We begin our culinary journey with restaurants that not only serve traditional dishes, but are also firmly rooted in the city's history. Our first stop is the Bazar 1838 Restaurant, located in the historic building of the Bazar Hotel, which has been the center of Poznan's economic and cultural life since the 19th century. The name of the restaurant is not accidental - it refers to the year the hotel was founded by Karol Marcinkowski, a prominent physician and social activist. The menu features classic Wielkopolska specialties, such as czernina (duck blood soup with dried fruits), duck with apples and gray noodles. The restaurant's interiors have retained their historic character, which, combined with the elegant service, creates a unique atmosphere. Prices are at an above-average level, but the quality and historical experience fully compensate for this.

Another place with a rich history is Ratuszova Restaurant & Apartments A.D. 1954, located on the Old Market Square. As the name suggests, the restaurant has been in continuous operation since 1954, making it one of the oldest in the city. It specializes in traditional Polish cuisine with a particular emphasis on game dishes. The black soup, roast duck with apples or wrapped scions are worth trying here. The restaurant is famous for its elegant service and careful presentation of dishes, making it an ideal place for special occasions. Prices are higher than average, but the quality of the dishes and the prestigious location justify the difference.

A slightly less formal but equally authentic atmosphere is offered at Wiejskie Jadło, also located in the Old Market. The restaurant is decorated in the style of a traditional Wielkopolska cottage, with dark wooden furniture and rustic decor. The menu is extensive and includes all the classics of regional cuisine, from sour soup to pork knuckle. Of particular note are the pyry with gzik (potatoes with cottage cheese and onions) and potato pancakes with goulash. Portions are very generous, which, combined with reasonable prices, makes this place popular with tourists and locals alike. In the summer you can use the garden, which is an added bonus.

At the opposite end of the Old Market Square is Pyšna Chałupa, a restaurant that combines the traditions of Wielkopolska and Czech cuisine. This is a reflection of the historical ties between the two regions. The menu features both Poznan specialties and Czech delicacies, such as knedliki and fried cheese. The restaurant is distinguished by its wide range of craft beers, which go perfectly with the dishes served. The interior is decorated in the style of a country cottage, with wooden tables and benches and traditional decorations. Prices are moderate, and the atmosphere is conducive to long, social gatherings over good food and beer.

Leaving the Old Market, it's worth heading towards Ostrow Tumski, where the Tumska Restaurant is located. This is a unique place located in the immediate vicinity of the Poznan Cathedral, on the grounds where the Polish state was born. The restaurant is housed in a historic building and offers dishes inspired by medieval Wielkopolska cuisine, adapted to modern tastes. The restaurant's specialty is freshwater fish dishes, harkening back to the days when the Warta River was an important source of food for the locals. It's worth trying the Poznan-style zander or stuffed pike. The restaurant offers a picturesque view of the cathedral and the Warta River, which adds an extra, almost mystical dimension to the meal. Prices are higher than average, but the location and quality of the dishes fully justify it.

Not far from Ostrów Tumski, in Śródka, is Na Winklu, a restaurant that in recent years has gained great popularity among locals and tourists. The name refers to the Poznań dialect, where 'winkiel' means street corner. The restaurant is primarily famous for its huge baked dumplings, which are crispy on the outside and steamy on the inside. It's an interesting interpretation of a traditional dish that has won the hearts of Poznanians. In addition to the dumplings, try the beet carpaccio, which is one of the flagship appetizers. The restaurant is bicycle-friendly, allowing you to combine a culinary experience with an active tour of the city. Prices are moderate, and portions are large enough that one dish can suffice for two people with smaller appetites.

Staying in the climate of less obvious locations, it is worth visiting Hyćka Restaurant, also located in Srodka. 'Hyćka' in the Poznań dialect means swing, a reference to carefree childhood and simple pleasures. The restaurant specializes in traditional dishes from Wielkopolska, prepared according to recipes passed down from generation to generation. Particularly recommended are szagówki (potato dumplings) with fried cabbage and blind fish (potato soup). The interior is decorated in a style reminiscent of old Poznań apartments, with period furniture and photographs of old Poznań on the walls. Prices are affordable and the atmosphere is conducive to family gatherings. The restaurant also organizes cooking workshops, where you can learn how to prepare traditional Wielkopolska dishes.

In the center of the city, on Swiety Marcin Street, is Drevny Kocur - a restaurant combining the traditions of Wielkopolska and Slavic cuisine. The name refers to the legend of the cat, which, according to legends, was said to live in the basement of Poznan's town hall and guard the city's treasures. The menu is based on seasonal products, and dishes are prepared according to old recipes, often forgotten and rediscovered. Here it is worth trying scones with various additives, prepared before the guests' eyes, or root beer brewed according to a medieval recipe. The interior of the restaurant is styled like a medieval inn, with heavy wooden furniture and torches on the walls. Prices are moderate, and the atmosphere of the place makes the visit not only a feast for the palate, but also a trip back in time.

For those who appreciate traditional flavors served in a modern form, Poznań also has much to offer. One such place is Modra Kuchnia, located on Mickiewicza Street. The name refers to the characteristic blue color ('modry' in the Poznań dialect) that dominates the restaurant's decor. The restaurant specializes in a modern interpretation of classic Wielkopolska dishes. The chef experiments with form and texture, while preserving the authentic flavors of the region. It's worth trying here a deconstruction of pyra with gzik or a modern version of czernina served as a mousse with duck skin chips. The menu changes seasonally, depending on the availability of local produce. The interior is minimalist, with industrial elements, which creates an interesting contrast with the traditional dishes. Prices are higher than average, but the creativity and quality of workmanship fully justify it.

Another place that combines tradition with modernity is Rosalie Restaurant Poznan. While the name may suggest French inspiration, the restaurant specializes in a fusion of Wielkopolska and French cuisine, reflecting the historical ties between the two regions. The chef uses French techniques to prepare local products, creating fascinating combinations of flavors. The menu includes such items as foie gras with confit made from Poznan's świętomarciński croissants or duck confit with modra cabbage and Silesian noodles. The restaurant's interior is elegant and refined, with subtle references to both cultures. The service is professional and unobtrusive, and the sommelier is available to help select wines to go with the dishes. Prices are high, but the quality and uniqueness of the culinary experience make up for the cost.

To sum up our culinary journey in Poznan, it is worth considering which restaurant best suits individual preferences. For lovers of authentic, traditional cuisine in a historic setting, the best choices will be Bazar 1838 Restaurant, Ratuszova or Wiejskie Jadło. Those looking for a less obvious but equally authentic culinary experience should head to Na Winklu, Hyćka or Drevny Kocur. On the other hand, for those who appreciate a modern approach to tradition, Modra Kuchnia and Restaurant Rosalie will be ideal places.

It is worth noting that the restaurants differ not only in cuisine style, but also in price level and atmosphere. The most affordable are Wiejskie Jadło, Hyćka and Na Winklu, while Restaurant Bazar 1838, Ratuszova and Rosalie represent the higher price segment. In terms of atmosphere, Restaurant Bazar 1838 and Ratuszova are the most formal and elegant, while Wiejskie Jadło, Pyšna Chałupa or Drevny Kocur offer a more casual, rustic atmosphere.

Regardless of your choice, each of the described restaurants offers an authentic experience of Wielkopolska cuisine, an important part of the region's cultural heritage. Poznan's culinary scene is a fascinating microcosm where tradition meets innovation, creating unique flavors and experiences. Discovering these flavors is not only a pleasure for the palate, but also a journey through the history and culture of Wielkopolska, recorded in recipes handed down from generation to generation. Each visit to one of these restaurants is an opportunity to better understand the region and its people through what has united people around the world for centuries - feasting together over good food.