Historic Lvi Dvur Restaurant (The Lion's Court) forms part of the Royal Garden at Prague Castle. It makes an excellent choice for daytime and early evening dining when visiting the castle complex (opening hours are 10am-7pm). The restaurant building dates from 1581, when an enclosure was constructed by Emperor Rudolf II to house his menagerie of animals, including a lion. A recent renovation has carefully preserved its Renaissance aesthetics, evoking the spirit of 16th century Prague whilst creating a modern Czech dining experience. The restaurant is spread over two floors, although most guests choose to dine in the glass-sided conservatory at the rear. It is a light and airy space open all year round, where guests enjoy views of St. Vitus Cathedral and the Prague Castle gardens. In the warmer months, there is also an outside terrace and tranquil garden, offering equally nice views of the majestic surroundings. Lvi Dvur combines the rich flavours of traditional Czech cuisine with modern culinary techniques. Using authentic Czech recipes and locally sourced ingredients, it offers modern interpretations of typical Bohemian dishes; for example, goulash with farmer's sausage, roast duck, beef sirloin steak, schnitzel and roast pork. Sides include dumplings and red cabbage, potato pancakes, potato salad and buttered vegetables. The menu also offers Czech river fish and risotto.
The Lvi Dvur wine list focuses on Czech, French and Italian wines, although most locals prefer to drink Czech beer with such food. Lvi Dvur is conveniently located by the main tram stop for Prague Castle, so is easily combined with a trip to Prague Castle. Alternatively, catch a tram up to Lvi Dvur from the city centre simply to dine somewhere different. It is an easy excursion to make, and you could finish it off with a stroll through the castle complex (which is free to enter), before walking back to your hotel via the Lesser Town. |