Mlýnec

Novotného lávka 199/9, Staré Město, Praha, Czech Republic

Few sights in Prague are as famous as the Charles Bridge, the statue-laden stone walkway that bears camera-wielding tourists between the Old Town and Lesser Town. Considering this is Prague’s (rather refined) answer to Piccadilly Circus, it’s not exactly the spot where you’d expect to find a good restaurant. But luckily, Mlýnec is just that – a hidden jewel that quietly overlooks the east side of the bridge. In warm months, its terrace doors fling open to river breezes and superb people-watching; when the sun slinks below the horizon, the restaurant is privy to the romantic glow of twinkling bridge lights. It’s Czech cuisine here, but not as you know it. Wines from the country’s South Moravia region – zippy grüner veltliner or sauvignon whites, and rich cabernet reds – wash down reasonably light, seasonal dishes, such as saddle of local lamb stuffed with nettles, or rabbit legs wrapped in bacon. An asparagus tasting dish sings with spring freshness. But of course, when in Prague, it would be just plain wrong to ignore the most famous local product of all. That’s why you have to finish with the poached pear – served with a dark beer mousse. AM. 00 4202 7700 0777