Bar Turystyczny

Since 1956, Bar Turystyczny has been feeding Gdańsk without fuss. It began as a milk bar and still understands the genius of that institution: hot, homemade Polish food, served quickly and priced for ordinary life. The family-run kitchen makes its soups, pierogi, salads, marinated meats and cakes from fresh ingredients. Come for steaming rosół, tomato soup, a crisp pork cutlet or minced-meat patty with mizeria and beetroot. Lazy pierogi, omelets and pancakes cover the gentler appetites. The room is practical, the rhythm brisk, and at lunchtime there may be a queue - usually the most persuasive recommendation of all. Readers of The Guardian singled it out on the Tricity food map in 2012, but the regulars hardly needed the news. Open from breakfast until early evening, it is perfect after too many decorative restaurant menus and not enough actual lunch. A cult address, a slice of social history, and one of the simplest pleasures in the old city.