The 'Pod Arkadami' Milk Bar is a true institution on the culinary map of Toruń. Located at 1 Różana Street, it is one of the few authentic milk bars that have stood the test of time. The history of the place dates back to the 1970s, when milk bars were a nutritional staple for many Poles. Today, 'Pod Arkadami' is not only a place where you can eat cheaply, but also a living slice of Poland's culinary history. The restaurant is famous for traditional dishes such as pork chops, pierogi and pancakes. Especially worth trying is the Old Polish sour soup, which is prepared according to a recipe passed down from generation to generation. Prices are extremely affordable - for soup you will pay about 5-7 zlotys, and for the second course 12-15 zlotys. It's worth knowing that this bar is especially popular among students and retirees, so it can be difficult to get a free seat at lunchtime.

Another place with a long tradition is Bar Rabarbar at 43/45 Wojska Polskiego St. Although it is not a classic milk bar, it offers similarly low prices and a homely atmosphere. The restaurant stands out from other places with its distinctive decor reminiscent of the 1980s and 1990s. Rabarbar is famous for its generous portions and extensive menu, in which there is something for everyone. Of particular note are potato pancakes with stew and croquettes with cabbage and mushrooms. It is interesting to note that the bar's owners collect old recipes from Torun residents and regularly introduce 'forgotten flavors' of the region to the menu. Prices are very competitive - for a full dinner consisting of soup and a second course you will pay about 15-18 zlotys.

Bistro Katarzynka, located at 6 St. Catherine's Square, is a place with a unique history. The name of the establishment refers to the famous Toruń gingerbread 'Katarzynka', the shape of which, according to legend, was supposedly inspired by the imprint of the local baker's daughter's knee. The bistro is housed in a turn-of-the-century building, which adds to its unique atmosphere. The menu is based on traditional Polish dishes with a hint of modernity. The specialty of the establishment is 'kujawska duck' - a regional dish that can rarely be found in other establishments. Also worth trying are the pierogies with buckwheat groats and cottage cheese, prepared according to a recipe from the early 20th century. Prices are slightly higher than in milk bars, but still very affordable - you'll pay about 18-22 zlotys for a full dinner. Bistro Katarzynka is an ideal place for people who appreciate not only good food, but also the history and culinary tradition of the region.

Bistro 22 | Home Dinners, located at 22 Watzenrodego Street on the JAR housing estate, is a relatively new place on the gastronomic map of Toruń, which quickly won the appreciation of residents. The restaurant is distinguished by its modern, minimalist décor, which contrasts with the traditional, homemade food served on plates. Bistro 22 was founded by a family that has spent generations collecting recipes for traditional Polish dishes. Particularly recommendable is their XL pork loin, which, according to local tales, is so big it sticks out beyond the plate. The place is also famous for 'Thursdays with Silesian Noodles' - a day when different variations of this popular dish are served. Prices are very reasonable - for soup you will pay 6-8 zlotys, and for the second course 14-18 zlotys. An additional advantage is the possibility to order the dish to take away, which is especially appreciated by local residents.

Bistro with Taste 'Pyra' at 35 Julian Falat Street is a place that, as the name suggests, specializes in potato dishes. The history of the place is quite interesting - the owner, who comes from Wielkopolska, decided to bring the culinary traditions of her region to Toruń. The restaurant is small, but cozy, with a distinctive decor reminiscent of a country cottage. The menu is relatively short, but each dish is polished to perfection. The flagship dish is, of course, potato pancakes served in various ways - with goulash, mushroom sauce or Hungarian style. Also worth trying is 'Pyra po toruńsku' - an original dish combining Wielkopolska and Kuyavian-Pomeranian traditions. Prices are very competitive - for a full dinner you will pay about 16-20 zlotys. Bistro 'Pyra' is especially popular among students of nearby universities, who appreciate good food at an affordable price.

Bulka, located at 6 Szewska Street in the heart of the Old Town, is a place that, although it specializes mainly in breakfasts, also offers tasty and inexpensive lunches. The restaurant is located in a historic building, whose history dates back to the 15th century. According to local legend, the basement of the building once housed a bakery that supplied baked goods to Nicolaus Copernicus himself. Today, Bułka combines tradition with modernity, offering dishes inspired by the cuisine of different regions of Poland. Especially worth trying is their soup of the day, which is always prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Also noteworthy are the hot sandwiches, which, despite their simplicity, delight with their taste. Prices are slightly higher than in typical milk bars, but still very affordable - you'll pay about 18-22 zlotys for a soup and a sandwich. Bun is the perfect place for tourists visiting the Old Town, who are looking for a quick but wholesome meal in the city center.

Well Zjesz, located at 6 Kosynierów Kosciuszkowskich Street (in the building of the Second High School), is a place with an interesting history. The restaurant was created on the initiative of the school's graduates, who decided to create a place where students and teachers could eat a healthy, home-cooked lunch. Over time, the bar has also gained popularity among residents of nearby neighborhoods. The menu is simple, but varied - different dishes are served every day, which means that even regular customers have no chance of getting bored. Particularly recommended are 'Wednesdays with stuffed cabbage' - a day on which different variations of this traditional dish are served. Prices are exceptionally affordable - you'll pay 5-7 zlotys for soup, and 12-15 zlotys for the second course. Dobrze Zjesz is a place that proves that a school canteen can offer quality food.

Malgoska, located at 10/12 Szczytna Street, is a real hidden gem of Toruń, known mainly to locals. This small place has been run by a family for three generations, and the recipes for most of the dishes still come from the grandmother of the current owner. The history of the place is fascinating - during World War II, a Jewish family was hidden in the basement of the building, and the kitchen upstairs served as a contact point for the Polish resistance. Today, Malgoska offers traditional Polish dishes in a homemade version. Especially worth trying is the bigos, which, according to local tales, is cooked for three days, which gives it a unique flavor. Also noteworthy are pancakes with cheese and berries, which have been a specialty of the establishment since the 1970s. Prices are very affordable - for a full dinner you'll pay about PLN 15-18. Malgoska is a place that proves that the best culinary discoveries often await off the main tourist routes.

Comparing all the places described, one can notice some regularities. Milk bars, such as 'Under the Arcades,' offer the lowest prices (a full dinner for about PLN 15), but often have a limited menu and simpler decor. Bistros, such as Bistro 22 or 'Pyra,' offer slightly higher prices (16-20 zloty for lunch), but offer a more varied menu and a more pleasant atmosphere. Downtown establishments, such as Bulka, have the highest prices of the places described (PLN 18-22 per lunch), but compensate for this with a convenient location and often a more sophisticated menu.

When it comes to culinary specialties, each place has its strengths. Bar 'Pod Arkadami' is famous for traditional Polish cuisine, Bar Rabarbara for generous portions and 'forgotten flavors', Bistro Katarzynka for regional specialties, Bistro 22 for homemade dinners, 'Pyra' for potato dishes, Bulka for sandwiches and soups, Dobrze Zjesz for its daily changing menu, and Malgoska for dishes prepared according to family recipes.

In terms of location, Bulka (Old Town) and Bistro Katarzynka (St. Catherine's Square) have the most central location. The other venues are located in different parts of the city, which is advantageous for residents of particular neighborhoods, but may require a commute from tourists.

The atmosphere of these places is also worth noting. Milk bars offer a nostalgic trip back to the communist era, bistros combine tradition with modernity, and places like Malgoska and Dobrze Zjesz have a unique, family-oriented character. Each of these places has its own history and tradition, which adds to the flavor of the dishes served.

Despite being a relatively small city, Torun offers a surprisingly wide range of places where you can eat cheaply and well. From traditional milk bars to modern bistros, each place has its own unique character and specialty. Whether you're a student, tourist or local, you're sure to find a place that satisfies your palate and won't strain your wallet. It's worth exploring the culinary nooks and crannies of this historic city, which, like its architecture, hide many fascinating stories and flavors.