- Meal times
- Lunch is typically served from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM, often with 'denne menu' specials. Dinner usually starts around 6:00 PM and can extend until 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM. Many smaller pubs and eateries are open all day for drinks and snacks.
- Tipping
- It's customary to round up the bill or leave about 5-10% for good service in restaurants and cafes. For a casual drink, rounding up to the nearest convenient amount is fine. Hand the tip directly to the server when they bring the bill, stating the total you wish to pay.
- Water
- Tap water is generally safe to drink throughout Prague, even though bottled water is widely available. Ice in drinks at reputable establishments is safe and made with potable water.
- Vegetarian
- Traditional Czech cuisine is very meat-centric, but vegetarian options like fried cheese (Smažený sýr), pickled cheese (Nakládaný Hermelín), and potato pancakes (Bramboráky) are common. Vegans will find it challenging outside of specific international restaurants; inquire about ingredients for soups and side dishes, asking 'Bez masa' (without meat) or 'bez mléka' (without milk) for clarity.
- Payment
- Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at most restaurants, cafes, and shops. However, it's wise to carry some Czech Koruna (CZK) cash for smaller purchases, street vendors, or very traditional, cash-only pubs.
- Etiquette
- Table manners are generally continental. Wait to be seated in most restaurants. Locals tend to eat quietly and do not rush their meals. It is common to order drinks first, then food, and never leave coins on the table after paying.