Different countries, different tastes. During a short or long-term stay in the Czech Republic, you will undoubtedly have the chance to sample the local cuisine. Dishes like vepřo knedlo zelo (roast pork with dumplings and sauerkraut) or svíčková (marinated beef sirloin with cream sauce) are typical staples—and generally don’t stir up heated debates. Unlike a few others. Here are the Czech dishes and food products that “succeeded” in making the list of the 100 worst-rated foods in the world.
The top 100 “worst dishes” list was created based on user reviews on the TasteAtlas platform. Three items from Czech gastronomy made the cut: a soup, a spread, and a dry toast biscuit. Come and taste them with us.
Bread Soup (Chlebová polévka)
Receiving the lowest rating among all Czech dishes was bread soup. Unsurprisingly, its base is stale bread, along with water, onions, and spices. Root vegetables, eggs, or broth are often added as well. Would you give it a try?
Karlovy Vary Toast (Karlovarský suchar)
Crunchy, dietary, and protected by a geographical indication—yet disliked by (some) expats living in the Czech Republic. The Karlovy Vary toast originates from the spa town of Karlovy Vary in western Bohemia. Its traditional recipe dates back to the 19th century, and the secret to its flavor—or lack thereof, according to some—lies in double baking and the use of Karlovy Vary’s thermal mineral water. Good news for those whose taste buds didn’t quite click with the toast: its main manufacturer went bankrupt. But if you happen to stumble upon it in a bakery, give it a chance—with butter, jam, and a cup of tea.
Butter Spread (Máslová pomazánka)
This spread features a mildly tangy flavor and a creamy texture. In the Czech Republic, it is locally known as pomazánkové máslo (“spreadable butter”), even though you will no longer find it under that name in grocery stores. The spread does not contain enough milk fat to legally include the word “butter” in its name under European Union regulations. It is made from sour cream and powdered milk or buttermilk. It can be flavored with herbs, with ham and garlic being popular choices as well.
Swedish Pizza as a Smörgåsbord
It is worth noting that reviewers’ tastes and moods change, so the rankings may look completely different next year. In the past, other Czech items have appeared on the list, such as fish soup (a traditional part of Christmas Eve dinner) or rýžový nákyp (a baked sweet rice dish served with fruit). This year, however, these delicacies are no longer featured.
And which dish was ranked the absolute worst by diners on TasteAtlas? That title goes to Pizza Vulkanen, invented by a chef from the Swedish town of Piteå. Served on a pizza crust is a truly unconventional mix of flavors: ham with cheese, bacon, beef tenderloin, french fries, and Béarnaise sauce. Does bread soup still sound so strange?
Complex Flavors, Comprehensive Insurance
We believe that Czech cuisine will win you over in the end. And if not the food, then the beer certainly will! It might even make you stay in the Czech Republic longer than originally planned. As a quick reminder: to obtain a long-term residence permit or a long-term visa, you need comprehensive health insurance. We also strongly recommend it for short-term stays. You can compare policy options from various insurers using our clear, easy-to-use comparison tool.
