Kafe Zielony Niedźwiedź is my hands-down favorite restaurant in Warsaw – due to its food, ambiance and setting. Located inside the green Park Beyera, this restaurant was born from an effort to reclaim the Polish kitchen – much of which was lost during the invasion of the Soviets.
As Polish cuisine has been slowly remerging from a past of confusion and shame, restaurateurs in the city are making an effort to inform today’s visitors and residents of Warsaw, of the cooking heritage that was a part of this nation’s identity for generations.
Setting into a seat at a table outside that overlooks the lush green forest surroundings, it’s easy to feel comfortable and at home. Servers bustle in and out of the kitchen and bar area, delivering freshly made dishes that tell a story from Poland’s past. Kafe Zielony Niedźwiedź offers guests a menu that educates them on the origins of their food.
There is a list, with pictures, of farmers and areas throughout the country where your meal is coming from. I have never seen this done before, and was thoroughly impressed. You can read through the descriptions of the farmers and purveyors, almost getting to know them personally.
On the menu you will find regional specialties that lean heavily towards vegetables, meat and fish. Soups are delicious, and so is the homemade bread – a nightmare for those looking to watch their carbohydrate intake. No matter what you choose, including a bottle of Polish wine, you won’t be let down. This place cannot be missed.