From square donuts to matcha: A delicious year of food trends in Czechia

A record 47 new brands entered the Czech market in 2024, marking the highest number in history, according to a report by real estate firm Cushman & Wakefield. Food and beverage outlets dominated the influx, reflecting the public’s hunger for established and emerging global food trends like bubble tea and square donuts.

Food brands such as Lviv Croissants and The Box Donut have chosen Prague’s Palladium shopping center to establish flagship stores, signaling the city’s growing role as a testing ground for regional and international brands. This trend reflects the broader movement in global food markets, where consumers increasingly seek a mix of fast, indulgent treats and artisan-inspired experiences.

Other notable casual-dining arrivals include Amerikanos, featuring a themed burger menu in the new Máj department center, and SKA, a fresh Georgian bar now serving energy shots, smoothies, and salads at its second location in Prague's Quadrio shopping center.

“Expanding to Prague is a really important step for us. It is an ideal city thanks to its strategic location in the heart of Europe, a dynamic market, and a large number of like-minded people,” said George Talakhadze, CEO and founder of SKA, which targets young urban professionals looking for quick lunches and offers fresh fruit juices, sandwiches, and its own blend of coffee.

The debut of another Georgian establishment, restaurant Dergi on Revoluční Street, as well as Ukrainian eatery Nai in Kobrov reflects the increasing visibility of Eastern European cuisines on the international food stage—not least due to the influx of Ukrainians in Czechia since 2022.

“While most brands entering the Czech market used to come from Western countries, we now see a clear trend where many of the newcomers are from the East, particularly Ukraine, Poland, Slovakia, and Turkey,” said Jan Kotrbáček of Cushman & Wakefield in an interview with Novinky.cz.

Meanwhile, the new bubble tea chain Makamaka in Jungmannova Street expounds upon Czechs’ tendency to enjoy bubble tea, which was built by Czechia’s substantial Asian-based population.

Beyond larger retail spaces, smaller streets are gaining momentum for niche offerings. Matcha Crew has brought its artisanal matcha creations to Rumunská Street, capitalizing on the wellness movement’s focus on superfoods. Similarly, the French olive oil shop Oliviers & Co in Dlouhá Street reflects a broader global shift toward premium ingredients and home culinary experiences.

Adding a touch of luxury, Le Petit Beefbar, a French-inspired dining concept on Wenceslas Square, found in the new W Prague hotel, signals the ongoing demand for elevated dining options, even as casual formats dominate in other sectors.

The announcement of Wendy’s entering Czechia in 2025 and the long-awaited debut of Five Guys at Máj department store underscores the enduring appeal of American fast-food culture. This is especially relevant following Popeyes’ Czech debut in 2023 and, more recently, KFC's opening of its first European flagship on Wencelsas Square.

Outside of the food sphere, several other international companies are opening outlets in Czechia, underscoring the country’s global business appeal.

Household and furniture brands like SMEG, Kave Home, and Lavish debuted in the Czech market in the last 12 months, alongside notable fashion arrivals such as Bikkembergs in Slovanský dům, JD Sports, and Extreme Hobby in Prague and Ostrava.

Cosmetics saw new entries, including Parfums Christian Dior, Le Labo in Westfield Chodov, and Balmain Hair Couture in Dlouhá.

Kotrbáček also noted that 2025 will bring several prominent new brands to the Czech market. “In the second half of the year, the expanded Černý Most Center is set to open, introducing new brands and concepts. Among the notable entries announced are Bath & Body Works, Wendy’s, Woolworth, and Müller,” he said.