Sunday, February 26, 2012

Prague Nightlife

Prague has so much nightlife to offer you can go dizzy with finding all the different bars and clubs that pour the best beer and pump the best beat. I, in fact, devoted myself this weekend (and week because sleeping apparently isn't cool in college) to the night. What I found though was that you don't have to go far from your doorstep to experience the best places. There are a bunch of reviews on Prague Nightlife at http://www.expats.cz/prague/directory/bars/ if you are looking for more pieces here, this will just be an overview of some places I went to and the night environment I found.

First things first. Don't whatever you do walk out your door to a club at 10:00pm, you'll find them all empty and you and your friends will look rather silly. Around 10:00pm on a week day or 11:00pm on a weekend pick a bar close by to meet with friends and to start your night. Be wary that most bar/restaurants close around 11:00 (if their door says they close at 11:15pm it doesn't mean you can show up until that time and they'll take you that is usually when you should be out the door so last call would be at least 15 minutes before that) I prefer bars close by, in Prague there are many bars called "non-stop" they claim to be twenty-four hours but probably are not. Here they serve beer for cheap: most of them for around 30 czk which today is $1.60. I know right? Alcohol here is considerably less expensive than in the states-although everything is! Another good thing to note is that the metro doesn't run all night. It ends at 12pm and then the night trams run so plan accordingly.

You can head to another bar after you're finished here. There are lots of things to do around Wenceslas Square but be aware that most these bars are part of the international scene so not many locals would be here. This is a good starting point if it's your first night out.

Some places I've been here:

Vinarna U Sudu
Great info http://www.spottedbylocals.com/prague/vinarna-u-sudu/
I really liked this place and wished we stayed longer here. I would definitely go back-what looks like a tiny wine bar actually descends into a labyrinth of different underground hallways with high tables or low tables perfect for a group. The air is smokey but is dog friendly there are also games in one hall like Foosball. Paid 35 czk for a beer, service wasn't bad but I am pretty sure our waitress was drunk haha. Great place to start your evening.

Beer Factory
Great info http://www.expats.cz/prague/article/restaurant-reviews/beer-factory/
This place is known for its pour-your-own-pint system. Go with a big group, pick your drink and pour it yourself. You can also compete with people from other tables. We didn't eat here but the waitress wasn't very helpful. They play good music and a small dance party started but died. They also play all the sports games. The beer is not too bad but pricier than most places. In sum, its a good place to waist some time at but I wouldn't make this my nights' destination.

Nebe
Great info http://www.pragueexperience.com/places.asp?PlaceID=1435
This always seems to be our fall back plan mostly because the tram down the street takes us directly back to housing and really I don't mind. This place has some great atmosphere and really pumps up on the weekends after midnight. Drinks are more expensive here but if you've planned your night right you won't need to buy any here. Get out on that dance floor! They play some great music all familiar American beats from Shakira to Soundtrack from Grease they got it all. No cover but pay 20 czk (about a dollar) to check your coat-this is required. They also pad men down at the door.

Rock O' Reilly
Great info http://www.rockyoreillys.cz/
Prague has some great Irish bars! Rock O' Reilly has great service and they speak English! yay! This is a great place to go during the week or weekend before hitting the club-its right off of Wenceslas :]
Some friends and I at Rock O'Reilly's Bar

Music Sky Bar
Great Info http://www.skybar.cz/
Music Sky Bar is off of the Narodni Trida metro exit. Really open area with great tables and great drinks. Nice service. Small dance floor.

Friends and I sharing a Cuba Libre


Jazz Republic

Great info http://www.jazzrepublic.org/
Awesome location right off of Mustek metro stop. Plays live Jazz bands, tons of seating-good service although little English. Awesome selection of drinks. Great hangout!


I'll probably add here at a later date some more places I've found. There are just so many!!

Whatever you do, do not forget to get a late night (early morning) snack at the vendor carts. The favorite here is Smazeny Syr and my mouth waters talking about it! Imagine a large square mozzarella stick packed inside a hamburger bun with mayo and curry ketchup, oh goodness! Potatoe pancakes are good too! This is a late night tradition and if you don't try it you might as well get back on the plane home!!





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