Krakow’s Best Pierogi: Zapiecek

Smiling faces, quaintness and delicious food. These are three of the reasons why I love the Krakow. They’re also three of the reasons why I love Zapiecek. Though they have a menu that encompasses many options beyond what I’ve listed below, I’m somewhat embarrassed to say I can’t venture away from these delicious little dumplings and potato pancakes. A few times I’ve eaten here more than once in a day and still can’t quite get enough of my favorites. For these reasons, I believe Zapiecek makes Krakow’s best pierogi. But they don’t stop there. The menu offers many other great selections as well.

On cold and rainy days when I’m far from Krakow, my mind seems to drift to Zapiecek and some of my favorite comfort food Europe has to offer.

Zapiecek’s Pierogi & Potato Pancakes

When I first traveled to Krakow in the summer of 2012 this little mom and pop shop was still serving their delicious pierogi and potato pancakes on paper plates with plastic silverware. In the three years since, it seems Krakow has continued to grow as a favored tourist mecca in Europe. It also meant an apparent upgrade for Zapiecek as they’ve redone the interior of the restaurant and upgraded from paper plates and plastic utensils to proper dinnerware.

One thing that hasn’t changed is the quality of their food. It remains one of my favorite little mom and pop shops in all of Europe. With their 24 hours of operation each day, they are also one of the most convenient places to eat at all hours, for those late nightlife celebrations that tend to become the norm in this city, famous for its buildings as well as its bars and clubs.

All of Zapiecek’s pierogi recipes are fantastic. Based on how much time someone has in the city, or if they happen to be with a group, I would recommend trying several kinds. My two favorites are the beef pierogi and the ones stuffed with potato and bacon. Add a little sour cream on the side and prepare yourself for an incredible combination of savory, a hint of sweetness from the carmelized onion topping and the rich creaminess of the sour cream.

Vegetarian options include mushroom, spinach, and potato & cheese.

Another personal favorite are Zapiecek’s famous potato pancakes.

A great addition when dining with a friend or two, the portion size makes them difficult to finish alongside a plate of pierogi but it can be done (just not by me, apparently).

My plate of beef pierogi, potato pancakes and a coffee this was around $10 with a tip. This would be adequate to fill two people, in my opinion. Though I was starving and feeling a bit gluttonous, I couldn’t finish everything.

Factoring in value, flavor, take-away options and the fact that Zapiecek is open 24 hours near Krakow’s Market Square, this is one of the best deals you’ll find in the city.

Zapiecek’s Location