Welcome to Gdansk, Poland—a city that transforms into a vibrant culinary playground each summer during St. Dominic’s Fair. If you’re planning a summer trip to Europe, Gdansk and this festival should be at the top of your list. Here’s a taste of what to expect at this incredible event, from must-try foods to hidden gems.
St. Dominic’s Fair
Running from July to August, St. Dominic’s Fair is one of Europe’s largest summer festivals, drawing over 5 million visitors annually. It’s a city-wide celebration that rivals Oktoberfest in scale and excitement. This year, we stayed at the charming Hotel Wolne Miasto, perfectly situated to soak in the festival's energy.
While enjoying the festival, take time to explore Gdansk’s beautiful sights. Visit its stunning churches, museums, and the iconic Old Town. For a memorable view, climb to the top of the local tower—though it’s not for the faint-hearted!
With its pleasant summer weather, Gdansk is known as one of the most pedestrian-friendly cities. If you wish to explore beyond the old town, the metro system is easily accessible, making it a breeze to reach the beach and other attractions thanks to convenient ticket options and public transportation.
What to Eat
Oscypek
Our first stop was a stall serving **Oscypek**, a traditional smoked cheese from the Tatra Mountains. This cheese, cooked on a griddle and sometimes wrapped in bacon, is a delightful blend of firm and salty flavors. While the bacon adds an extra punch, we found it best enjoyed on its own, paired with a tangy berry compote.
Cinnamon Rolls
If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss the giant cinnamon rolls. Fluffy, light, and not overly sweet, these rolls are generously frosted and packed with cinnamon. The variety of options, including pistachio and rose petal, adds to the indulgence.
Lemonade from a Bike
For a refreshing drink, we stopped at a vendor making lemonade on a bicycle. Freshly squeezed lemon, ginger, and mint mixed with cold water created the perfect summer beverage, minus the ice to avoid waste.
Coffee and Cake at Josef K
A visit to Josef K for a coffee and cake is a must. We tried the blueberry tart, a delicate blend of blueberry jam, whipped cream, and sliced almonds. The cake’s balance of sweetness and freshness, paired with a strong espresso, made for an ideal afternoon break.
Fried Herring
For those adventurous with their taste buds, fried herring is an intriguing choice. Served with a sweet bread crust and tartar sauce, the combination of cold fish and warm, sweet bread was an unusual but memorable experience.
Lard Toast
Lard toast might sound strange, but it’s a Polish delicacy worth trying. Thick slices of bread topped with lard, sausage, pickled peppers, and fresh chives create a rich and satisfying treat. It's messy but deliciously hearty.
Cherbeck
Cherbeck is a deep-fried turnover filled with spinach, feta, and walnuts. The crispy exterior and savory filling make it a delightful snack or light meal.
Dining Beyond the Festival
Mandu
Mandu, with its wild boar dumplings and peanut sauce, is a highlight of Gdansk’s dining scene. The wild boar dumplings, served with a creamy mushroom sauce, are tender and flavorful. Meanwhile, the crispy peanut dumplings are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures.
Tapas Rybka
For a meal by the beach, head to Tapas Rybka. We enjoyed a fish casserole and a refreshing fish soup, both seasoned with dill. The fish casserole, likened to fish lasagna, was loaded with fish and cheese, while the soup offered a flavorful, dill-infused taste of the sea.
Pyra Bar
Finally, for potato lovers, Pyra Bar offers a variety of potato-based dishes. We tried the potato pancake and the jacket potato, both generously topped with sour cream and cottage cheese. The potato pancake, with its spongy texture, and the hearty jacket potato, were both standout dishes.
Gdansk during St. Dominic’s Fair is a vibrant, culinary adventure filled with unique flavors and local specialties. From savory treats to sweet indulgences, every corner of the festival offers a new taste experience. Whether you’re a foodie or simply exploring, Gdansk in the summer is a destination you won’t want to miss.
So pack your bags and get ready to enjoy the flavors and sights of one of Europe’s most charming cities!
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