The story
Epoka in Warsaw is a restaurant built on a mission: to revive the true, layered history of Polish cuisine. Drawing from centuries-old culinary books and traditions, the kitchen explores how Poland’s tables evolved – from ancient Slavic flavours to the influences of neighbouring cultures. The goal is to restore dishes and techniques lost during the communist era, presenting them as a living story of the nation’s culinary art.
The restaurant occupies a carefully preserved historic interior, designed in collaboration with a renowned theatrical scenographer. The atmosphere is one of effortless elegance – a place where luxury meets ease, and guests can unwind while exploring a menu that is both scholarly and deeply personal. Service is professional yet welcoming, creating an intimate setting for a memorable evening.
Epoka offers a choice of two tasting journeys. The “Short History” menu (595 PLN) provides a concise exploration of Polish culinary heritage, while the full “History” menu (725 PLN) delves deeper into the evolution of flavours. Both are paired with original wine selections curated by the restaurant’s sommeliers, or with a non-alcoholic pairing (225 PLN and 325 PLN respectively). A 12.5% service fee is added to the bill.
The kitchen prioritises quality and transparency, sourcing ingredients directly from local farmers and small producers. Several times a week, the team visits nearby farms for the freshest vegetables. Honey comes from beehives on Warsaw’s office rooftops, and cheeses and meats are supplied by traditional local businesses. This commitment to sustainable gastronomy ensures that every dish reflects the land and its seasons.
Epoka’s dedication has not gone unnoticed. The restaurant earned a place in the Michelin Guide 2026 as Recommended, and was also included in the prestigious La Liste 1000 ranking of the world’s best restaurants. Its carefully selected wine list earned a spot in the Star Wine List guide, further cementing its reputation as a destination for thoughtful, historically rooted Polish cuisine.
Recognition
Ambience
Details
History
Interior and Atmosphere This restaurant is located in the neo-Renaissance building of the Raffles Hotel on Krakowskie Przedmieście. The historic architecture of the venue has been skillfully highlighted through collaboration with renowned theatrical set designer Boris Kudlička. Epoka features two dining rooms on the same level. The first room is decorated in deep tones, contrasted by the white of the historic cornices beneath the ceiling. The decor of the second room was inspired by the Orient Express; here, the original beams that once supported the ceiling are prominently displayed. Descending the stairs leads to an open kitchen, where wine cabinets, refrigerators containing dry-aged meats, and shelves stocked with cookbooks from various eras are showcased – most of them dedicated to Polish cuisine. Kitchen and Chef Epoka’s cuisine is fine dining rooted in Polish classics. Executive Chef Marcin Przybysz offers guests two tasting menus – “A Short History” and “History”. In doing so, he takes them on a culinary journey through time, showcasing the traditions and cross-cultural influences that have shaped our cuisine. His mission is to revive the memory of old Polish banquets, dishes from noble estates, as well as simple folk recipes. He draws inspiration from historical notes and vintage cookbooks, resulting in original and modern reconstructions of past flavors. The menu becomes a narrative about the richness and diversity of Polish cuisine, which lost its charm and appeal during the PRL era. Service and Occasions The foundation of the dishes lies in fresh, local, meticulously selected ingredients, utilized to the fullest extent possible in line with the zero-waste philosophy. The menu features, among other things, exquisite Polish crayfish prepared in various ways, native truffles enclosed in a melt-in-the-mouth doughnut, and many other impressive dishes. A wonderful complement to this culinary experience is either a wine pairing or a non-alcoholic pairing (signature cocktails, sparkling teas) – both curated by the restaurant’s sommelier team.
Location
Facebook
Instagram