🍲 Slivovice (Plum Brandy) – A Traditional Czech Delight You Must Try in Prague

🥘 About the Dish

While it may not be a dish in the classic sense, Slivovice (pronounced slih-VOH-vee-tseh) is an essential piece of Czech food culture you can’t ignore when exploring what to eat in Prague. This clear plum brandy is fragrant and robust, made from ripe, sweet plums grown in the country’s orchards. Pour a glass and you’ll notice an inviting aroma: fruity, floral, and tinged with gentle warmth. On the palate, Slivovice is both fiery and smooth — the initial kick softens into lingering, comforting notes of fruit and almond. Traditionally served as a digestif after a hearty Czech meal, it’s an authentic taste you won’t forget.

🕰️ History and Cultural Significance

This iconic spirit has roots in Mähren, the eastern region of the Czech Republic, where distilling plums has been an age-old tradition. Slivovice dates back centuries, originally distilled in rural homes and farms during the bountiful late-summer plum harvest. Today, it remains a symbol of Czech hospitality — a glass is often offered as a welcome, to celebrate special occasions, or raised during festive toasts. Whether enjoyed at family gatherings or sipped at lively festivals, this plum brandy is a true taste of local Czech food in Prague.

🍳 How It’s Prepared

The magic of Slivovice lies in its simple yet meticulous preparation. Only the ripest plums are mashed and fermented, allowing their natural sugars to develop a rich aroma. The fermented mash is then carefully distilled in copper stills — a process that extracts the intense flavors while keeping the brandy crystal-clear. Traditional recipes sometimes include a handful of plum stones, imparting a subtle hint of almond to the finished spirit. Modern distilleries across Prague and Moravia honor these time-honored methods, while contemporary craft producers experiment with aging or infusing the slivovice for a modern twist.

📍 Where to Eat Slivovice in Prague

Curious where to sample this beloved tipple? Here are some top spots in Prague for an authentic Slivovice experience:

• Lokál U Bílé Kuželky – A classic Czech pub with excellent food and a wide range of local spirits.
• Restaurace Mlejnice – Try a shot of Slivovice with your hearty Czech meal in Old Town’s rustic ambiance.
• U Medvídků – This legendary beer hall also pours stellar Moravian Slivovice, alongside traditional Czech dishes.
• Eska – A contemporary restaurant in Karlín putting a creative spin on classics, including house-infused Slivovice.
• Slivovice Museum Bar – Discover the drink’s history and sample rare versions in this interactive Old Town museum and tasting room.

💡 Tips for Visitors

• Pair Slivovice with a local Czech beer like Pilsner Urquell or a crisp Moravian white wine for contrast.
• If you dine at lunchtime, many Prague restaurants offer denní menu with traditional fare — top it off with a digestif of Slivovice.
• Order a plate of homemade sausages or cheese to complement your drink — savory and salty flavors work beautifully.
• Take your time sipping Slivovice — it’s meant to be savored, not rushed!

🍴 More About Czech Cuisine

Slivovice is a vibrant thread woven deep into the fabric of Czech culinary traditions, reflecting the richness of the land and the warmth of local hospitality. If you’re curious about what to eat in Prague, don’t stop at liquid treasures! Dive into hearty classics like goulash with pillowy dumplings, the legendary