Where to celebrate St. Martin’s in Prague: six spots for classic Czech comfort food

There’s nothing like rich, soul-warming meals to make these chilly autumn days feel a little brighter. From slow-braised meats and savory sauces to golden roast duck and flavorful soups, Prague’s restaurants embrace the season with dishes that invite you to settle in and savor every bite. 

St. Martin’s Day, celebrated on Nov. 11, adds a festive twist to these autumn classics, centering on roast goose, cabbage, and dumplings. It’s a tradition inspired by the fourth-century saint whose acts of generosity became the stuff of legend. Marek Fichtner, executive chef at Červený Jelen, provided his picks for where you can go to experience a classic St. Martin’s Day feast, as well as a few spots where the sentiment of the season lingers just a bit longer.

Autumn seems to bring out the best in Červený Jelen; that golden afternoon light filtering through the vast beer hall off Náměstí Republiky, the low hum of conversation, and hearty meals that feel perfectly in sync with the season’s slower pace. Chef Fichtner is known for his reimagining of beloved Czech dishes like svíčková and slow-braised goulash. His St. Martin’s menu, available Nov. 8-11, will combine time-honored traditions (think velvety sauces, rich soups, and slow-roasted meats) with modern cuisine, transforming the goose-and-wine feast into a truly one-of-a-kind experience.  

Tucked in a breathtaking 15th-century house directly across from Old Town’s Astronomical Clock, 420 brings a creative touch to Czech cuisine. Michelin‑starred chef Radek Kašpárek and his team give traditional recipes a modern look, infusing a distinct flair into each dish without compromising their authenticity. Here, you’ll find local favorites like pulled beef shoulder served with Albufera sauce and aronia berries, and a fire‑grilled venison loin marinated in juniper with chimichurri, wild broccoli, and pickled mushrooms. The kitchen’s special St. Martin’s offer will run from Nov. 7-11.

U Matěje’s approach is refreshingly simple: no tiny portions, no frou‑frou; just hearty meals cooked with confidence. A symbol of honest Czech cuisine at its best, this cozy, wood-paneled Dejvice haunt is the perfect place to hunker down with friends as autumn chills over Prague. Chef Jan Punčochář champions dishes like butter salmon, veal schnitzel, and confit duck leg with potato “lepenice” and onion. The seasonal goose is divine—golden, crispy, and paired with perfect braised cabbage. Stop by for a St. Martin’s meal from Nov. 11-14.   

For anyone craving an elegant take on Czech comfort food, Next Door by Imperial is a must. Led by acclaimed chef Zdeněk Pohlreich, this stylish spot transforms local mainstays into refined, soul-warming dishes. Favorites like braised beef in creamy sauce with bread dumplings or roast duck leg with caramelized cabbage deliver pure seasonal satisfaction. The cozy Art Deco interiors and attentive wait service make this spot particularly inviting during chilly evenings. Pohlreich’s much-touted St Martin’s menu (on offer Nov. 7-16) is not to be missed.

Chef Tomáš Černý is known for turning familiar dishes into something genuinely special, making Dejvická 34 one of the city’s go-to spots during the St. Martin’s Day season. The celebrated chef’s signature roast goose is prepared with the care and precision that define his kitchen. The à la carte menu, meanwhile, balances local roots with European flair, featuring dishes like veal tongue with lentils or slow-braised meats that deliver deep, honest flavors. This bright, modern space feels polished but relaxed, an ideal spot to linger over a glass of wine and a festive dinner.  

For those looking to savor their St. Martin’s goose in a relaxed atmosphere, you can’t go wrong with Dock House, where generous portions meet skillful grilling in a space buzzing with energy and character. Executive Chef Vratislav Oehm showcases prime cuts with precision, serving rib‑eye and Brazilian picanha on lava‑stone grates that highlight his expertise. The restaurant offers a modern pub-grill experience, making it perfect for casual dinners or festive gatherings. The kitchen will offer a special St. Martin’s menu on Nov. 11–12, featuring traditional roast goose paired with inventive sides.