A fter a long day of hiking or skiing, nothing beats a warm cup of coffee and a slice of cake.
Café culture is strong in Zakopane. For Muslim travelers, the main concern is usually gelatin in cakes or alcohol in chocolates. We've curated a list of safe and delicious spots.
Best Cafes
1. Café Tygodnik Podhalański
Perhaps Zakopane's hidden gem with the most spectacular views in the city. Perched on the fourth floor of the Granit Department Store, Café Tygodnik Podhalański is named after the beloved local weekly newspaper — and its walls are lined with photojournalism from its reporters. The large terrace opens up to a breathtaking panorama over the city rooftops towards Giewont and the High Tatras, a view some say rivals Gubałówka — but without the cable car queue.
The menu leans traditional: aromatic loose-leaf teas, quality coffees, and a rotating selection of homemade cakes. It's a calm, unhurried spot — cosy rooms, a children's corner, and locals mingling with curious visitors over a slice of szarlotka. Open from 10:00 daily.
2. STRH Bistro Art Cafe
STRH (an abbreviation of its founders' surnames) is the coolest contemporary spot on Krupówki. Tucked on the third floor of the sleek new Kamienica building, it feels worlds away from the souvenir stalls below. The space doubles as an art gallery: rotating exhibitions, exposed brick, and design-forward furniture create an atmosphere that leans more Berlin than Zakopane.
Their coffee is exceptional — specialty beans, skilled baristas, and a full matcha and smoothie menu for those who want something different. Food is elevated comfort: shakshuka, salmon-avocado toast, seasonal breakfast boards, and an acclaimed apple pie. They also accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets with thoughtful alternatives. Hours: Wed–Mon 8:30 AM – 9:00 PM (closed Tuesday).
3. Góralski Browar
Góralski Browar is arguably the most spectacular restaurant terrace in Zakopane, with sweeping panoramic views of both the High Tatras and Gubałówka. Set on the top floor of the Krupówki 40 shopping complex, the 1,000+ m² space is decked in authentic Góralski style: rough-hewn wood beams, stone accents, and regional motifs — but with a modern hospitality standard.
While it is primarily known as a restaurant and in-house brewery, Góralski Browar is excellent as a café stop. Pop in for coffee and a slice of traditional sernik (Polish cheesecake) or grilled oscypek with cranberry jam. The kitchen is open 10:00–22:00 daily, and the children's zone on the floor below makes this a great family stop after a stroll down Krupówki.
4. Góralska Tradycja
Classic PatisserieLocated on the top floor of the Krupówki 29 shopping center, this café offers commanding views of the Tatra mountains. Their meringue cake (beza) is legendary and fully alcohol-free. A reliable choice for traditional Polish pastries with a safe ingredient profile.
5. Cukiernia Samanta
Multiple LocationsA Zakopane institution since 1927. Staff are very knowledgeable about ingredients and happy to advise. Their ice cream is a local favourite, and the pastry range is classic and extensive. Ask directly about gelatin in cream cakes — they will always know the answer.
Must-Try Desserts
Szarlotka (Apple Pie)
Served warm, often with vanilla ice cream. 100% safe.
Gofry (Waffles)
Street food classic. Top with fresh fruit and whipped cream.
Lody (Ice Cream)
traditional scoop ice cream. "Lody Tradycyjne" shops are everywhere.
Pączki (Donuts)
Rose jam filling is the traditional one. Check for lard (smalec) - most use oil now, but ask "Smażone na oleju?" (Fried in oil?).