Europe is home to a plethora of charming and lesser-known pubs that offer a unique and authentic experience for travelers. These hidden gems may not be as famous as some of the well-known pubs in major cities, but they are worth seeking out for their cozy atmospheres, friendly locals, and often intriguing histories. Here are a few hidden gems you might want to visit:
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The Philharmonic Dining Rooms (Liverpool, England): Tucked away in Liverpool, this Victorian pub is a work of art in itself. It features ornate, intricate interior designs with stained glass windows, marble walls, and a mosaic floor. It's an excellent place to enjoy a pint of local ale.
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Le Bistrot d'Henri (Paris, France): This small, unassuming bistro in the Montmartre area of Paris offers a cozy and intimate setting. It's known for its excellent wine selection and traditional French dishes, making it a perfect spot to escape the tourist crowds.
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Lokál U Bílé Kuželky (Prague, Czech Republic): Situated in Prague's Lesser Town, this traditional Czech pub is hidden away from the main tourist areas. It's a great place to sample Czech beer and classic Czech cuisine in an authentic setting.
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Krčma (Krakow, Poland): Located in the heart of Krakow's Old Town, Krčma offers a medieval-themed atmosphere with candlelit tables, wooden beams, and hearty Polish dishes. It's like stepping back in time while enjoying a drink.
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The Crown Liquor Saloon (Belfast, Northern Ireland): This beautifully preserved Victorian pub is a masterpiece of design, featuring ornate tiles, stained glass, and cozy wooden snugs. It's a unique place to enjoy a drink in a historic setting.
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The Blind Tiger (Dublin, Ireland): While Temple Bar in Dublin is well-known for its nightlife, The Blind Tiger is a hidden gem away from the crowds. It's an intimate speakeasy-style bar with a focus on craft cocktails.
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Le Carillon (Paris, France): Nestled in the Canal Saint-Martin neighborhood, Le Carillon offers a charming and laid-back atmosphere. It's a great place to enjoy a drink by the canal and soak up the local vibe.
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U Kunštátů (Prague, Czech Republic): Tucked away in a small courtyard in Prague's New Town, U Kunštátů is a traditional Czech pub with a cozy atmosphere and a wide selection of Czech beers. It's a true hidden gem in the city.
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Café Gijón (Madrid, Spain): Located in the heart of Madrid, Café Gijón is a historic literary café where famous writers and artists have gathered for centuries. It's an excellent spot for coffee, drinks, and people-watching.
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The Eagle and Child (Oxford, England): This historic pub is famous for being the meeting place of the "Inklings," a literary group that included C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. It's a must-visit for fans of their work.
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The Philharmonic Dining Rooms (Liverpool, England):
- Address: 36 Hope St, Liverpool L1 9BX, United Kingdom
- Notable Food: Traditional British pub fare, including pies, fish and chips, and roast dinners.
- Why it's Famous: The Philharmonic Dining Rooms is famous for its stunning Victorian architecture and ornate decor. It's often referred to as one of the most beautiful pubs in England. It's a Grade II-listed building and a must-visit for its historic ambiance.
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Le Bistrot d'Henri (Paris, France):
- Address: 16 Rue Princesse, 75006 Paris, France
- Notable Food: Classic French dishes like Coq au Vin and Beef Bourguignon.
- Why it's Famous: This cozy bistro is a hidden gem in the bustling Montmartre neighborhood of Paris. It's known for its intimate atmosphere and authentic French cuisine. Locals and tourists alike love its unpretentious charm.
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Lokál U Bílé Kuželky (Prague, Czech Republic):
- Address: Míšeňská 12, 118 00 Malá Strana, Czechia
- Notable Food: Czech specialties such as goulash, schnitzel, and homemade sausages.
- Why it's Famous: This traditional Czech pub is tucked away in Prague's Lesser Town and offers a truly authentic experience. It's famous for its fresh Pilsner Urquell beer, hearty Czech cuisine, and a warm, unassuming atmosphere.
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Krčma (Krakow, Poland):
- Address: Sławkowska 3, 31-014 Kraków, Poland
- Notable Food: Polish pierogi, kielbasa (sausage), and hearty stews.
- Why it's Famous: Krčma is famous for its medieval-themed ambiance, making diners feel like they've stepped back in time. The interior is decorated with suits of armor and tapestries, creating a unique dining experience.
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The Crown Liquor Saloon (Belfast, Northern Ireland):
- Address: 46 Great Victoria St, Belfast BT2 7BA, United Kingdom
- Notable Food: Traditional Irish dishes, including Irish stew and soda bread.
- Why it's Famous: The Crown Liquor Saloon is famous for its opulent Victorian-era decor, complete with gas lamps and beautifully crafted snugs. It's a National Trust-owned pub and a true historical gem.
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The Blind Tiger (Dublin, Ireland):
- Address: 51 Great Strand St, North City, Dublin, D01 A386, Ireland
- Notable Food: The Blind Tiger is known for its craft cocktails, so the focus here is on drinks rather than food. They have an extensive cocktail menu featuring both classic and creative concoctions.
- Why it's Famous: The Blind Tiger is famous for its speakeasy-style ambiance, complete with a hidden entrance and a dimly lit, intimate atmosphere. It's a great place to savor meticulously crafted cocktails in a secret and cozy setting.
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Le Carillon (Paris, France):
- Address: 18 Rue Alibert, 75010 Paris, France
- Notable Food: Le Carillon serves a variety of French dishes, including charcuterie boards, croque-monsieurs, and salads.
- Why it's Famous: Le Carillon gained international attention after the tragic events of November 2015 when it was targeted in a terrorist attack. Since then, it has become a symbol of resilience and community spirit. It's a welcoming and peaceful place to enjoy a drink by the Canal Saint-Martin.
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U Kunštátů (Prague, Czech Republic):
- Address: Růžová 10, 110 00 Nové Město, Czechia
- Notable Food: Traditional Czech cuisine such as svíčková (marinated beef with cream sauce), pork knuckle, and various types of dumplings.
- Why it's Famous: U Kunštátů is famous for its authentic Czech pub experience, complete with a cozy interior and a wide range of Czech beers on tap. It's a hidden gem where you can savor traditional Czech dishes while mingling with locals.
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Café Gijón (Madrid, Spain):
- Address: Paseo de Recoletos, 21, 28004 Madrid, Spain
- Notable Food: Café Gijón is known for its coffee, pastries, and light snacks.
- Why it's Famous: Café Gijón is a historic literary café in Madrid, frequented by famous writers and artists for over a century. It's famous for its role as a meeting place for the Spanish literary elite, making it a cultural and historical landmark in the city.
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The Eagle and Child (Oxford, England):
- Address: 49 St Giles', Oxford OX1 3LU, United Kingdom
- Notable Food: Classic British pub food, including pies, burgers, and fish and chips.
- Why it's Famous: The Eagle and Child is famous for being the regular meeting place of the "Inklings," a literary group that included renowned authors such as C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. The pub's history and literary connections make it a must-visit for fans of these authors' works.
Remember to check the current status and offerings of these pubs, as circumstances can change over time. These hidden gems are celebrated for their unique characteristics, whether it's their historical significance, atmospheric charm, or their role in local culture and community