Morskie Oko — Restaurant in Krakow

Do not fall for the hype about this restaurant. This had to be the biggest disappointment of any restaurant or café we dined at during our three-week stay in Krakow and Budapest. First, it would take us four days before we could finally get a reservation at this restaurant after reading so many wonderful reviews. The first time we went to the restaurant for dinner, we did not have a reservation, and we were hoping to still get a table. We were confronted at the front door area almost immediately by the rudest waitress we met during our entire stay, who in no uncertain terms, made us feel like idiots for not having any reservations, then turned and walked away. After that experience you would think we learned our lesson, but nope, we went back for more. We were able to make reservations on our final night before leaving for Budapest for 1800 hours. When we arrived, we were shown to our table, which was in a small, what I would call the upper dungeon area, that had approximately 5 or 6 tables scrammed into this tight space, and it was like a sauna, so very hot. We asked before even ascending the stairs if we could sit where they had the band or at least on the ground floor. We were told all the tables had been reserved and this was the only table available. If you look at the attached photos, you will see that there were many tables available both on the first floor and in the basement, where the band was playing. The tables on the first floor, some of them remained empty the entire time we were there. As for the service, it was acceptable but the staff was definitely not very friendly and our food was acceptable, but nothing worth the prices they were charging. Before leaving, I went downstairs to where the band was playing and again (see photos) saw numerous empty tables, but we had to dine in what can only be described as a sauna. We also observed that all the diner’s downstairs appeared to be locals, and everyone in our dining area were foreigners, everyone was speaking English. We even talked with our fellow diners, and we all seemed to feel that we were not welcomed in this restaurant and if you are a local, you are treated better. We have been doing reviews of restaurants around the world and this review is probably one of the worst ratings we have given. We would not recommend this restaurant to anyone, bad and dismiss attitudes with many of the staff, high prices for food which can be found elsewhere at much better prices, like just around the corner from this location. Total disappointment,...

I was many times in Morskie oko before and I always enjoyed going there. I used to have a great opinion of it. Sure it would have been a great deal I went there to celebrate new years eve with my relatives. As previously agreed we came to the restaurant at the indicated time (8pm). I was thinking that the dinner would be slow and we could enjoy the atmosphere. Waiters were rushing like crazy. Not even the time to sit comfortably that our waitress started to serve us the aperitif. Ok... But then as sure as you finished that she was serving us the first course (pierogi), which were good, I admit. Lamb ones, good ones. As soon as she saw our plates empty she served us the main course. It was very heavy, dry, low quality meat. I was so full already due to the rush that I was not able even to enjoy the main course. The waiters were just trying to get rid of us as quickly as possible. This happened to all tables from that evening, as far as I could see. The fun fact is that after people were leaving no one else was coming, so it was just a matter of making the job done as quickly as possible. Dessert was ok. In the middle of the evening, we broke a glass, it was on the floor (our fault). The waitresses were literally seeing it and jumping over it at full speed. Not even the chance to stop them to tell them. 2 other waiters saw it, none of them bothered to do anything about it. Our waitress finally had a chance to realize. But for like 10-15 minutes none was picking it up. So I did it myself since it was dangerous. On top of that, a huge table full of Italian people (in their 40ies-60ies) was sitting basically next to us: apart from them being loud from the very beginning, after a while they got drunk and they were screaming, singing and behaving inappropriately with the staff and disturbing basically everyone on that floor. Staff did not do anything to address such behaviour from that group of people. I am Italian myself and certain behaviour is something I am very ashamed of. Overall very bad experience. The restaurant has beautiful interiors, but service and food quality are now not...

While wandering the charming streets of Kraków a bit late in the evening, we stumbled upon a hidden gem just off the city’s main square: Morskie Oko. From the moment you step in, the beautifully carved wooden entrance sets the tone. The place is surprisingly spacious, with a large lower-level dining area, and its interior feels like stepping into a medieval lodge — warm, rustic, and full of character.

For starters, I went with the famous pierogi, a staple of Polish cuisine. They were perfectly cooked, generously filled, and packed with flavor. They came with a side of red cabbage — nothing extravagant, but I’ve always had a soft spot for well-prepared cabbage, and this one was spot on.

For the main dish, I chose the traditional Bigos, also known as hunter's stew. This iconic Polish recipe, a hearty blend of different meats and vegetables, was absolutely divine. Rich, balanced, and deeply comforting — the kind of dish that stays with you long after the last bite.

To end on a sweet note, I had a homemade hot chocolate topped with whipped cream, velvety and satisfying, along with a slice of caramel cake — dense, sweet, and indulgent.

The service was equally memorable. Our waiter was kind, attentive, and very welcoming, which only added to the experience.

If you’re looking to immerse yourself in authentic Polish cuisine in a cozy and enchanting setting, I wholeheartedly recommend Morskie Oko — it’s a delicious journey you...