with the surrounding urban landscape and its historical context. After two decades of being a nomadic institution, MSN has found its permanent home, firmly rooted in Warsaw’s changing skyline.
It’s not just visual art that will take center stage. The museum’s opening program includes performances reimagining the past decade of Polish choreography and architecture explored through motion. Plus, Kinomuzeum will offer a fresh space for experimental cinema, showcasing everything from independent films to hidden gems from mainstream cinema.
Warsaw’s creative community is also invited to play a direct role in shaping the museum’s future, with the newly-formed Artists’ Civic Council—a first for Poland. This council aims to bring artists from various fields together, giving them a platform to voice ideas, shape policy, and influence how the museum serves the city’s cultural fabric.
In every corner of this new space, there’s a commitment to innovation, inclusion, and bold expression.
“
Stepping into this new space is more than just visiting a museum –it's entering a bold manifesto for the future of art”
Newborn K
Karowa 20, dsh.waw.pl
Style, not trends
The newly opened Ukrainian streetwear store, Newborn K, is not just a retail space—it's a cultural statement
Anew concept store on Mokotowska Street, with an entriance on Krucza, brings an eclectic mix of international street wear to Warsaw. From Amsterdam’s Filling Pieces, discover footwear that seamlessly blends street style with luxury, emphasizing individuality and high-quality craftsmanship. Also hailing from Amsterdam, New Amsterdam Surf Assn. challenges
traditional surf culture with its rebellious designs, paying homage to cold waters and windy coastlines.
Representing the U.S., Carhartt WIP, licensed in Europe, brings a streetwear aesthetic that rivals Supreme and Stüssy, while Oakley surprises with apparel that merges craftsmanship with modern design. France’s RAVE Skateboards offers playful, irreverent clothing and accessories that appeal to skaters and trendsetters alike.
From Kyiv, Riot Division fuses utility and style, creating a community-driven brand with a strong sense of freedom. Also from Kyiv, O(FourFour) stands out with its sustainable, tech-driven activewear, featuring eco-friendly materials like ECONYL® and Yulex® for wetsuits and organic cotton for apparel.
Lastly, from Los Angeles, Market delivers quirky, standout pieces that will catch attention, especially on the basketball court.
CULTURE
Art Box Experience: Dali Cybernetics
Step into a world where surrealism meets technology...
Poland’s first multisensory exhibtion, Dalí Cybernetics, opened on Friday, September 13th, 2024 at the Art Box Experience in Fabryka Norblina in Warsaw. Exploring Salvador Dalí, one of the 20th century’s most influential artists. Dalí pushed the boundaries of art and science, drawing inspiration from Einstein’s theory of relativity. His iconic works like The Persistence of Memory symbolize his genius. Dalí Cybernetics merges his surrealist imagination with modern technology, featuring large-format projections, AI, and virtual reality for a fully immersive experience. Visitors can interact with reimagined versions of masterpieces like The Burning Giraffe and The Temptation of Saint Anthony. The exhibition also offers educational experiences, with programs ranging from school workshops to themed tours for all ages, blending traditional learning with digital innovation. It’s a unique journey through Dalí’s world that both entertains and educates.
“ Stepping into this new space is more than just visiting a museum –it's entering a bold manifesto for the future of art”
CULTURE
Urban echoes
Folk heritage explored in Warsaw's urban canvas
Agata Jarosławiec’s latest exhibition, Bat Instead of Sun, is a powerful meditation on the forgotten narratives of folk culture within the capital’s urban story. Through a combination of personal biography and social reflection, Jarosławiec confronts the stigma surrounding "people from the provinces." Her vivid works— spanning objects, photographs, and video—dive deep into class shame, cultural alienation, and the often-ignored rural roots that continue to shape Warsaw’s identity. Combining historical imprints with modern forms, her visual essay compels viewers to reconsider the rural-urban dynamic, revealing a haunting truth: much of Warsaw’s folk history has been swallowed by the city’s fast-paced, cosmopolitan growth.
Jarosławiec's skillful blend of past and present, tradition and modernity, creates a thought-provoking exhibition that will resonate with anyone grappling with identity and heritage.
“
Jarosławiec
uncovers the forgotten rural roots buried beneath Warsaw’s urban sprawl
Agata Jarosławiec, Bat Instead of Sun
June 19 – December 29, 2024 Museum of Warsaw, Rynek Starego Miasta 32 muzeumwarszawy.pl
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 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 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 INTERNATIONAL TRILINGUAL SCHOOL OF WARSAW
Established in 1994, The Trilingual School of Warsaw offers nursery, primary, and pre-school education with an international curriculum
warsaw montessori family
Warsaw
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
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
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
admissions@thebritishschool.pl
thebritishschool.pl
(entrance from Rotmistrzowska/ Petyhorska), tel. 531 599 444, mapletreemontessori.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 integrated 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
THE BRITISH SCHOOL WARSAW
Delivering an inclusive, rigorous and high-quality British education in a diverse and caring environment, mission of TBS is
EDUCATION
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
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
shopping experiences
THE ENGLISH PRIMARY
GALERIA PÓŁNOCNA
KLIF HOUSE OF FASHION
Mathematics, French, PE and Swimming, Music, Personal, Social and Health Education. ul. Rzodkiewki 18, tel. 784 037 808, tep.edu.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
Stores in this giant include Mango, Lacoste, Guess, Hilfiger and Peek & Cloppenburg. Al. Jana Pawła II 82, westfield.com
WESTFIELD MOKOTÓW
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
THE CANADIAN SCHOOL OF WARSAW INTERNATIONAL ELEMENTARY AND MIDDLE SCHOOL
THE INTERNATIONAL TRILINGUAL SCHOOL OF WARSAW
Stores inc. Calvin Klein, Hollister, Hugo Boss, New Balance, Royal Collection and Timberland. ul. Wołoska 12, westfield.com
VITKAC
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
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
The English Primary is designed specifically for children in the 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,
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, 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
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
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
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
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, while encouraged to explore personal strength and autonomy. ul. Syta 131A, tel. 722 305 333, sekretariat@joyprimaryschool.pl
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
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 managing their household, operating small businesses, caring for local flora and fauna as well
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
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
MUSEUMS
THE MAGNIFICENT SEVEN!
Warsaw’s rich history and cultural significance has left it with no shortage of museums to visit. Offering a well-rounded view of the city’s past and present, these are the seven you just shouldn’t miss…
FRYDERYK CHOPIN MUSEUM
The 18th century Ostrogski Palace is the perfect foil for the ultra-modern content of this multi-sensory space. The personal items are captivating (his death mask, gifts from his muse, etc.), but the big victory here is the museum’s ability to suck visitors right back into the times of Chopin through the use of interactive sights and sounds. ul. Okólnik 1, chopin. museum
MUSEUM OF LIFE UNDER COMMUNISM
A deeply personal insight into the former system by allowing visitors to view what Communism meant to the everyday person. Here, rifle and
rummage through a room mockedup to resemble a typical household apartment, watch propaganda films, peer inside a phone box, paw at vintage keep-fit gear or covet the ladies fashions of the time. Detailed in its captions, witty in its presentation and comprehensive in its content, it is a place where normal items such as aftershave bottles, postcards, clothing and crude household appliances are allowed to shine on a totem and tell their own story. A haven of trinkets and collectibles, its small size belies its utter magic. ul.
Piękna 28/34, mzprl.pl
MUSEUM OF WARSAW
Reprised as a maze-like treasure filled trove glimmering with
curiosities, thousands of objects have been gathered here to detail the story of Warsaw in a non-linear style that can at times feel overwhelming. Peculiar souvenirs, scale models, old postcards and recovered works of art all combine with a mass of trivia to leave visitors boggled with knowledge. The vertiginous views of the Rynek below are worth the admission alone. Rynek Starego Miasta 28-42, muzeumwarszawy.pl
NATIONAL MUSEUM
Famed for its collection of Dutch and Flemish masters, it’s also the final word in Polish art, with all the greats represented – inc. Matejko, Witkiewicz and other such stars.
That’s reason enough for many, but for others the museum’s ace card was revealed at the end of 2017 with the opening of the Gallery of Polish Design. Offering a full 360 view of Polish 20th century applied arts, it’s an aesthetic joy featuring everything from iconic PRL era wall units and tulip chairs to kitschy toys and gizmos. Frankly, it’s a stunning museum that just keeps getting better – though delayed by covid, the start of the year saw the world class Gallery of Ancient Art added to the mix. Featuring 1,800 ancient relics, papyrus scrolls, Iranian golden masks and even an Egyptian mummy! Al. Jerozolimskie 3, mnw.art.pl
NEON MUSEUM
Playing a key role in the government’s attempts to fuse socialist ideology with consumerism, the campaign to ‘neon-ize’ Poland saw gloomy cities still bearing the scars of war boldly gleam once more under lights designed and produced by many of the leading
artisans of the time. Salvaged from the scrapheap (in many instances, literally), this museum was created by Ilona Karwinska and David Hill who inadvertently kickstarted a nationwide trend and reignited the country’s appetite for neon. Housing several dozen neons that once lit up Poland, these renovated signs make for Warsaw’s coolest attraction: Instagram them now! ul. Mińska 25 (Soho Factory), neonmuzeum.org
POLIN
Composed of eight galleries, this architectural marvel covers different stages of local Jewish history, from the middle ages to the present day. Highlights of this museum include a staggeringly beautiful replica of the ceiling of Gwoździec synagogue, and a ‘remake’ of a typical inter-war Jewish Warsaw street. That it was named the European Museum of the Year in 2016 such much for its ambitions to focus on more than the Holocaust alone. ul. Anielewicza 6, polin.pl
THE WARSAW RISING MUSEUM
If the throngs and sheer informational overload can often be daunting, it remains the most important museum in the capital, and quite arguably the country. Points of interest are rife and include a life-size replica of a B-24 Liberator plane as well as a claustrophobic ‘sewage tunnel’ through which visitors squeeze to get an idea of the kind of conditions combatants once faced. But it’s not the A-list sights that make the biggest impact, rather the smaller, highly personal curios: a pair of wedding bands forged from bullets; an Omega watch, it’s hands frozen at the same moment a bomb killed its owner; and a lucky cuddly mascot made from a German overcoat. Of course, the aftermath is also covered in heartrending detail and concludes with a 3D film that takes viewers swooping over the smoldering ruins of the capital. ul. Grzybowska 79, 1944.pl
Al.Jerozolimskie
Łazienki Park
Praga
Powązki Cemetery Jewish Cemetery
1
Designer Outlet
Warszawa ul. Puławska 42E, designeroutletwarszawa.pl
2
Galeria Młociny Zgrupowania AK "Kampinos" 15, galeriamlociny.pl
3
Galeria Mokotów ul. Wołoska 12, galeriamokotow.com.pl
4
Galeria Północna ul. Światowida 17, galeriapolnocna.pl
5 Koneser Pl. Konesera, koneser.eu
6
Plac Unii ul. Puławska 2, placunii.pl
7 Mysia 3 ul. Mysia 3, mysia3.pl
8
Westfield Arkadia Al. Jana Pawła II 82, pl.westfield.com/arkadia
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
LOOKING BACK
FADED GRANDEUR
Villa Julia’s haunting past lingers in Otwock
Villa "Julia" in Otwock, Warsaw, is shrouded in mystery and history. Once a majestic residence, it now stands as a ruin, a ghostly reminder of its former grandeur. Built by Maurycy Karstens in the late 19th century, Villa Julia was part of Otwock’s rapid development during its time as a fashionable summer resort for Warsaw’s elite. Known for its unique blend
of architectural styles, the villa reflected Karstens’ wealth and influence.
However, the villa’s golden age was short-lived. Over the decades, Villa Julia changed hands multiple times, eventually falling into disrepair. Its last significant use was in the early 20th century, but after World War II, the once-stunning mansion was abandoned. The villa’s ruins, now overgrown and crumbling, evoke both fascination and sadness for passersby.
Rumors and legends surround Villa Julia, adding to its enigmatic aura. Some locals say the villa is haunted, while others speak of hidden treasures left behind by its wealthy owners. What remains certain is that the villa has become a symbol of Otwock’s forgotten past.
