The historic premises of the former banking hall at the NH Collection Prague Carlo IV hotel are being given a new culinary lease of life. 1890 Restaurant & Bar presents a seasonal menu by Head Chef Josef Votoček, which sensitively blends Czech tradition with a modern gastronomic approach and respect for the current season.
The menu has been created in harmony with nature’s rhythm and the ingredients themselves. Rather than relying on showy yet overly complicated compositions, it focuses on purity of flavour, precise technique and attention to detail. The result is a collection of dishes that feel light and elegant without losing depth or character.
“We base our approach on what is currently available and makes sense. Every course should feel natural and harmonious, yet offer a moment of surprise,” says Head Chef Josef Votoček.
Standout dishes include scallops with tarragon and oyster emulsion, veal loin with chanterelles, and the restaurant’s signature dish – braised beef shoulder with dill sauce, buttered potatoes and a delicate dill espuma. Modern vegetarian dishes also have a firm place on the menu, confirming that vegetables can now be a fully fledged and confident star of the plate.
A new addition is the tasting menu, which presents the kitchen’s philosophy in its purest form. Five carefully crafted courses guide guests from fresh, light notes through to more pronounced flavours and an elegant sweet finale. Naturally, there is also the option of pairing wines or non-alcoholic drinks, which highlight the character of each course and complete the overall experience.
The dessert section of the menu, led by Pastry Chef Anička Vávrová, also deserves special attention. Her creations are based on seasonal ingredients, delicacy and a precise eye for detail. The desserts are designed to flow naturally from the previous courses and bring the menu to a close with lightness and elegance.
The whole experience is enhanced by the restaurant’s setting, situated in the historic heart of the NH Collection Prague Carlo IV hotel, in the building of the former First Provincial Mortgage Bank dating from the late 19th century. The Neo-Renaissance architecture, high ceilings and authentic character of the space create a backdrop that lends a festive dimension to every visit.
But the experience here doesn’t end with dinner. The renowned breakfasts combine a lavish buffet with an à la carte selection and, on selected days, are accompanied by live music performed by top-class artists, including a harpist from the Czech National Symphony Orchestra. The atmosphere thus takes on an almost ceremonial dimension.
Friday and Saturday evenings then flow seamlessly into a more relaxed rhythm at the adjacent 1890 Bar, where an elegant setting blends with cocktails, wine and live music.
The concept also includes The Vault Lounge, situated in the original bank vault. The space, featuring historic safes and authentic security features, offers signature cocktails inspired by films shot at the hotel, including The Bourne Identity and Spider-Man: Far From Home.
1890 Restaurant & Bar thus creates a comprehensive gastronomic and social experience in the heart of Prague — a place where history naturally blends with the present and where every visit can easily turn into an event remembered long afterwards.
Source: 1890 Restaurant & Bar
