05 Feb 2025 
Reading Time: 3 minutes Café Imperial stands as a testament to the city’s rich cultural tapestry and architectural grandeur. Since its inception in 1914, this establishment has seamlessly blended historical significance with culinary excellence, offering patrons an experience that transcends mere dining.
Upon entering Café Imperial, one is immediately captivated by its opulent Art Deco interior, a design masterpiece attributed to architect Jaroslav Benedikt. The café’s high ceilings are adorned with intricate ceramic mosaics, the handiwork of artist Jan Beneš, which lend an air of timeless elegance to the space. The walls and pillars, embellished with colorful tiles and ornate detailing, create an ambiance that harks back to the grandeur of early 20th-century Europe.
Gastro tours
Under the stewardship of renowned Czech chef Zdeněk Pohlreich, Café Imperial has garnered acclaim for its dedication to traditional Czech cuisine, artfully presented with contemporary flair. The menu is a curated selection of robust dishes that pay homage to the nation’s culinary heritage. A standout offering is the veal schnitzel, served alongside creamy mashed potatoes—a dish that exemplifies the café’s commitment to authenticity and quality.
For those seeking a quintessential Czech experience, the “svíčková” comes highly recommended. This marinated sirloin, accompanied by a rich cream sauce and traditional dumplings, has been lauded by patrons as a gastronomic delight.
The dessert selection is equally enticing, featuring classics such as apple strudel and honey cake, each crafted to perfection. Complementing these sweet indulgences is an extensive beverage menu, offering a variety of fine wines, artisanal coffees, and teas to suit every palate.
Café Imperial’s history is as rich as its menu. In the interwar period, it was a favored haunt of luminaries including writer Franz Kafka and composer Leoš Janáček, who found inspiration within its ornate confines.
During World War II, the café became a popular gathering spot for German officers, leading to a decline in local patronage. Following the war, and throughout the communist era, the establishment underwent several transformations, including a period when it was nationalized and renamed the ROH Hotel, accessible exclusively to Communist Party members.
In 2007, a comprehensive restoration effort sought to return Café Imperial to its former glory. Today, it stands not only as a functioning café and restaurant but also as a living museum, preserving the artistic and cultural heritage of Prague for future generations.
Dining at Café Imperial is more than a meal; it’s an immersion into the history and culture of Prague. The harmonious blend of exquisite cuisine, impeccable service, and breathtaking architecture offers a sensory journey that delights and inspires. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a culinary aficionado, or simply seeking an unforgettable experience in the heart of the city, Café Imperial promises to exceed expectations.
In a city replete with historic sites and gastronomic venues, Café Imperial distinguishes itself as a beacon of excellence, inviting guests to step back in time while savoring the finest flavors of the present.t the bridge’s statues, Prague’s Old Town Tower, and the legends that make this city so unique.
