Breakfast and brunch

Best Local Breakfast, Brunch & Coffee Spots in Gdańsk: Where Residents Actually Go

Updated Thu, Jul 31, 2025

Discover authentic breakfast and coffee spots in Gdańsk favored by locals, from cozy neighborhood cafés to traditional Polish breakfast joints.

Best Local Breakfast, Brunch & Coffee Spots in Gdańsk: Where Residents Actually Go
1

Wine Bar "Literacka"

Old Town
sit down
cafe
Not required

Wine Bar "Literacka"transforms book lovers into devoted regulars with its extensive library covering multiple floors and cozy reading nooks throughout. This literary-themed cafe serves exceptional coffee, homemade cakes, and light meals while surrounded by thousands of books spanning various genres. The intimate atmosphere encourages long stays with comfortable seating areas perfect for reading or quiet conversations. Located in a historic building, the cafe maintains authentic Polish charm with wooden furnishings and warm lighting. Students, writers, and tourists frequently discover this hidden gem that successfully blends cafe culture with literary passion. The establishment operates as both bookstore and restaurant, creating a unique destination for intellectually curious visitors seeking more than typical tourist spots.

Summary of reviews from

Google

This Polish restaurant delivers exceptional food from duck and rabbit to pierogi and seafood soup. Staff provide knowledgeable wine pairings and attentive service. The intimate, stylish atmosphere features window seating perfect for watching snow fall. Servers are patient with questions and remember special requests like birthday gestures.

The restaurant can feel uncomfortably quiet on slow nights with no other diners present. The lower level dining room has overly bright lighting that detracts from creating a cozy atmosphere, though the excellent food and service help guests overlook this lighting issue.

Reviews summarized from between Oct 2024 and Jun 2025

Summary of reviews from

Tripadvisor

Literacka restaurant delivers exceptional dining with outstanding wild boar and perfectly cooked steaks. Staff like Martyna provide attentive service with perfect English. The terrace offers romantic atmosphere with church bells. Local beer and Polish wine selections impress. Hot plates ensure quality. Located on amber jewelry street Ul Mariacka.

Only complaint mentioned was that the exceptional dining experience had to end, leaving guests wanting more time to enjoy the restaurant's offerings.

Reviews summarized from between Jun 2025 and Jul 2025

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Visitors praise the unique concept combining books and coffee, creating an inspiring atmosphere perfect for reading and working. The homemade cakes receive high marks, particularly the cheesecake and seasonal offerings. Staff knowledge about books impresses guests.

Some customers find seating limited during peak hours, making it difficult to secure preferred spots. A few mention that food portions could be larger for the price point. Service occasionally slows when the venue reaches capacity.

2

Ferber Bread & Wine

Main Town
sit down
European
Optional

Ferber Bread & Wine occupies a charming spot in Gdańsk's Main Town, serving as both a cozy cafe and restaurant with European cuisine. The establishment features warm interiors with wooden accents and comfortable seating that creates an inviting atmosphere for both locals and tourists. Their menu combines traditional Polish dishes with international options, including hearty breakfasts, fresh salads, pasta dishes, and daily specials. The cafe attracts visitors throughout the day, from morning coffee seekers to evening diners. Staff members are known for their friendly service and willingness to accommodate dietary preferences. The location provides easy access to major attractions while offering a peaceful retreat from busy tourist areas.

Summary of reviews from

Google

Prime location with beautiful interior and exterior decoration. Coffee stands out as really delicious, even cold americano impresses. Affordable prices with cocktails at 31 zloty. Creative dishes like baker soup served inside bread. Bakery selection looks appealing. Overall satisfying meals that leave diners full.

Staff consistently rude and dismissive across multiple visits. Service marked by indifferent attitude, ignoring customers, and using phones instead of helping. Food quality mediocre - described as okay but nothing groundbreaking. Breakfast particularly disappointing. Staff attitude problems overshadow the dining experience.

Reviews summarized from between Jun 2024 and Apr 2025

Summary of reviews from

Tripadvisor

Ferber offers a cozy, atmospheric setting perfect for coffee, wine, and people watching. The goulash soup receives praise, along with specialty drinks like hot chocolate with cherry liqueur and ginger honey drinks. Service can be pleasant and friendly. The location provides great views for observing street life, and prices are reasonable.

Service quality varies dramatically, with some staff being extremely abrupt and unfriendly. One server was described as stony-faced, tossing menus casually and even grabbing customers' phones without permission. Food service can be slow, and the closed wooden door creates an unwelcoming first impression for visitors.

Reviews summarized from between Dec 2024 and Apr 2025

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Guests praise the cozy atmosphere and friendly staff who provide attentive service. The food quality receives consistent compliments, particularly breakfast options and daily specials. Many appreciate the central location that makes it convenient for sightseeing breaks.

Some visitors mention occasional slow service during peak hours and limited seating availability. A few reviews note that prices are slightly higher than expected for portion sizes, and weekend crowds can make the space feel cramped.

3

Mon Balzac

Main Town
sit down
french
Optional

Mon Balzac has a prime spot in Gdańsk's Main Town, offering French-inspired cuisine in an elegant atmosphere. The restaurant features classic European dishes with Polish influences, served in a sophisticated dining room with warm lighting and refined decor. Located on a historic street, diners enjoy both traditional Polish fare and international options. The menu changes seasonally, emphasizing fresh ingredients and careful preparation. Service tends to be attentive, with staff knowledgeable about wine pairings. The restaurant attracts both locals celebrating special occasions and tourists seeking upscale dining experiences in Gdańsk's cultural center.

Summary of reviews from

Google

This Gdansk restaurant offers exceptional service with attentive, friendly waitstaff who create memorable experiences. The cozy atmosphere pairs beautifully with Motlawa river views. Food quality impresses with flavorful dishes like black seafood pasta, perfectly cooked beef burgers, and crispy Belgian fries.

The main complaint centers on inconsistent bread quality, with one reviewer noting day-old bread served with an otherwise high-quality burger. Prices are somewhat expensive, though reviewers suggest they're typical for riverside restaurants in the area.

Reviews summarized from between Jan 2025 and Jul 2025

Summary of reviews from

Tripadvisor

Diners enjoyed excellent food with generous portions like meaty ribs that left guests satisfied. The live entertainment stands out, featuring a talented resident pianist and singer who created memorable sing-alongs with Beatles classics. Young visiting pianists impressed with Chopin performances. Service receives high praise, particularly waitress Magdalena who provided attentive, friendly care throughout the evening.

The reviews provided don't mention any significant negative aspects about this Gdansk restaurant. Both groups of diners had overwhelmingly positive experiences with no complaints about food quality, service, atmosphere, or pricing. The lack of criticism suggests this establishment consistently delivers satisfying dining experiences for visitors.

Reviews summarized from between Apr 2025 and May 2025

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Guests praise the excellent food quality and sophisticated atmosphere. Many highlight the attentive service and knowledgeable staff. The wine selection receives frequent compliments, with diners appreciating the thoughtful pairings suggested by servers.

Some visitors find the prices steep for the portion sizes offered. Occasionally, service can be slow during peak dining hours. A few guests mention that the menu options feel limited, particularly for those with specific dietary restrictions.

4

Manekin

Old Town
sit down
pancakes
Not required

Manekin is Gdańsk's beloved crêpe destination, serving both sweet and savory pancakes in a casual dining atmosphere. The restaurant offers an extensive menu featuring traditional Polish naleśniki alongside international variations, with options ranging from classic jam and cream fillings to hearty combinations with meat, vegetables, and cheese. Located in the city center, this popular spot attracts both locals and tourists seeking comfort food at reasonable prices. The interior provides a cozy setting with simple decor that puts focus on the freshly prepared pancakes. Portions are generous and the kitchen accommodates various dietary preferences including vegetarian options. Service is typically friendly though can slow during peak hours due to high demand.

Summary of reviews from

Google

Manekin offers excellent pancakes with sweet and savory options in a cozy atmosphere. Staff provides attentive service and speaks English well. The restaurant delivers great value with affordable prices and generous portions. Located in central Gdansk, it's popular with families and consistently serves delicious food worth the visit.

The restaurant is always extremely busy, creating wait times of 10-15 minutes for tables and 40-45 minutes for food service. The high demand and popularity means visitors should plan extra time and arrive early. The location is not easily visible from the main road, making it somewhat difficult to find.

Reviews summarized from between Mar 2024 and Jul 2025

Summary of reviews from

Tripadvisor

Visitors from Texas praise the diverse menu that appeals to everyone. Generous portion sizes make sharing easy and allow trying multiple dishes. Food quality consistently impresses with great flavors. Reasonable prices create excellent value. Each visit delivers a reliably positive dining experience.

The reviews provided contain no negative feedback or criticism about this destination. All visitor experiences were entirely positive with no complaints mentioned about service, food quality, pricing, or any other aspects of their visits.

Reviews summarized from between Oct 2023 and Jun 2025

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Visitors praise the delicious pancakes with generous portions and reasonable prices. Many highlight the friendly staff and cozy atmosphere. The variety of sweet and savory options receives frequent compliments, with particular appreciation for the fresh ingredients and authentic Polish flavors.

Some guests report slow service during busy periods and occasional long waits for tables. A few reviews mention inconsistent food quality and that the restaurant can become quite crowded, especially on weekends, making the dining experience less comfortable.

5

Drukarnia Cafe

Main Town
sit down
modern european
Optional

Drukarnia Cafe occupies a restored printing house building in Gdańsk's Main Town, creating an atmospheric dining space that celebrates the city's publishing heritage. The industrial-chic interior features exposed brick walls, vintage printing equipment, and high ceilings that transport visitors back to the era of traditional typography. This unique venue serves modern European cuisine with Polish influences, offering everything from hearty breakfast plates to sophisticated dinner options. The menu changes seasonally to highlight local ingredients and regional specialties. Located steps from the iconic Neptune Fountain and Long Market, Drukarnia provides both tourists and locals with a memorable dining experience that combines historical ambiance with contemporary culinary excellence.

Summary of reviews from

Google

Visitors praise the excellent coffee, especially lattes and Americanos, plus delicious cheesecakes and pastries. The friendly, helpful staff creates a welcoming atmosphere. The outdoor seating offers lovely street views, making it a perfect spot to relax. Many guests appreciate the cozy ambiance and would return daily.

Service can be inconsistent with long waits and missing orders during busy periods. Some pastries like cinnamon buns and banana bread were reported as dry. The cafe struggles with crowds and isn't suitable for large groups. One reviewer called it an overrated tourist trap with disappointing coffee quality.

Reviews summarized from between Mar 2025 and Jul 2025

Summary of reviews from

Tripadvisor

Stylish cafe with multiple seating areas inside, outside, and upstairs. Serves exceptional specialty coffee and flavorful drinks like strawberry cloud latte. Staff are welcoming and pleasant. Located on charming back street near amber shops. Appeals to wide age range with tasty pastries and breakfast options. Tour guides recommend it as a perfect spot to unwind.

Gets busy due to popularity, which may affect the relaxed atmosphere some visitors seek.

Reviews summarized from between May 2025 and Jun 2025

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Visitors praise the stunning industrial atmosphere and unique printing house setting. Many highlight the excellent coffee quality and creative breakfast options. The attentive service and knowledgeable staff receive frequent compliments. Diners appreciate the seasonal menu changes and fresh local ingredients used throughout.

Some guests mention longer wait times during peak tourist seasons. A few reviews note that prices are higher than typical Gdańsk cafes. Occasional complaints about limited seating availability and the need to wait for tables during busy periods.

6

Cafe Goldwasser

Main Town
sit down
traditional Polish
Optional

Cafe Goldwasser has a prime location on Gdansk's famous Long Market, serving traditional Polish cuisine in an elegant historic setting. The restaurant features classic dishes like pierogi, kotlet schabowy, and regional specialties alongside international options. Diners enjoy views of the colorful merchant houses while experiencing authentic Polish hospitality. The interior combines old-world charm with modern comfort, creating an atmosphere that appeals to both tourists and locals. The menu emphasizes fresh, locally-sourced ingredients prepared using time-honored recipes. Service maintains professional standards befitting the prestigious Main Town location. The establishment operates as a full-service restaurant with table service throughout the day.

Summary of reviews from

Google

Excellent gourmet dining with outstanding food quality. Standout dishes include cauliflower cream soup, chili con carne, pumpkin soup, and traditional Polish Zurek. Amazing riverside views create lovely atmosphere. Friendly, attentive service with cozy, quirky ambience. Good value set lunch at 59zł. Multiple visitors returned during same trip.

Restaurant can get quite busy during peak times. Pricing is on the higher side, though most reviewers felt the quality justified the cost. Limited specific complaints mentioned, with most issues being minor inconveniences rather than serious problems.

Reviews summarized from between Sep 2024 and Jul 2025

Summary of reviews from

Tripadvisor

Goldwasser restaurant sits in Gdansk's Old Town Center with historic charm and a lovely outdoor terrace. Visitors praise the friendly service, good food quality, and welcoming atmosphere that makes it a daily favorite. The classic menu and central location create an excellent haven from bad weather.

The restaurant carries higher prices and shows its age with dated decor. Service quality varies from decent to just okay. The outdoor terrace experience can be disrupted by nearby smokers, which may affect your dining comfort depending on seating and weather conditions.

Reviews summarized from between Jul 2025 and Jul 2025

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Visitors praise the authentic Polish cuisine and excellent location on Long Market. Many highlight the friendly service and beautiful historic atmosphere. The pierogi and traditional meat dishes receive particular acclaim for their quality and generous portions.

Some guests mention higher prices typical of tourist areas. Occasional complaints about slow service during peak hours. A few reviews note that certain dishes can be heavy or overly rich for some tastes.

7

Pijalnia Czekolady E. Wedel

Main Town
sit down
chocolate and desserts
Not required

Pijalnia Czekolady E. Wedel brings Warsaw's famous chocolate house tradition to Gdańsk's historic Main Town. This elegant café serves premium hot chocolates, handcrafted desserts, and light meals in a sophisticated atmosphere. The venue features classic European café décor with comfortable seating areas perfect for afternoon treats or casual meetings. Their signature thick hot chocolate comes in multiple flavors, accompanied by freshly made cakes, pastries, and ice cream sundaes. The location attracts both tourists exploring the Old Town and locals seeking quality sweets. Staff knowledge about chocolate varieties and brewing methods enhances the authentic Polish café experience.

Summary of reviews from

Google

Visitors praise the excellent coffee, especially espresso and flat white. Food quality receives consistent compliments, with fondue and croissants standing out. Staff earn high marks for being friendly, polite, and attentive. The café offers flexible seating options including outdoor tables, covered veranda, and indoor spaces.

Long wait times frequently frustrate customers, with orders taking 20-25 minutes despite low crowds. Service quality varies significantly between locations. Some drinks lack proper coffee flavor, requiring extra shots. Food temperature issues occur, with waffles served cold. Higher prices may deter budget-conscious diners.

Reviews summarized from between May 2024 and Jul 2025

Summary of reviews from

Tripadvisor

Guests consistently praise this downtown hotel for its prime location and exceptional service. The property features spotless rooms and facilities, with staff receiving high marks for friendliness and efficiency. Standout amenities include an excellent breakfast and rooftop bar with attentive service.

No significant negative aspects were mentioned in the provided reviews. All guests expressed satisfaction with their stay and indicated they would return, suggesting consistently positive experiences across service, cleanliness, and location.

Reviews summarized from between Jul 2025 and Jul 2025

Summary of reviews from

Claude

Visitors praise the rich, authentic hot chocolate that lives up to Wedel's reputation. The cozy atmosphere and prime Old Town location make it perfect for breaks during sightseeing. Staff receives compliments for friendliness and chocolate expertise.

Some guests find prices higher than expected for portion sizes. Occasional complaints about slow service during peak tourist hours. Limited savory food options disappoint visitors seeking full meals rather than just sweets.

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