Travels to Krakow, Poland

Krakow is the second largest and one of the oldest cities in Poland. Situated in the southern part of the country on the Vistula River, the city dates back to the 7th century. Krakow has traditionally been one of the leading centers of Polish academic, cultural, and artistic life and is one of Poland's most important economic hubs. For many centuries Krakow was the royal capital of Poland, until Sigismund III Vasa relocated the court to Warsaw in 1596.

Gessler at Hotel Francuski

The Francuski Hotel is not only about the sumptuous interiors, the perfectly manicured ambience, great guests, but also excellent cuisine. It is the location of the Gessler restaurant boasting truly extraordinary fame. Some of the greatest Polish chefs have rattled their pots and pans in here. Today, it is run by no-one else but the famous Adam Gessler and his two sons, Mateusz and Adam Szczęsny. Adam Gessler is a fourth generation restaurateur and a truly great figure of European gastronomy.

Ariel

The restaurant, cafe and gallery, Ariel, is located in the very center of Kazimierz, a Jewish quarter of Krakow that is vibrant with life. The name "Ariel" originates in Old Testament.  He is one of four archangels, who appeared on earth in the form of a lion devouring in flames as offerings were put on a temple altar.  He is also known as "Uriel", which translated from Old Hebrew stands for "the Light of God".

Ancora

Polish cuisine abounds in numerous tempting mysteries which are revealed by Chef Adam Chrząstowski at Ancora, in Krakow.  Having returned to Poland, the chef whose dishes had once bewitched gourmets in Shanghai decided to open his signature restaurant and put it as a landmark on the culinary map of Poland. His creative and unique approach to cooking makes all visitors to Ancora return there time and time again, longing for more flavor and pleasure.  Ancora offers a modern twist on traditional Polish cuisine.

Pod Wawelem

Pod Wawelem is a chain throughout Poland that offers a large menu to satisfy all.  We grabbed lunch at the location in Krakow, where the royal road from the Main Market Square Wawel Castle has its end at the foot of Wawel Hill.