Michelin Confirms the Growing Quality of Pilsen Gastronomy

In recent years, Pilsen has been building an increasingly strong reputation on the Czech map of gastronomy. Two restaurants, Štipec Restaurant and Na Spilce Pub, have been newly included in the prestigious Michelin Guide, one of the most respected gastronomic evaluation systems in the world. It is important to note that this is not about awarding a Michelin star, but about an official Michelin recommendation. This is exactly the point where confusion often arises. The Michelin Guide includes a wide selection of quality restaurants, whereas Michelin stars are awarded only to a narrow range of restaurants with exceptional, world-class cuisine. One simple rule is true: every star is a part of the Michelin Guide, but not every restaurant in the Michelin Guide has the star.

However, being included in the guide does not definitely mean “playing second fiddle”. It is the other way round – by this, Michelin says that it is a place worth visiting. Inspectors evaluate anonymously, repeatedly, and monitor long-term quality, work with ingredients, consistency of cuisine, and the overall gastronomic experience. Furthermore, the success of both Pilsen restaurants shows the breadth of the local gastronomic scene. The Na Spilce Pub, a traditional part of the Pilsner Urquell brewery area, scores a success with an honest, home-style Czech cuisine, craft approach, and perfectly crafted beer. The Štipec Restaurant, by contrast, represents the more modern side of Pilsen – an open kitchen, an emphasis on ingredients, and a unique concept that combines the craftsmanship and creativity.

What both recognitions have in common is the fact that Michelin does not view gastronomy solely as fine dining in metropolises, but increasingly focuses on regional cuisine, authenticity, and long-term quality. The inclusion of the Štipec Restaurant and Na Spilce Pub in the Michelin Guide is therefore not just a success of these individual restaurants, but also evidence of the growing confidence and quality of the entire gastronomic scene in Pilsen.