Bars, pubs and nightlife

Best Local Bars and Nightlife in Gdańsk: Authentic Polish Drinking Spots Away from Tourist Crowds

Updated Jul 31, 2025

Discover Gdańsk's authentic bar scene with local breweries, cozy pubs, intimate wine bars, and underground clubs favored by residents over tourists.

Best Local Bars and Nightlife in Gdańsk: Authentic Polish Drinking Spots Away from Tourist Crowds
1

Ferber Bread & Wine

Old Town
cafe
Not required

Ferber Bread & Wine is one of Gdańsk's most charming coffee destinations, occupying a beautifully restored historic building in the Old Town. This cozy establishment combines traditional Polish hospitality with modern cafe culture, serving expertly crafted coffee alongside homemade pastries and light meals. The interior features exposed brick walls, vintage furniture, and warm lighting that creates an intimate atmosphere perfect for both casual meetings and quiet reading sessions. Their specialty coffee selection includes both local Polish roasters and international beans, prepared by skilled baristas who take pride in their craft. The cafe also offers a selection of teas, fresh juices, and seasonal beverages. Their food menu focuses on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients with options ranging from hearty breakfast dishes to satisfying lunch plates and delectable desserts.

Summary of reviews from

Google

This spot offers excellent location on Długa Street with beautiful interior and outdoor decoration. Coffee receives consistent praise, including specialty cold americano. Affordable pricing with cocktails at 31 zloty. Baker soup served in bread bowl stands out. Food satisfies and fills guests adequately.

Staff consistently displays rude, dismissive attitudes with no smiles or acknowledgment of customers. Service feels indifferent and practically absent. Food quality ranges from below average breakfast to merely okay lunch options. Nothing groundbreaking about the dining experience despite decent bakery selection.

Reviews summarized from between Jun 2024 and Apr 2025

Summary of reviews from

Tripadvisor

Ferber offers a cozy atmosphere perfect for people watching and casual meetings. Guests enjoy sitting by windows in the atmospheric space. The food receives praise, including delicious goulash soup and cakes. Drinks like prosecco, hot chocolate with cherry liqueur, and ginger honey drinks are popular. Service is generally nice and prices reasonable.

The venue can appear unwelcoming with its heavy wooden door firmly closed. Service quality varies significantly, with some staff being abrupt and unfriendly. One server was notably stony-faced, tossed menus carelessly, and inappropriately handled a customer's phone. Food service can be slow, and some menu items may be unavailable.

Reviews summarized from between Dec 2024 and Apr 2025

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Visitors consistently praise the exceptional coffee quality and knowledgeable baristas. The cozy atmosphere and beautiful historic interior receive frequent compliments. Many appreciate the friendly service and reasonable prices. The homemade pastries and fresh food options are highly rated.

Some guests mention limited seating during peak hours and occasional wait times. A few reviews note that the space can become crowded and noisy when busy. Some visitors wished for more extensive food menu options during certain hours.

2

Whiskey in the Jar

Old Town
pub
Optional

Whiskey in the Jar brings authentic Irish pub culture to Gdańsk's Old Town with over 200 whiskeys from Ireland, Scotland, and beyond. This cozy establishment features traditional wooden interiors, vintage memorabilia, and live music sessions that create an intimate atmosphere. The menu combines classic Irish dishes like fish and chips with Polish favorites, while the knowledgeable staff guides guests through extensive whiskey tastings. Located on a charming cobblestone street, the pub attracts both locals and tourists seeking genuine Irish hospitality. Regular live performances include traditional folk music and contemporary acts. The warm lighting and comfortable seating make it perfect for both casual drinks and special celebrations in Gdańsk's historic district.

Summary of reviews from

Google

Whiskey in the Jar offers industrial design with a striking piranha aquarium. The flank steak and BBQ ribs receive praise for perfect cooking, while unique sides like truffle mashed potatoes stand out. The apple pie with crispy shortcrust pastry gets rave reviews. Great outdoor seating with live music, excellent cocktails, and attentive service create a lively atmosphere.

Some diners find the atmosphere too loud with heavy metal music instead of the expected quiet setting. Old fashioned cocktails served in jars with straws disappointed traditionalists. Glasses had unpleasant odors suggesting dishwashing issues. Steaks arrived overcooked, fries weren't hot, and the overall experience felt like a chain restaurant rather than fine dining.

Reviews summarized from between Apr 2025 and Jul 2025

Summary of reviews from

Tripadvisor

This casual restaurant excels with generous meat portions and excellent service. The Rock'n steak stands out as a signature dish. Great bar selection complements the dining experience. Welcoming atmosphere suits families, couples, and friends equally well. Both food quality and drinks receive strong praise from visitors.

The reviews provided contain minimal negative feedback. One reviewer noted the informal atmosphere, though this wasn't necessarily criticized. No significant complaints about service, food quality, or pricing were mentioned in these particular reviews.

Reviews summarized from between Jun 2025 and Jun 2025

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Visitors praise the extensive whiskey selection and knowledgeable bartenders who provide excellent recommendations. The authentic Irish atmosphere, friendly service, and live music create memorable experiences. Many highlight the quality traditional food and cozy interior design.

Some guests mention limited seating during peak hours and occasional slow service when busy. A few reviews note higher prices compared to local establishments and sometimes loud music that makes conversation difficult during live performances.

3

Drukarnia

Old Town
restaurant
Optional

Drukarnia transforms a former printing house into an atmospheric restaurant serving modern Polish cuisine with international influences. The industrial-chic interior features exposed brick walls, vintage printing equipment, and dim lighting that creates an intimate dining experience. Located on Piwna Street in the Old Town, this establishment attracts food enthusiasts seeking elevated comfort food in a unique setting. The menu emphasizes seasonal ingredients and creative presentations of traditional dishes. Chef-driven preparations include house-made pasta, premium steaks, and innovative takes on pierogi. The extensive wine list complements the sophisticated menu. Open kitchen concept allows diners to watch culinary artistry unfold. Weekend brunch offerings draw locals and tourists alike for hearty morning meals.

Summary of reviews from

Google

Visitors love the excellent coffee, especially lattes and Americanos. The cheesecakes and pastries receive high praise for being delicious. Staff consistently described as friendly, polite, and helpful. The atmosphere is wonderful with beautiful street views from the outdoor seating area. Many guests want to return daily.

Service can be extremely slow and disorganized, with some orders going missing entirely. Gets very crowded during busy periods. Some pastries like cinnamon buns and banana bread described as dry and disappointing. Not suitable for large groups. Several visitors felt it was overrated and a tourist trap.

Reviews summarized from between Mar 2025 and Jul 2025

Summary of reviews from

Tripadvisor

This trendy Gdansk cafe offers exceptional specialty coffee and flavorful pastries in a quirky, stylish setting. Multiple seating areas include indoor, outdoor, and upstairs options. Staff provides welcoming, pleasant service. Located on a charming back street near amber shops, it attracts diverse age groups and serves great breakfast options. Local guides recommend it as a perfect spot to unwind.

The main drawback is that this popular cafe can get quite busy, though the multiple seating areas help accommodate crowds. No other significant issues were mentioned by reviewers.

Reviews summarized from between May 2025 and Jun 2025

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Diners praise the exceptional atmosphere created by the converted printing house setting. Food quality receives high marks for creative Polish dishes and excellent meat preparations. Service staff demonstrates knowledge and attentiveness. The unique industrial decor creates memorable dining experiences.

Some guests find prices higher than expected for portion sizes. Noise levels can become uncomfortable during busy periods due to hard surfaces. Limited vegetarian options disappoint plant-based diners. Wait times occasionally extend longer than anticipated.

4

Baryłka

Old Town
restaurant
Optional

Baryłka serves traditional Polish cuisine in a rustic setting that captures authentic Gdańsk dining culture. The restaurant specializes in hearty regional dishes including pierogi, kielbasa, and seasonal game meats prepared with local ingredients. Located in a charming building with wooden interiors and traditional décor, it offers both indoor seating and a small outdoor terrace during warmer months. The menu features classic Polish comfort foods alongside regional Pomeranian specialties that reflect the coastal location. Portions are generous and prices remain reasonable for the quality offered. The atmosphere feels genuinely local rather than touristy, making it popular with both residents and visitors seeking an authentic Polish dining experience. Staff members are knowledgeable about traditional preparations and can guide diners through unfamiliar dishes. The restaurant maintains consistent quality across its menu while preserving traditional cooking methods that have been passed down through generations.

Summary of reviews from

Google

This restaurant offers fresh local ingredients with generous portions at good prices. The location is excellent for tourists, featuring an amazing third-floor terrace. Food quality is consistently good with authentic flavors. The beetroot soup and pork cutlet receive praise, along with quality wine selections. Staff provides helpful recommendations.

Service issues include slow response times, wrong orders from waiters, and unfriendly staff attitudes. Some dishes arrive cold, particularly pizza, and bread can be dry. Staff interactions lack warmth and professionalism, with reports of rudeness and sighing when taking orders. Wait times can be lengthy despite sparse crowds.

Reviews summarized from between Jul 2019 and Jun 2023

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Visitors praise the authentic Polish atmosphere and generous portion sizes. Many highlight the excellent pierogi varieties and traditional meat dishes. Staff receives compliments for being friendly and helpful with menu explanations. The rustic décor and cozy ambiance create a genuinely Polish dining experience.

Some guests mention slow service during busy periods. A few reviews note that the interior can feel cramped when full. Limited vegetarian options disappoint some diners. Occasional complaints about food being too heavy or salty for some tastes.

5

Spatif Club

Sopot
nightclub
Optional

Spatif Club is a premier nightlife destinations, offering an upscale clubbing experience. This sophisticated venue attracts both locals and tourists with its modern interior design, state-of-the-art sound system, and carefully curated music selection spanning electronic, house, and commercial hits. The club features multiple rooms with different atmospheres, VIP areas, and a spacious dance floor. Professional DJs regularly perform alongside occasional live acts. The venue maintains high standards for dress code and entry, creating an exclusive atmosphere. Cocktails and premium spirits dominate the drink menu, served by skilled bartenders. Open primarily on weekends, Spatif Club draws a fashionable crowd looking for an elevated nightout experience.

Summary of reviews from

Google

This venue stands out as one of the world's top nightlife destinations. The party atmosphere kicks off around midnight with excellent music and professional bartenders. Visitors enjoy a diverse mix of Polish locals and international guests, creating an energetic social scene that consistently delivers memorable nights out.

Service issues plague this establishment with reports of rude staff behavior. The main square location appears to be a tourist trap, with one visitor paying 32 zloty for a watered-down lemon spritz containing no alcohol or prosecco - just ice and lemon juice instead of the advertised drink.

Reviews summarized from between Oct 2023 and Jul 2025

Summary of reviews from

Tripadvisor

This legendary Sopot pub offers a unique bohemian atmosphere with amazing decor and alternative rock music. The staff dance while serving, creating an infectious energy. Drink selection is huge with reasonable prices compared to other fancy venues on the street. Fresh air inside with non-smoking policy.

Gets extremely crowded on weekends. One reviewer experienced discriminatory treatment at entry, where foreign visitors were asked for membership cards while locals entered freely. Staff adopted aggressive positions, suggesting potential issues with foreigner treatment at this establishment.

Reviews summarized from between Mar 2019 and Jul 2021

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Visitors praise the club's sophisticated atmosphere, excellent sound quality, and professional service. Many highlight the stylish interior design and well-mixed drinks. The venue's selective entry policy creates an upscale crowd that guests appreciate.

Some reviewers mention high drink prices and strict door policies that can feel exclusionary. Wait times for entry and crowded conditions during peak hours receive occasional complaints from visitors.

6

SEZON Wine Bar

Old Town
wine bar
Optional

SEZON Wine Bar is as one of Gdańsk's premier wine destinations, featuring an extensive selection of European wines alongside carefully curated Polish varieties. The elegant interior combines modern sophistication with traditional elements, creating an intimate atmosphere perfect for wine enthusiasts. Expert sommeliers guide guests through tastings while sharing knowledge about each bottle's origin and characteristics. The bar offers premium cheeses, charcuterie, and small plates designed to complement their wine selection. Located in a historic building, SEZON maintains high standards for both service and quality. The knowledgeable staff creates personalized recommendations based on individual preferences. Wine flights allow guests to explore different regions and varietals in single visits.

Summary of reviews from

Google

Cozy wine bar in Gdańsk with excellent natural wine selection from across Europe. Knowledgeable, English-speaking staff offer personalized recommendations. Outstanding cheese platters feature the city's best sourdough bread, homemade butter, and delicious burrata. Romantic, intimate atmosphere perfect for evenings out.

Service can be disappointing with inattentive staff who prioritize chatting over customer care. Long waits for basic service and poor response to feedback create uncomfortable situations. Higher prices don't match the inconsistent service quality, leading some guests to leave early.

Reviews summarized from between Oct 2024 and May 2025

Summary of reviews from

Tripadvisor

Guests praise the generous portions and delicious food, highlighting exceptional deer, tiger shrimp starters, and quality steaks. The sharing boards are perfect for groups. Staff provide attentive service in a cozy atmosphere enhanced by live piano music. Good value prices and vegetarian options available.

The restaurant appears to be permanently closed with no signage at the listed location. This creates frustration for visitors who rely on outdated listings. Some menu items like Polish wine may be unavailable due to stock issues.

Reviews summarized from between Dec 2022 and Apr 2023

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Guests praise the exceptional wine selection and knowledgeable staff who provide excellent recommendations. The intimate atmosphere and quality service create memorable experiences for wine lovers. Many highlight the expert curation of both international and Polish wines.

Some visitors find the prices steep compared to other Gdańsk establishments. Limited food options disappoint guests seeking full meals rather than small plates. Occasionally crowded conditions can affect the intimate atmosphere during peak hours.