Best of Prague 2011

For the past 20 years, we've been trying out all that Prague has to offer, and while many things have changed, some have remained the same. In honor of The Prague Post's 20th anniversary, we asked readers to rate 20 categories of the best this city has to offer. In return, our editorial staff has done the same. The results are in, and this year, we have a strong mix of both newcomers and old standby favorites in both our readers' and editors' choices. So, whether you're looking for a financial adviser or just want to see if your favorite watering hole held its position since last year, we hope the "Best of Prague" selections will help you make the most of your time in the Golden City.

Best café

Readers' choice

Bohemia Bagel

Masná 2, Prague 1-Old Town. Tel. 224 812 560

With locations also in Malá Strana and Holešovice, Bohemia Bagel is the go-to place for bottomless cups of coffee, gargantuan breakfast plates, burgers, burritos and, of course, bagels galore. A good place to get your sandwich fix, either to sit in or takeaway. The casual, diner-esque vibe makes it a good place to prop up for a few hours, catch up on the news or with friends, and to satisfy cravings for American-style, café dining.

Editors' choice

Café Lounge

Plaská 8, Prague 5-Malá Strana. Tel. 257 404 020

Tucked away on an untrafficked side street by Újezd, Café Lounge is a true hidden gem. The welcomingly cozy interior makes for stately lounging, and a mouthwatering menu of light meals and cakes, not to mention coffees and a bevy of hot drinks, makes this place an ideal stop for any sort of refreshment, and indeed, for a refreshment of spirit. Has an interesting weekly menu of hot meals that provide excellent value for money.

Best bar

Readers' choice (tied)

Cloud 9

Pobřežní 1, Prague 8-Karlín. Tel. 224 842 999

A perennial favorite, this upscale lounge-style bar sits on the roof of the Hilton hotel offering prime views of the Vltava and beyond. Its selection of high-end finger foods, signature cocktails, décor and regular live DJs isn't too shabby, either. A place to see and be seen.

Iron Curtain

Michalská 12, Prague 1-Old Town. Tel. 242 480 728

This themed pub is filled to the brim with communist-era artifacts, and while slightly kitschy, it manages to strike that specific chord just right. Live music and food in a beautiful Old Town space pairs well with a varied selection of beers from the folks at K Brewery. It's the most fun anyone ever had with communism.

Editors' choice

Velryba

Opatovická 24, Prague 1-New Town. Tel. 224 931 444

The perfect venue for long discussions solving all that is wrong with the world, over rounds of classic Czech ležák. Tucked just around the corner from the busy Národní třída transit stop in a winding cobblestone alley, it always seems to be just crowded enough to have the appropriate buzz, but also have an empty table or two. It serves crisp beer from the Žatec brewery (a rare find in Prague). While there is a full menu, the selection of traditional pub food to soak up the suds is more notable. Nakládaný hermelín with a side of conversation, anyone? A gallery in the back of the building adds to the ambience.

Best music club

Readers' choice

Red Room

Myslíkova 28, Prague 1-New Town. Tel. 222 520 084

This hangout is an expat staple in Prague, with live music almost every night, foosball and pinball. The prices are standard, but the crowd is always lively and friendly. The Red Room has a calendar of events on its website, which includes an open mic night every Sunday and a variety of performers. It's a nice spot to hang out and always has an interesting collection of art on the walls.

Editors' choice

Palác Akropolis

Kubelíkova 27, Prague 3-Žižkov. Tel. 296 330 911

This historic landmark-turned-nightlife-venue hosts some of the best music acts that come through Prague, as well as one of the best hangout bars in the city. The prices are good, and the recently revamped bar has a better menu than ever. The concert hall is spacious enough for any legitimate act but still small enough to give viewers a feeling of intimacy with the performers.

Best sports bar

Readers' choice

Zlatá hvězda

Ve Smečkách 12, Prague 1-New Town. Tel. 222 960 000

A landmark on par with Charles Bridge for any expat sports fan looking to watch obscure rugby, baseball or any other event being staged in some far corner of the globe at some god-awful hour of the night. It's spacious, has a gaggle of televisions and seemingly the best satellite dish this side of NASA. Call the bar ahead of time, and they will reserve a TV for whatever the heart desires. The food leaves something to be desired, and bring a pair of waders for the bathrooms, but it's all about the game, after all.

Editors' choice

Jáma

V Jámě 7, Prague 1-New Town. Tel. 222 967 081

If it ain't broke, don't fix it. Newer contenders in this category might have fancier televisions (or more of them), but stop by this old standby at 3 a.m. on Super Bowl Sunday, and you'll see it remains a go-to place for fans looking to cheer on their team while quaffing a beverage or two (maybe even a cigar). The selection of sports tends to skew American, and so does the food. Top-notch wings, a rotating selection of unique beers, and a highly reliable burger help that game pass by pleasantly, win or lose. Two newer locations of this Prague institution with slightly more upscale menus also offer a reliable spot to see the big game.

Best Czech restaurant

Readers' choice

CzecHouse Grill & Rotisserie

Pobřežní 1 (in Hilton Prague), Prague 8-Karlín. Tel. 224 841 111

Far above the lowly hospoda, CzecHouse in the Hilton takes first place in both the Czech and Fine Dining categories among readers, a testament to its quality. The high-class restaurant elevates duck and dumplings to something completely new and revolutionary, combining elements from international cuisine to inspire some new takes on the classics, using only the freshest ingredients.

Editors' choice

Lokál

Dlouhá 33, Prague 1-Old Town. Tel. 222 316 265

The Ambiente Group's foray into the Slow Food movement with Lokál proved so successful that it opened another one in Malá Strana. A sleek yet traditional atmosphere, long benches and tables, ample Pilsner and no-nonsense versions of Czech staples make this one of the best places to get an authentic feel - and flavor - of Prague.

Best Asian restaurant

Readers' choice

SaSaZu

Bubenské nábř. 13, Prague 7-Holešovice. Tel. 284 097 455

SaSaZu has been a hit since it arrived on the scene, and its creative, showbiz takes on Southeast Asian cuisine and fusion flavorings have earned it Bib Gourmand status from the folks at Michelin. Clearly, our readers concur, and the inimitable vibe of nightclub-meets-glitz-and-glamour is the best place to chow on meals prepared by chef Shahaf Shabtay.

Editors' choice

The Pind

Korunní 67 (entrance on U Vodárny), Prague 3-Vinohrady. Tel. 222 516 085

Despite there having been several curry houses around town, it took the opening of The Pind for Indian food to reach cult status in Prague, and other places have followed suit. The Pind has addictively reasonable prices for top-notch spiced dishes, a variety of less common regional specialties and a staff that even takes special requests for cravings or dietary needs. The lunchtime buffet for 109 Kč is an especially good deal.

Best Italian restaurant

Readers' choice

Ichnusa Botega & Bistro

Plaská 5, Prague 5-Malá Strana. Tel. 605 525 748

This tiny, but slightly expanded, Malá Strana restaurant could exist on its own somewhere in Italy or, more accurately, on the island of Sardinia, as its brusque wait staff offers you the standard Mediterranean option of "meat or fish" (one of which is a succulent horse steak), then expands its offerings to include rich and authentic pasta courses, lightly dressed and refreshing salad courses, as well as a fantastic Sardinian flatbread that accompanies the delicious antipasti plates. If you're in to people watching, Prime Minister Petr Nečas is known to dine here often.

Editors' choice

Trattoria Cicala

Žitná 43 , Prague 2-New Town. Tel. 222 210 375

Visits to restaurants that feature international cuisine often suffer the same fate - too much of the home country's cooking seeps into the menu. Trattoria Cicala is a welcome respite from Prague's many "Italian-inspired" restaurants as it is owned and operated exclusively by an Italian family, all of whom seem to do a little bit of everything. The man who seats you is often the same person who prepares the restaurant's traditional southern Italian fare. Pastas with red sauce - some with meat, some with seafood - and other no-frills staples are in abundance. And if the family takes a shine to you, expect a free shot of grappa before you leave.

Best fine-dining

Readers' choice

CzecHouse Grill & Rotisserie

Pobřežní 1 (in Hilton Prague), Prague 8-Karlín. Tel. 224 841 111

It's a fitting tribute to this fair town that a Czech restaurant would rank so high in fine dining. And this isn't just any Czech restaurant: a consistent favorite in the Hilton Prague known for its modern take on Czech classics, as well as international innovations. The menu changes seasonally and always features upscale takes on local and global dishes that feature top-notch ingredients like prime beef or fresh lobster. A worthy treat.

Editors' choice

La Degustation Boheme Bourgeoise

Haštalská 18, Prague 1-Old Town. Tel. 222 311 234

La Degustation is more of a spiritual experience than a restaurant, and dining there a revelation. Set aside a few hours to be walked through course after course of chef Oldřich Sahajdák, based on inspiration from recipes found in a 19th-century cookbook by Marie Svobodová. Ingredients are all sourced from local organic farms and small Czech producers, making for an unforgettable meal.

Best hotel

Readers' choice

Mosaic House

Odborů 4, Prague 2-New Town. Tel. 246 008 324

Part hotel, part hostel and all green, Mosaic House appeals to both the business traveler and backpackers with the right mix of style for the right price. You can also feel good about your impact on the environment as it is known as one of the first "green" hotels in the Czech Republic, using 100 percent electricity from renewable sources, biogas and a gray-water recycling system.

Editors' choice

Marriott

V Celnici 8, Prague 1-New Town. Tel. 222 888 888

While Prague offers a wide range of hotels featuring many specialized amenities, the Marriott can fulfill every desire or need with onsite facilities like fine dining, bars, cafés, a health center, spa and conference facilities. Conveniently located in the city center near the Náměstí Republiky metro station, and just a few short steps away from one of the largest shopping malls, Palladium, it has everything a traveler could want.

Best financial services

Readers' choice

Česká spořitelna

Csas.cz

Česká spořitelna is a bank that makes it a priority to cater to foreigners with their Expat Services that guarantees service in English, German and French. The Expat Center offers two customized financial packages that include features like foreign exchange accounts, leasing and brokerage services, as well as a handy fitness center, language schools and dental clinic discounts.

Editors' choice

mBank

Mbank.cz

This bank provides a welcome relief from the fees associated with a lot of services in many other banks and branches in the Czech Republic. The Polish bank has been present on the Czech market since November 2007 and offers a pretty cut-and-dry deal with free account administration, incoming payments and savings accounts with no minimum account turnover or regular payments. It is all online, though, and doesn't feature many extra services.

Best real estate agency

Readers' choice

Home Sweet Home

Politických vězňů 5, Prague 1-Old Town. Tel. 222 312 488

Whether you are buying, selling or renting, Home Sweet Home is able to offer up a full range of real estate services including short- and long-term rentals, sales of residential and commercial properties and land and their Buy-2-Let program for investors. Founded by a team of agents with more than 10 years' experience on the Prague market, they have brokers who speak fluent English, French, German, Russian, Spanish, Italian and Portuguese. All advice is "no-strings attached," and they even have an in-house lawyer on staff.

Editors' choice

FIM Group Real Estate

Husova 5, Prague 1-Old Town. Tel. 224 212 740

With an aim to help create more comfortable and livable cities and increase technology to reduce the impact on the environment, FIM Group has become a major player in Europe, especially on the Czech market. With more than 50 years of experience from residential to office real estate, FIM Group has been sensitively reconstructing historic architecture throughout Prague for commercial, retail and residential projects.

Best taxi service

Readers' and editors' choice

AAA Radio Taxi

Tel. 222 333 222

While it might not always be the best bang for your buck, AAA Radio Taxi consistently outranks its competitors in terms of service, convenience and cleanliness. One of the most convenient rides to and from Prague Ruzyně Airport, the yellow cars have set pickup spots at the main railway station, and customers can get 47 percent discounts on return rides. No matter where you are in the city or what time it is, you can order a fast, reliable ride 24-7 by phone, SMS or e-mail, a real convenience for those late nights when one drink turns into a few too many.

Best airline

Readers' choice

Czech Airlines

Csa.cz

The most widely used airline in the Czech Republic, Czech Airlines flies to 47 countries worldwide with destinations in most major European and Asian cities. Although amenities are modest and prices can fluctuate depending on dates and times, the prices for long-haul international flights are very competitive, and your boarding pass can get you 30 percent discounts at museums, restaurants and shops throughout Prague.

Editors' choice

Emirates

Emirates.com

For flying in style, there's no better choice than Emirates. With unrivaled pampering in the first-class cabin like onboard shower spas, luxurious private suites, a spacious bar and lounge and excellent food, it's no wonder the airline's five-hour direct flight from Prague to Dubai has become popular with travelers. The airline continues to spread its wings in 2012 with new destinations out of Dubai to Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires.

Best school

Readers' choice

English International School

Eisp.cz

In a quiet Prague 4 neighborhood, the English International School combines learning and play in a top-notch facility with highly qualified and motivated staff. With a teaching program based on the National Curriculum of England, the school offers students ages 2-18 years old quality education in a state-of-the-art school that includes extensive sports fields. High-school students can prepare for the International Baccalaureate Diploma exams, and in addition to their rigorous studies, students are encouraged to participate in an array of public service and volunteer activities in the Czech Republic and abroad.

Editors' choice

Riverside School

Riversideschool.cz

With a newly opened high school at Hradčanská, the Riverside School takes learning beyond the classroom. Accredited by the Council of International Schools, in addition to Riverside's focus on core academics, the Skills for Life Program teaches children skills they can develop after the school day finishes, like golf, pony riding, swimming and water sports. The parent-teacher associations are essential to life at Riverside School, and the school's calendar is packed with events the whole family is invited to, which makes integrating in a foreign country much more comfortable.

Best bookstore

Readers' choice (tied)

The Globe Bookstore & Café

Pštrossova 6, Prague 1-New Town. Tel. 224 934 203

The Globe is the kind of bookstore and café that many people think about when they daydream about traveling through Europe with a rucksack and a journal. With a wide selection of English-language books, magazines and newspapers, this is the type of place where you could spend a whole afternoon. Also offering regular readings, concerts and film screenings, The Globe is an English-language cultural beacon in Prague.

Palác knih Luxor

Václavské nám. 41, Prague 1-New Town. Tel. 296 110 372

Billed as "the largest bookstore in the Czech Republic," Palác knih Luxor is a multifloored book emporium specializing in Czech-language books but also offering a large selection of English-language options, from the latest novels to travel guides, history books, coffeetable books and Prague literature. Step out of the hustle and bustle of Wenceslas Square and into this palace of the printed word.

Editors' choice

Shakespeare and Sons

U lužického semináře, Prague 1-Malá Strana. Tel. 257 531 894

The only bookstore in Prague to specialize in new and used books of English-language literature, general interest and literary criticism, Shakespeare and Sons is a literary oasis just steps from Charles Bridge. If you can't find what you're looking for upstairs, try the basement, where a voluminous collection of used books awaits in a historic cellar with arched ceilings. The shop also plays host to regular readings and discussions from local and visiting English-language writers and intellectuals. Leaving town? Shakespeare and Sons is also one of the few places that will purchase your used books for cash or store credit.

Best performing arts theater

Readers' choice

National Theater

Ostrovní 1, Prague 1-New Town. Tel. 224 901 448

One cannot overemphasize the beauty and grandeur of the National Theater, a 130-year-old building that is the place to go for the best performances, including ballet, drama, opera and concerts. There is no theater more beloved by Czechs, and for good reason. Besides its regular cast of local theater and music stars, the National Theater also regularly invites distinguished foreign performers, set designers and choreographers to take part in performances. If you're just visiting Prague or if you're a long-term resident looking for your dose of culture, look no further than the National Theater.

Editors' choice

Archa Theater

Na Poříčí 26, Prague 1-New Town. Tel. 221 716 111

Archa Theater is something like the alternative National Theater. Simply put, Archa has hosted the best performances to hit Prague in recent years, from American indie bands like Wilco and The National to visits from the radical Belgian dance troupe Ultima Vez, and exciting repertoire performances like Here I Am Human, featuring The Tiger Lilies. The size of the theater is small enough that one always feels in the intimate presence of the performers, yet large enough to give each show a real sense of occasion. Not every performance at Archa will suit you, but there is always more than enough to choose from - and some exciting choices, too.

Best art gallery

Readers' choice

DOX Gallery

Poupětova 1, Prague 7-Holešovice. Tel. 295 568 123

DOX has established itself in a short period of time as the leading private exhibition hall in Prague. Complete renovations and constructions were finished this year, giving way to ambitious exhibitions such as the respected Jindřich Chalupecký Prize finalists and the popular exhibition Lucifer Effect dealing with the nature of evil in modern society.

Editors' choice (tied)

Museum Kampa

U Sovových mlýnů 2, Prague 1-Malá Strana. Tel. 257 286 147

Founded by noted art collector Meda Mládková, the Kampa Museum exhibits quality art collections from the second half of 20th century mainly by Central European artists. Its location, on Kampa Island, is also considered one of the most beautiful places in Prague. The museum hosted number of attractive exhibitions in 2011 including the homage to Zdeněk Sýkora, paintings by František Kupka, Arnold Schönberg and Wassily Kandinsky.

Dvorak Sec Gallery

Dlouhá 5, Prague 1-Old Town. Tel. 604 204 653

A storefront gallery just off Old Town Square, Dvorak Sec focuses on contemporary art, exhibiting the most cutting-edge artists from around the world. Not limited to any specific genre, the gallery has in recent months shown paintings, sculpture and video installations, as well as its permanent exhibition of the best-known contemporary Czech artists.

Best health & wellness

Readers' choice

Holmes Place

Second floor, OC Nový Smíchov, Plzeňská 8, Prague 5-Smíchov (and other locations). Tel. 257 313 830

Holmes Place is among the best gyms in Prague because of its top-of-the-line equipment, with cardio zones filled with treadmills and step-mills incorporating TV screens running English-language programs, but also for its spa offerings like Jacuzzis, saunas and steam-rooms. A wide variety of classes, personal trainers and a convenient membership program are also a big draw for fitness enthusiasts. The Smíchov and Černý most branches also offer children's classes as well as a child care center. Free day passes are available for those who want to test run the facility first.

Editors' choice

World Class

Václavské nam. 22, Prague 1-New Town (and other locations). Tel. 234 699 100

Located in the very center of Prague, it suits the needs of everyone trying to get in shape from the average person to the professionals with high-performance equipment and personal trainers who speak English. Each location also has the best classes offered including the ever-popular Zumba, Pilates and yoga but also specially designed classes like Booty Express or Core Express. For those looking for something extra, the branch called Health Academy has a hot tub and swimming pool.

Best shopping center

Readers' choice

Palladium

nám. Republiky 1, Prague 1-New Town. Tel. 225 770 250

Praised for its location, quality of goods and range of shops and services, Palladium remains a favorite for visitors and locals alike. Boasting both international and Czech brands such as the popular fashion chain Pietro Filipi, the multilevel shopping center has something for everyone. Hungry? The top floor is home to a variety of restaurants and cafés not typically found in malls, like Tretter's Café, Indian Chanchala or Lebanese El Emir, Uruguayan steakhouse Las Ruinas or Angus Steak House, offering the best steaks from a Czech eco-farm.

Editors' choice

Chodov Shopping Mall

Roztylská 19, Prague 4-Chodov. Tel. 272 173 600

Only 15 minutes from Prague's main shopping area around Wenceslas Square by metro, Chodov Shopping Mall boasts the greatest variety with the largest amount of shops in the country, making the trek a rewarding experience. In addition to popular chain stores like Spanish Bershka or Pull & Bear, you can find services like hairdressers, shoe cleaners, mobile operators and travel agencies. The food court also is worth the travel, with decent prices for quality food.

Best beer

Readers' choice

Pilsner Urquell

No surprise, here. Call it what you like - by its official Czech name, its shortened form (Plzeň), or its familiar global name (Pilsner Urquell) - this venerable national icon would win most taste tests around the country just about any day of the week. And it probably does, for good reason. Even though its competition seems to increase each and every year, the smooth head that seems to last for days and the rich, hoppy flavor keeps it in the top spot for our readers once again.

Editors' choice

Demon

In the land of "světlé nebo tmavé?" the K Brewery family of beers is putting out what is probably one of the country's best ambers. It's the perfect in-between beer: You wouldn't suck 'em down at the beach, but it's not so thick you could chew it, either. It's a great beer to enjoy slowly and actually translates into a pretty capable food beer. Its spicy aroma and burnt-caramel flavor is more befitting its coppery color than is its slightly fruity finish, but it's a refreshing change from the norm in Pilsner country.

Congratulations and many thanks to all those who voted!

Best of Prague 2011 prize winners

1. Kate Janečková, Prague

2. Annely Aasalaid, Prague

3. Thomas Szende, Prague

4. Lukas Jezbera, Prague

5. Pavlína Hanzalová, Prague

6. Laus Sorensen, Prague

7. Monika Tutterová, Prague

8. Miroslav Kopecký, Kutná Hora

9. Rudolf Korbelář, Trutnov

10. Anna Borina, Prague

11. Soňa Illner Pajerová, Prague

12. Mirka Hofmanová, Prague

13. Ondřej Vymětalík, Lysá nad Labem

14. Melin Dokmeci, Istanbul

15. Alice Bělejová, Prague

16. Lubomir Obsnajdr, Prague

17. Roman Patočka, Prague

18. Marek Boroš, Prague

19. Alexandre Gausson, Prague

20. Ola Often Sveen, Prague