Aperitif

Aperitif Overview

A welcome arrival on Krakow’s restaurant scene, Aperitif manages to achieve what eludes so many of its competitors: a diverse and tasty menu, served cheerfully and priced reasonably. In fact this probably understates the case considerably – Aperitif adapts its menu to the best ingredients available for the time of year, and is not afraid to offer simple stuff like cheeseburgers on its (very reasonable) fixed price lunch menus in comparison to the more elaborate fare available a la carte, including sophisticated treats of Polish local cuisine.

Set behind a modest frontage on the south side of the Maly Rynek – some 100 metres east of Krakow’s Main Market Square, Aperitif has a particularly charming summer terrace to the rear as well as generous accommodation inside. The décor is somewhat reminiscent of a modest but high quality Provencal restaurant, with cream-painted walls, straightforward furnishings and understated rustic touches.

The menu changes regularly and avoids rigid adherence to any one ‘style’ of cuisine, but recent offerings include such delights as: rabbit leg caramelized in honey braised in red wine and plum served with roasted vegetables, crispy duck confit with cranberries and potato gratin and roast chicken stuffed with sheep’s cheese, fresh spinach and red 'beurre blanc'. Another option is their ‘tasting menu’; a six-course feast priced at 119zl and designed to showcase the kitchen’s skill and inventiveness.

Good food demands good wine, and Aperitif’s list caters admirably for all wallets with more than 65 reds and whites starting at around 69zl for perfectly reasonable stuff and moving up to the seriously good. The proprietors, who have extensive restaurant experience outside Poland, also realise that service is an important accompaniment to good food and wine, and the staff are friendly, knowledgeable and unobtrusive. Highly recommended.

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