Considered one of the most beautiful cafes in Prague, Kavárna Obecní dum is a throwback to the Art Nouveau days. The cafe is situated in Obecní dum (Municipal House), which is a national cultural landmark not be be missed ...its architecture is splendid! The Municpal House is home to one of the best concert halls in the city, Smetana Hall, and is is home to the Czech National Symphony Orchestra. It is also used for exhibitions, conventions, concerts, fashion shows, meetings, and balls (and who doesn't love going to a ball!). Although many of these rooms are locked, you can see them for yourself by taking a public tour throughout the building (it's well worth it). Smetana Hall alone is worth the tour because it truly is a magnificent sight. The walls and ceiling are decorated with works by leading Czech artists from the early 20th century, including Alfons Mucha.
The Municipal House was built in 1911 on the site of the former Royal Court Palace. It gained fame on October 28, 1918, when the historic proclamation of the independent state of Czechoslovakia took place there. After a complete restoration, the Municipal House reopened in the spring of 1997, bringing much joy to us all.
The Municipal House was built in 1911 on the site of the former Royal Court Palace. It gained fame on October 28, 1918, when the historic proclamation of the independent state of Czechoslovakia took place there. After a complete restoration, the Municipal House reopened in the spring of 1997, bringing much joy to us all.
Beautiful frescos, gold trim, and stained glass windows adorn the exterior of the Municipal House
Stained glass by Mucha
The Municipal House also houses a restaurant/bar located in the basement. Surprisingly inexpensive compared to the French restaurant and cafe.
"Vinarna" is a wine bar and "Hostinec" is what you might call a neighborhood pub
The cafe is a lovely place to enjoy lunch or afternoon tea, and the large windows looking out onto námestí Republiky make it a great place for people watching. An idea for a lovely night out (hint hint to all you men out there!) is dinner at the very elegant Francouzska Restaurant, followed by a classical concert in Smetana Hall, and topped off with a nightcap in the Kavárna. Oooh the romance!
Francouzska Restaurant
Francouzska Restaurant translates to French restaurant, but the cuisine is far more expansive. The Head Chef is Jirí Kral, captain of the National Team of Cooks and Confectioners of the Czech Republic. Chef Kral also provides catering to the president of the Czech Republic, so although quite costly, it's worth the splurge!
Address: Municipal House, a.s., nám. Republiky 5, 111 21 Prague 1
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