The Mazury region is famous not only for its beautiful lakes and landscapes, but also for its rich culinary tradition, which can be discovered in local restaurants. The first stop on our culinary map is 'Łapa Niedźwiedzia Kuchnia & Pub' in Mragowo. This charming restaurant is located in a historic building on Dolny Zaulek, just steps from the shore of Lake Czos. The history of the place dates back to the 1930s, when the building served as a warehouse for local fishermen. Today, after careful renovation, it impresses with an interior that combines rustic character with modern touches. The restaurant's specialty is game dishes - especially recommended is wild boar stew with forest mushrooms, prepared according to a recipe passed down in the owners' family for three generations. Prices at the 'Bear's Paw' are kept at an average level, which, combined with generous portions, makes the place attractive to families and groups of friends.

Nearby, in Mrągowo's Small Market Square, is the 'Ratuszowa Restaurant' - a gem set in the historic 1824 building of the former town hall. The interior has retained its original architectural elements, including impressive vaulted ceilings and wooden ceiling beams. Legend has it that a treasure was hidden in the restaurant's basement during the Swedish wars, which is still waiting to be discovered. The 'Ratuszowa' menu focuses on traditional Masurian dishes with influences from German and Lithuanian cuisine, reflecting the complex history of the region. The flagship dish is 'Mazurski Przysmak' - a composition of local meats, cheeses and pickles, ideal as an appetizer to share. The restaurant also offers an impressive selection of regional liquors, including a unique liqueur made from deren, prepared according to a recipe dating back to the 18th century. Prices here are slightly higher than at the 'Bear's Paw,' but the quality and historical context fully compensate for this.

The third Masurian stop is 'Restauracja Polonia' on Warszawska Street in Mrągowo. This establishment, which has been in continuous operation since the 1970s, underwent a major makeover in 2015, but retains its distinctive, somewhat nostalgic atmosphere. The interior is decorated with black-and-white photographs documenting the city's history, and in the summer season guests can enjoy the spacious terrace overlooking the city park. 'Polonia' is famous for its fish dishes - especially the pike-perch in dill sauce, caught in nearby Lake Juno. An interesting fact is that the restaurant organizes cyclical 'Evenings with History', during which local historians talk about the history of Mragowo to the accompaniment of traditional Masurian music. Price-wise, 'Polonia' ranks between 'Bear's Paw' and 'Town Hall', offering good value for money.

Leaving Mragowo, it's worth heading to Mikolajki, where 'Restaurant w Zatoce' awaits on the shores of Lake Mikolajskie. This modern establishment, opened in 2018, has quickly won praise from tourists and locals alike. Located on Spacerowa Avenue, it offers breathtaking views of the lake and marina. The interior is decorated in a nautical style, with large glass windows maximizing contact with the water. The menu focuses on fresh fish and seafood, though you'll also find classics of Polish cuisine in a modern interpretation. Particularly recommendable is the fish soup with seafood, prepared according to the recipe of the chef, who gained experience in coastal Croatian restaurants. 'Restaurant in the Bay' is among the more expensive establishments in the region, but the unique location and high quality of the dishes justify the higher prices.

The last Masurian stop is 'Restaurant KASZTAN' in Reszel - a small, picturesque town with a rich history. The restaurant is housed in a restored 19th century building, which originally served as an inn for travelers heading to the castle of the bishops of Warmia. The interior impresses with its rustic character, with stone walls and wooden furniture made by local craftsmen. The 'KASZTANA' menu is a true journey through traditional Warmian-Masurian cuisine, with such specialties as 'Dzyndzałki' - regional dumplings with meat and mushroom filling, or 'Plińce' - potato pancakes served with sour cream and crackling. The restaurant is also famous for its homemade baked goods, including the legendary knot cake prepared according to a recipe passed down in the owner's family for five generations. Prices at 'KASZTAN' are affordable, which, combined with the authenticity of the dishes served, makes this place a must-stop for lovers of regional cuisine.

Leaving the picturesque Masuria, our culinary journey leads to Mazovia, where the first stop is the 'Gród Mazowiecki Restaurant' in Szymaki. This unique establishment, opened in 2012, was built on the model of a medieval settlement. The entire complex consists of thatched wooden huts, surrounded by a palisade and a moat, which creates a unique atmosphere transporting guests to distant times. According to local accounts, a settlement of the Mazovian tribe existed here in the 11th century, and during the construction of the restaurant fragments of pottery from that period were discovered. The interior is decorated with replicas of medieval tools, weapons and everyday objects, and the staff is dressed in historical costumes. The menu of 'Gród Mazowiecki' is based on traditional dishes prepared using methods known for centuries - meats roasted over an open fire, soups cooked in clay pots, breads baked in a wood-fired oven. The restaurant's specialty is the 'Prince's Feast' - a rich set of meats, grits, vegetables and breads, served on wooden boards, ideal for 3-4 people. Prices here are average, but the unique experience and abundance of dishes make a visit worth every penny.

Not far from Warsaw, in Mała Wieś, there is 'Stara Wozownia Restaurant'. - an elegant establishment located in the historic buildings of a former manor house. The history of the place dates back to the 18th century, when it belonged to the Lubomirski family. The coach house building, which houses the restaurant, has been carefully restored, preserving the original architectural elements, including the impressive wooden ceiling beams and brick walls. The interior combines rustic character with elegance, creating a sophisticated but cozy atmosphere. The 'Old Coach House' menu is based on seasonal produce, often sourced from local suppliers. The chef, who gained experience in renowned restaurants in France, creates dishes that combine Polish tradition with modern culinary techniques. Particularly worthy of recommendation is the deer haunch with forest fruit sauce and mashed Jerusalem artichoke - a dish that won an award in the 'Mazovian Flavors' competition. The restaurant also has an impressive wine cellar, with a selection of more than 100 labels from around the world. "Stara Wozownia" is among the more expensive establishments in the region, but the unique atmosphere and top-level culinary experience fully justify the higher prices.

The next stop on our culinary map is 'Brytfanna' in Dobre Lasek - a small town on the border of Mazury and Mazovia. This family-run restaurant, in operation since 2016, is housed in a restored country house from the early 20th century. The owners, a couple passionate about regional cuisine, have created a place that combines a homely atmosphere with a professional approach to cooking. The interior is decorated in a country style, with furniture made by local craftsmen and decorations referring to the traditions of the region. As the name suggests, the restaurant's specialty is casseroles prepared in cast-iron baking pans - from classic meat dishes to fish and vegetarian options. All dishes are prepared from scratch, using products from local farms and the restaurant's own herb garden. Especially worth trying is the 'Mazurian Brytfanna' - a composition of local cold cuts, sausages, black pudding and potatoes, baked with cheese and cream. Prices at 'Brytfanna' are affordable, which, combined with the homey atmosphere and the authenticity of the dishes served, attracts both tourists and locals.

Leaving Mazovia, we head to Borek Wielkie in Warmia, where 'KARCZMA U MAZURA' awaits us. This establishment, which has been operating for more than 25 years, is a true institution in the region, run by the same couple since it opened. The inn is housed in a wooden building styled as a traditional Warmian cottage, with a characteristic porch and thatched roof. The interior is decorated with authentic farm equipment, agricultural tools and furnishings of Warmian houses from the 19th and early 20th centuries, collected by the owners during numerous trips to the surrounding villages. According to local stories, some of these items have magical properties, and the inn is said to be home to the friendly spirit of the former innkeeper, who watches over the quality of the food served. The 'U MAZURA' menu is the essence of Varmia cuisine, with such specialties as 'Czernina' - soup made from duck blood with dried fruit, 'Farszynki' - minced cutlets with barley groats, or 'Brukowiec Mazurski' - traditional carrot cake. All dishes are prepared according to recipes passed down in the owner's family for generations. Prices here are extremely affordable, which, combined with generous portions and the authenticity of the place, attracts guests from all over Poland.

The last stop on this part of our culinary journey is the 'Raspberry Forest Restaurant' in Nowa Wieś near Krakow. This relatively new establishment, which opened in 2019, has quickly gained recognition for its innovative approach to traditional Malopolska cuisine. The restaurant is housed in a modern, eco-friendly building, harmoniously integrated into the surrounding forest. Large glass windows allow guests to admire nature while dining, and on warm days you can enjoy the spacious terrace. The owners of 'Raspberry Forest' run their own organic farm, which supplies most of the products used in the kitchen. The menu changes seasonally, depending on the availability of ingredients, but is always based on local culinary traditions with a creative, modern twist. Particularly recommendable are 'Pierogi with Young Cabbage and Kwaśnica'. - an author's interpretation of a classic dish, and 'Trout from Own Farm' - fish smoked on fruit wood and served with a sauce of forest herbs. The restaurant also offers an impressive selection of homemade liquors, including a unique forest raspberry and elderflower liqueur. Prices at 'Raspberry Forest' are average to high, but the quality of the products, the creativity of the dishes and the unique location fully justify the higher bill.

Comparing all ten restaurants in our guide reveals a fascinating diversity in regional cuisine approach, atmosphere and prices. For lovers of authentic, traditional flavors, the best choices would be 'KARCZMA U MAZURA' in Borki Wielkie and 'KASZTAN Restaurant' in Reszel. Both places offer dishes prepared according to recipes passed down from generation to generation, at affordable prices. 'KARCZMA U MAZURA' is distinguished by its exceptionally rich collection of regional artifacts and over 25 years of history, while 'KASZTAN' boasts unique Varmia specialties, such as 'Dzyndzałki' and homemade knot cake.

For those who appreciate the historical context and atmosphere of the old days, the 'Ratuszowa Restaurant' in Mragowo and the 'Gród Mazowiecki Restaurant' in Szymaki are ideal choices. 'Ratuszowa', located in a 19th-century building of the former town hall, offers elegant interiors and a menu combining Masurian, German and Lithuanian traditions, in the middle price range. The 'Gród Mazowiecki', on the other hand, takes guests back to the Middle Ages, both in decor and food preparation methods, offering an unforgettable experience at a price that won't ruin your wallet.

If exceptional location and views are a priority, consider 'Restaurant in the Bay' in Mikolajki and 'Raspberry Forest Restaurant' in Nowa Wies. The former delights with a panoramic view of Mikolajski Lake and the marina, and specializes in fish and seafood dishes, although you'll have to pay a bit more for the pleasure. 'Raspberry Forest', on the other hand, offers a modern interpretation of Lesser Poland cuisine in a forest setting, with products from the restaurant's own organic farm, also in the higher price range.

For families with children and groups of friends, the best choices would be 'Bear's Paw' in Mragowo and 'Brytfanna' in Dobry Las. Both places offer affordable prices, generous portions and a friendly atmosphere. 'Łapa Niedźwiedzia' stands out for its game specialties and proximity to Lake Czos, while 'Brytfanna' tempts with its homey atmosphere and casseroles prepared in traditional cast-iron pots.

For connoisseurs of refined cuisine and wine lovers, the best choice will be 'Stara Wozownia Restaurant' in Mala Wies. Housed in historic farm buildings, this elegant establishment offers a menu combining Polish tradition with modern culinary techniques and an impressive wine selection. It is the most expensive establishment in our list, but the quality and top-notch culinary experience fully justify the higher prices.

For those who appreciate nostalgia and local history, the ideal choice would be 'Restaurant Polonia' in Mragowo. Operating continuously since the 1970s, it has retained its distinctive atmosphere, offering solid fish dishes in the middle price range. An additional advantage is the 'Evenings with History' organized here, during which you can learn about the history of the city to the accompaniment of traditional music.

It is worth noting that all the described restaurants share a passion for local culinary traditions and the use of products from local suppliers. However, they differ in their approach to tradition - from strict adherence to old recipes ('KARCZMA U MAZURA', 'KASZTAN'), through creative interpretations of classic dishes ('Ratuszowa', 'Polonia'), to a modern, authorial approach with respect for regional roots ('Stara Wozownia', 'Malinowy Las').

In terms of accessibility for people with limited mobility, the newer establishments - 'Restaurant in the Bay', 'Raspberry Forest' and 'Brytfanna' - are the best suited, with ramps and spacious interiors. Historic buildings such as 'Ratuszowa' and 'Old Coach House', despite the efforts of the owners, can pose some challenges for wheelchair users.

For lovers of local liquor, the 'Ratuszowa' with its impressive selection of regional liquors, the 'Old Coach House' with its extensive wine cellar and the 'Raspberry Forest' offering homemade liquors will be of particular interest. For vegetarians, on the other hand, 'Brytfanna' and 'Raspberry Forest' have the widest offerings, although each of the described restaurants offers at least some meatless options.

Regardless of individual preferences, each of the ten restaurants featured in our guide offers an authentic culinary experience away from the hustle and bustle of big cities. These are places where you can not only eat well, but also immerse yourself in local culture, history and traditions, learning the true face of Polish regional cuisine.