The story
Founded around 1920, Chaloupka delivers honest Czech cuisine at one of Ústí nad Labem's oldest hospitality venues, recently revitalized by the social enterprise Fokus Labe thirty-three years ago. This operation employs staff seeking stable employment, aligning culinary execution with a supportive social mission. The kitchen earned a Gault & Millau score of eleven in 2026, praised for transforming familiar dishes like baked pasta and langoš into sophisticated offerings while maintaining a warm, accessible atmosphere.
The kitchen sources pork from Přeštice and beef from Czech striped cattle, grounding the menu in local provenance before exploring international flavors. Balkan pork cutlets with ajvar feature prominently, alongside lasagne with beef ragout. Guests also order fish and chips accompanied by pea-mint purée or the Dutch cutlet glazed with rich gravy. Butter potato dumplings dusted with poppy seeds round out the options, offering a sweet finish to savory meals.
Dining extends into a garden shaded by century-old chestnut trees, recognized as the largest green space for guests in Ústí nad Labem. The interior bar pours four drafts featuring Plzeň and Falkenštejn, complemented by a selection of craft specials. The wine list prioritizes narratives from small producers like Krásná Hora and Milan Nestarec, pairing seamlessly with house-baked sourdough and seasonal soups crafted daily.
Recognition
Ambience
Location