Local Nomad Tours

Slovak Dishes and Specialties You Should Try!

Igor — Wed, 31 Dec 2025 11:16:05 +0000

When you visit Slovakia, try to experience the country not only through sightseeing and conversations with locals, but also through taste. Here are a few local specialties you definitely shouldn’t miss. Some of them are easy to find in restaurants—others you’ll have to be lucky enough to be offered by your Slovak friends.

Bryndza Cheese

This is a must-have Slovak cheese, the cornerstone of many of our national dishes. Bryndza is creamy white in appearance and known for its distinctive, strong smell and taste. It is tangy, crumbly, slightly moist, and unmistakable.

We highly recommend trying bryndzové pirohy or the iconic bryndzové halušky. But keep in mind—this is a very filling meal. After such a lunch, you’ll either want to take a nap or go chop some wood. Visiting a gallery or the opera with a stomach full of bryndza dumplings may not be the most enjoyable experience.

If you’d like to taste bryndza without overeating, try an excellent bryndza soup at Reštaurácia U Leva in Levoča. Rated 10/10 by gourmets!

Poppy Seed Dishes

In many parts of the world, growing poppy seeds is restricted, which is why recipes using this wonderful, slightly “calming” ingredient are often missing from local cuisines. In Slovakia, however, we love poppy seeds—and we eat them in generous quantities.

When visiting, try poppy seed dumplings (makové šúľance), noodles with poppy seeds, makovník (poppy seed roll), opekance with poppy seeds, or sweet buns filled with poppy seeds. We value opekance so much that they have become a traditional Christmas dessert in many parts of Slovakia.

Just one tip: after any poppy seed treat, it’s a good idea to brush your teeth. Those tiny black seeds can quickly turn your smile into a classic “hobo smile.”

Kočonina / Huspenina (Meat Jelly)

You will either love this dish unconditionally—or hate it. There is no middle ground. A lukewarm relationship with kočonina simply does not exist.

It is a strong broth made from beef or pork bones and cartilage, cooked for many hours and then left to cool. The result is a jelly-like dish that amusingly wiggles and dances when touched. It is typically served with onions, lemon, or vinegar. Personally, I could eat an endless amount of it.

Treska (Cod Salad)

This legendary delicacy from the socialist era still reigns supreme in Slovak snack bars today. A favorite among the working class, students, and food lovers alike.

Give Treska salad a chance at least once—you might be surprised. It really doesn’t disappoint.

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The East Tastes Like Salt

Igor — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 14:59:00 +0000

If you decide to explore eastern Slovakia, I recommend not only seeing it, but tasting it as well. Set off on the Salt Route!

Prešov Saltworks (Solivar)

Your first stop should be the Prešov Saltworks (Solivar) – a historic salt mine where salt has been extracted since the 16th century. Today, this unique museum is considered one of the most fascinating technical monuments in Slovakia. The guided tour is engaging, educational, and fun for both adults and children.

Solnohrad (Salt Castle)

There is a reason why people say “salt is worth more than gold.” Such a precious resource had to be protected. As early as the 13th century, the valuable salt springs were guarded by a fortress known as Zbojnícky Castle, also called Solnohrad (Salt Castle). Once an impregnable stronghold, it is now a pleasant hiking destination and an excellent viewpoint overlooking the entire region.

16th-century manor house

If you are more drawn to aristocracy and posh history, leave the castle behind and head to Hanušovce nad Topľou. From the 13th to the 20th century, this area was home to the noble de Soóso family, owners of the local salt springs. Their 16th-century manor house is a beautiful example of Renaissance architecture and offers a glimpse into aristocratic life of the past.

The best bread you have ever tasted

And if you start to feel hungry, try writing to the mayor of the village Vlača. As Václav Havel might have called it, this place is a small island of positive deviation. With the help of EU funds, the village built a gazebo, an information center, and a traditional bread and pizza oven. Local women will welcome you with what may well be the best bread you have ever tasted.

Realizované s finančnou podporou Ministerstva cestovného ruchu a športu SR
With the financial support of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports of the Slovak Republic.

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Hidden Gems of Eastern Slovakia

Igor — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 13:08:05 +0000

If you’ve already explored Košice and feel ready for something new, it’s time for a day trip. Here are the must-see destinations just outside the city.

The Oldest Opal Mines in the World – and the Only Ones in Eurasia

Just a 30-minute drive from Košice lies a sprawling network of underground tunnels stretching for dozens of kilometers. Opal was mined here from pre-Roman times all the way to the early 20th century. On the guided tour, you’ll learn about the history and mining techniques, but you’ll also hear thrilling stories and legends connected to this mysterious place. Visitors can choose between a one-hour tour or an adventurous four-hour route deep into the mine. This site is a true world rarity – don’t miss it!

Roma Street Food Near the Opal Mines

After your underground adventure, refuel at the local Roma food truck. Try iconic specialties such as goja, marikľe, or their famously tender ribs. It’s the most delicious way to experience Roma culture.

Strike It Rich in a Gold Mine

If you don’t feel like traveling to California — and you’ve already missed the Klondike Gold Rush — no worries. You can try real gold panning in the village called Zlatá Baňa (“Golden Mine”), about 30 minutes from Košice. A former mayor and passionate local enthusiast Dušan Demčák will teach you the technique, and whatever gold you find… you get to keep! Call him: +421 910 507 748

Authentic Slovakia

To see how our ancestors lived, dressed, and celebrated, head to the village of Zamutov and visit the charming rural museum U Cetky. The owners, Štefan and Anna Višňovský, have dedicated their lives to preserving Slovak folklore and traditional folk culture. With warmth and passion, they will guide you through the colorful world of local customs, costumes, and everyday life from the past. We recommend this place 10/10!

Lakeside Sauna at Sigord

If you’re exploring the region in winter, end your day in the romantic outdoor sauna by Lake Sigord. Low price, maximum experience! You book the sauna online, a local caretaker heats it up before you arrive, and you simply show up to a perfectly warmed retreat. The cooling? Directly in the lake. An unforgettable experience!

Gallery:

Realizované s finančnou podporou Ministerstva cestovného ruchu a športu SR
With the financial support of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports of the Slovak Republic.

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Where to Eat in Košice? – Tips from a Local

Igor — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 21:25:42 +0000

This isn’t a paid promotion—just honest recommendations from a local who loves food. Whether you’re after traditional Slovak dishes, international cuisine, or regional specialties, here’s where to find the best restaurants in Kosice!

Ohnisko – A Culinary Gem

Hands down the most exciting restaurant in town. Just a 10-minute walk from the city center, Ohnisko blends local ingredients with global inspiration. Expect creative dishes, craft beers on tap, and an excellent selection of regional wines. A must for food lovers!

Hostinec – Slovakia’s Oldest Restaurant with Timeless Quality

If you’re not in the mood to wander far, stop by Hostinec—just steps from the main square. This historic spot combines Gothic architecture with consistently great food. Traditional Slovak cuisine, hearty portions, and craft beer await you.

Camelot – For Beer Lovers and Meat Eaters

Just a minute from the Main Street (Hlavná ulica), Camelot is the go-to spot for hearty Central European dishes. Whether you’re craving schnitzels, beef tartare, goulash, or ribs—this is where meat meets mastery. Don’t miss the perfectly tapped Pilsner!

Slávia – The Perfect Date Night Spot

Want something a bit more romantic? Slávia is your place. With its stunning Art Nouveau interior and elegant atmosphere, it’s ideal for a lunch or dinner with your special someone. Classic European charm meets great food—Old Europe at its finest.

Le Colonial – Elegant, Classy, and Delicious

Looking for fine dining? Le Colonial serves up duck, veal, foie gras, schnitzel, and lamb in style. The chef’s attention to detail makes this a top choice for slow dinners, family celebrations, or business meetings. Tastefully luxurious.

Villa Regia – Traditional Slovak Flavors Done Right

Craving an authentic Slovak meal? Villa Regia delivers. Warm, cozy, and reliable, this restaurant serves up hearty local specialties and traditional recipes that reflect the region’s rich culinary heritage.

Robert Nemeti Freelance Photographer

Villa Sandy – Gourmet Dining in the City Park

If you’re in the mood to splurge, take a five-minute walk from the main street into the city park and discover Villa Sandy—one of Košice’s newest culinary jewels. Sophisticated atmosphere, exquisite food, and perfect for special occasions.

After a good lunch or dinner, join us for an unforgettable city tour!

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Tokaj wine tasting from Košice

Igor — Sat, 14 Sep 2024 10:51:48 +0000

It is only an hour’s drive from Košice and is regularly ranked among the top 10 wine regions in the world. Yes, we are talking about Tokaj!

How did it all start?

At the beginning of the 13th century, the Mongol horde galloped into Europe, leaving no survivors. A large part of Central and Eastern Europe remained destroyed and depopulated. Therefore, the Hungarian king Belo IV. decided to revive these areas and invited settlers from all around Europe. Most often, they were German miners and builders, but also Italians who, besides trading also excelled in viticulture. It didn’t take long before they found out that the conditions for growing wine in the Tokaj region are excellent…

What makes Tokaj so unique?

It is located on a volcanic, tufa subsoil that drains water well and at the same time retains and accumulates heat, which is excellent for the vines.
Thanks to the unique climate – there are short morning fogs in autumn, which help the growth of the noble rot Botrytis cinerea. It attacks the grape berries, which slowly dry up and shrink, due to which the concentration of sugar in them increases. These berries are used in the production of legendary sweet Azsú wines (wine of kings king of wines).
Wines are stored in ancient cellars, many of which were dug as far back as the 13th century, as a shelter from the Mongol invaders. People later discovered that if you store wine in them, it achieves exceptional qualities. The reason is – wine cellar fungus Cladosporium cellare. It lives on wine vapors and in return helps to maintain ideal humidity and temperature in the cellars.

Tokaj are not only sweet wines!

One of the most common mistakes that people associate with Tokaj is that Tokaj wines are sweet. However, that is no longer the case. Besides traditional sweet wines, you can also find fantastic dry wines, sparkling wines, orange wines, and straw wines. You have a lot to discover here!

Tokaj wine tasting from Košice

If you want to get to know Tokaj, we will be happy to take you there. We most often cooperate with small, family winemakers from Veľká Trňa. In addition to great wines, you will get to know their personal stories, visit old cellars, and experience the unique atmosphere. Tokaj wine tasting from Košice is the best thing you can do especially on rainy days, when you have nothing to do.

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What to do in Košice?

Igor — Sun, 09 Jun 2024 17:30:11 +0000

Hi traveler! If you decide to stay a couple of days in Košice, here are my tips for nightlife, gastronomy, culture, and day trips to the region. Instead of a long read, I have created a useful map for you! More tips here.

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Meet Slovak Mythical Creatures

Igor — Thu, 25 Apr 2024 12:54:22 +0000

Take a look – Slovakia truly is a beautiful country. Towering mountains, deep forests, treacherous canyons, and endless meadows. There’s plenty to explore here. But before you embark on your adventures, allow me to introduce you to the Slovak mythical creatures that inhabit these places. I’m not making this up; I’m drawing from a book of folk tales from the early 20th century.

1. Grgolica

A colossal forest woman with hands as large as shovels and a head as big as a barrel. Her wild hair billows over her head like a black cloud. If you wander alone in the forests and hear strange sounds resembling whistling, never repeat that sound. Like a storm, Grgolica will rush towards you and suffocate you between her tits. Quite a peculiar demise. Honestly, I look forward to Hollywood discovering this mythological character…

2. Vodník

A creature living in lakes and deep rivers. His favorite pastime? Drowning swimmers and people who get too close to the water. He keeps the souls of his victims in small jars in his underwater hide.

3. Smrtka

Smrtka is an old woman – the personification of death. She’s draped in a black cloak and instead of feet, she has duck legs. Occasionally, she wears paper shoes. Besides taking people’s lives, she enjoys scaring them as well. Sometimes she might ask you for a ride on your cart or to carry her across the water. One moment she’s as heavy as a sack of lead, and the next she’s light as a feather…

4. Svetlonos

If you find yourself wandering through the woods and darkness catches you, stay put. It’s safer that way. You won’t stumble into any pits, caves, or swamps. And that’s exactly what the Svetlonos is trying to trick you into. It’s a dark silhouette carrying a lantern or a flickering flame. Its light might easily be mistaken for a distant home or village light. But if you follow it, it’ll lead you straight into the nearest swamp, where you’ll drown.

5. Kone bez čeľustí

Jawless horses sometimes graze on the edges of forests. You might encounter them mainly at night. If you saddle up one of these demonic creatures, it could easily carry you off into the water, where you’ll drown. But if they’re in a better mood, they’ll transport you wherever you need to go so quickly that you’ll never forget it for the rest of your life. It’s said that jawless horses are actually disguised devils. Jawless horses are one of the rarest Slovak mythical creatures.

6. Mora

The Nightmare is a spiritual entity that primarily inhabits places where something bad has happened before. If you sleep in such a place, you’ll experience dreadful dreams and often suffer from sleep paralysis. Your mind may wake up, but your body will remain immobile and terrified for a while.

7. Čert

A lesser demon who roams the earth trying to steal human souls. He’s always ready to promise you anything, as long as you sign his contract with your blood—a contract crafted by the finest lawyers of hell. Sometimes he looks like a typical demon, other times just like an ordinary person. Sometimes, his horns or horse hooves will expose him. Some devils are cunning and wicked, while others are foolish, unsuccessful, and unhappy.

Go meet the demons

If you haven’t had the luck—or perhaps misfortune—of meeting any of these creatures, you can always go out and look for them.

Zmok

Zmok is a household demon that can bring you a lot of money and fulfill many wishes. You might stumble upon it by chance, looking like a drenched little chick, or you can raise one yourself. If you have a black hen at home, take one of her dark eggs and keep it under your arm until it hatches into a zmok. It will either look like a black chicken or like a flying, fiery chain in the sky. The biggest problem with a zmok is that it’s very hard to get rid of. If you fail, you’ll pay for its ownership with your own soul. The advice from older generations is to be creative and give it a task that it cannot complete. Then it will disappear.

Luciin stolček

I bet sometimes some of your female friends or lovers seem like real witches. In Slovakia, we have a way to verify your suspicions. The tool is called “Lucia’s stool.” Here’s how to make it: Start on December 13th, St. Lucia’s Day, by crafting a small wooden bench at home. This bench must not contain a single nail or piece of iron. Work slowly and finish your creation by Christmas, December 24th. Take Lucia’s stool to the midnight mass at church and sit on it. At that moment, you will reveal all the witches in the church. The problem is, they will also see you and will try to silence you—usually by killing you. So, when fleeing from them, prepare to scatter poppy seeds from your pockets along the way. They cannot catch you until they have picked up all the seeds. However, if they catch you and you do not swear to secrecy, they will break all your bones, and your body will end up looking more like mud. A terrible way to die.

Source of information about Slovak mythical creatures: Na krížnych cestách: Poverové rozprávanie slovenského ľudu, 1991, Tatran

If you want to know more about the Slovak tradition, take a tour with us!

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Taste an unexpected Slovak national dish

Igor — Wed, 10 Apr 2024 08:07:07 +0000

This winter, I caught up with my good friend who recently got married in Japan. She, along with her husband Takahiro, visited me, and we spent a few hours chatting about Japan and Slovakia. One particular thing from our conversation has stayed with me.

When I asked Takahiro if there was any food he particularly liked or found impressive, he responded without hesitation: Treska! He believed it was a Slovak product worth exporting to Japan, stating that Japanese people would love it. It is an unexpected Slovak national dish.

But what exactly is Treska?

We delved into the history of this dish, which originated in Czechoslovakia in the 1950s. Its creation was pragmatic, related to decreased fish sales in Czechoslovakia at the time. The state-owned company Ryba (Fish) tasked the renowned chef Július Boško with inventing a tasty and affordable dish using fish meat. Thus, Treska was born — Cod Fish Salad with Mayonnaise, vegetables, vinegar, mustard, and a few other simple ingredients available during the poor times of socialism.

In no time, Treska became a typical breakfast item for the working class, enjoyed with freshly baked rolls, perhaps accompanied by Šariš beer and Mars cigarettes—icons of the working-class culture.

So, if you ever find yourself in Slovakia, forget about the famed bryndzové halušky. All they’ll do is send you into a food coma. Instead, opt for Treska – an unexpected Slovak national dish! You will feel the ocean breeze on your face and evoke the essence of socialism on your plate.

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Why we don’t like being called Eastern Europe?

Igor — Sat, 06 Apr 2024 20:25:01 +0000

You might have come across it before, or maybe not, but Slovaks, Hungarians, Poles, and Czechs don’t particularly like it when you refer to their countries as “Eastern Europe.” It’s better to use the term Central Europe instead. Here’s a brief explanation:

These countries have strong historical and cultural ties to Western Europe rather than Eastern Europe. Their histories are intertwined with Western European influences such as Roman law, the Judeo-Christian religious tradition, and Greek philosophy. This contrasts with the Eastern European countries that have historically been influenced more by Byzantine and Orthodox cultures.

For centuries, the dividing line between East and West was primarily religion. While countries in Central and Western Europe were predominantly Catholic or Protestant, the eastern part of Europe was mainly Orthodox. This difference was also reflected in mentality. Take a look at the religious map of Europe:

The modern division of Europe into the West and East dates back only to the Cold War period, which lasted from 1945 to 1991 – just 46 years.

Long story short: For centuries, we didn’t consider ourselves an “eastern country” – that label emerged only during the 46 years of communist rule, which, as you might have noticed, is over. If you want to know more, join us on our Alternative City Tour.

If you’re interested in literature, check out this essay by writer Milan Kundera:

Post Scriptum

To be honest, on the other hand, it must be said that half of the Slovak population, represented by the current government, would like to be part of the East. Their strange sympathies for Russia cannot be explained other than Stockholm syndrome.

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Enjoy Nightlife in Košice / 10 tips

Igor — Sun, 31 Mar 2024 03:12:30 +0000

Here are 10 tips from the locals about nightlife in Košice. Discover the best nightclubs, cultural centers, and punk epicenters with us! The city is pulsing especially from April to the end of September. Before you read our tips, check all ongoing events here: https://visitkosice.org/en

1. Tabačka Kulturfabrik (culture, parties, food, great atmosphere)

A cultural center popular among young people and the artistic community. Lighthouse of nightlife in Košice. You will find a bar, restaurant, cinema, concerts, theater performances, exhibitions, and wild parties here. Tabačka is liveliest on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Give it a chance! https://tabacka.sk/

2. Kino Úsmev (movies, garden, beer, great atmosphere)

The old cinema from the 1960s currently offers, in addition to movies, one of the most charming places where you can enjoy beer and good drinks during summer evenings. kinousmev.sk

3. Jazz club (club music, nightlife, drinks)

Make no mistake. If you’re looking for jazz music here, you won’t find any. However, if you enjoy parties, drinks, electronic or pop music, this is the right place to go! www.jazzclub-ke.sk

4. Colloseum (subcultures, authentic, cheap, iconic)

Speaking about nightlife in Košice, this is a must! The cradle of subcultures, an excellent place for concerts and all-night entertainment. This iconic pub will very easily draw you into its atmosphere. The wildest days are Fridays and Saturdays. collosseum.sk This is also one of the places we visit on our Alternative city tour.

5. El Nacional (posh, mixed drinks, vivid)

If you like it more posh and have a taste for high-quality mixed drinks, then direct your steps to the Cuban establishment El Nacional. www.elnacional.sk

6. Pokhoi (great beer, summer terrace, authentic)

Uncompromisingly good beer from local and international breweries. In addition, this pub has very authentic bartenders. Don’t miss it when you’re in Košice! Perfect spot for bohéms.

6. New Chicago (children’s room for adults)

This place will be especially enjoyed by younger generations. You will find a lot of games and good drinks here. newchicago.sk

7. Boba Bar (disco, parties, drinks)

Talk less, dance more! This nightclub is popular by both local and international students. The wildest parties here are on Friday and Saturday. Come and dance. www.boba.sk

8. Karaoke Club (music, karaoke, beer)

If you are looking for a karaoke club in Košice, you have exactly one option! You can meet crowds of young people here. Just keep in mind – smoking is allowed inside. You will find it here!

9. Little Havana (tapas, rum, atmosphere)

A beautiful place with excellent tapas and a pleasant vibe. Highly recommended by local lovers of quality rum. You will find it here!

10. Enoteca Centro (great wine, cosy atmosphere)

If you’re the quieter, more romantic type who loves wine, then this is the place to spend your evening. They have top wines and tapas that you will fall in love with. You will find it here!

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