Krakow is full of surprises from its magnificent medieval Market Square in the Old Town to the Disney-esque Wawel Castle sitting majestically above it on Wawel Hill. An astounding ten million tourists visit the historic destination every year, a testament to its star power with travelers. From time to time one of those many visitors surely might think about staying there. We caught up with Max Dudhia, restaurateur and entrepreneur deluxe, who first came to Krakow in 1997, immediately fell in love with it, and decided to make it his home.
Meet Max
Max is the persona behind Piano Rouge, a cinematic restaurant with live music on the Main Market Square and Stalowe Magnolie, a trendy venue for live music, theme parties and events, voted one of the best clubs in Poland by Newsweek. At the end of 2018, a food concept was created for Stalowe Magnolie named Sticky Fingers @ Stalowe Magnolie. The menu offers the best grilled free-range chicken in town along with the longest pizza at one meter. That’s really all you need to bring in the masses and it does.
Krakow was voted the Capital of Gastronomic Culture for 2019 and the city invited both restaurants to partner in promoting a specially created menu to celebrate the international status and standing of Krakow on the gastronomy world stage.
Here Max gives us a little peek into his chosen city.
Max, tell us what inspires you in Krakow?
The magnificent vibe from the youth culture in the city which is a big university town. They have a great attitude and a positive approach to learning about their history and learning about foreign cultures.
What is your favorite activity?
I like spending time trying different restaurants and different cuisines. When I’m not eating, I like to hike in the Tatra mountains in Zakopane. I usually need it badly, lol!
What is your favorite monument?
The monument of famous Polish poet Adam Mickiewicz located in the Main Market Square. Aside from being a tribute to Poland’s literary talent, it’s a terrific meeting point.
Are there any FOODIE neighborhoods in Krakow?
There are restaurants all around the Main Market Square, as well as in Kazimierz, the Jewish district. In addition, open spaces close to the city center are being converted into foody neighborhoods with food trucks offering a variety of different cuisines (Indian, Mexican, Japanese, etc.) all situated in one place. The style is relaxed, and seating is usually on deck chairs or benches.
What is your favorite neighborhood in Krakow?
Besides the old town, I particularly like Park Jordan that is to the west of it. It’s large and there are numerous recreational activities for people to enjoy.
What is the best neighborhood for nightlife?
Without a doubt the Old Town with its many bars, cafés, clubs and restaurants is at the top of the list. It’s so easy to just walk from one to the other and there’s no need to use a taxi each time.
What is your “go to” restaurant? What’s your favorite dish there?
Besides my own restaurants, my favorite would be a restaurant called Aqua e Vino. The owner and his wife are Italian, and they make the dining experience a special treat. The Italian food is authentic and consistently good.
Where do you like to go on a Saturday night?
I like to spend time at Stalowe Magnolie, my live music club in the city center. It has a tradition going back 16 years and there’s always a fun crowd.
Are there any secret things you love to do in Krakow?
I like to go for a cigar at La Casa del Habana where they have a tasting lounge. It’s a little hideaway in the center of town and is a perfect escape. Plus, they have a great selection of whiskey, cognac and rum.
What can you find in Krakow that you can’t find anywhere else?
Aside from the beauty and historical aspect of our gorgeous city it has a charm that is unique. So much can be done within the Old Town in relative comfort and with little hassle. The energy and vibe are wonderful, and it seems to be non-stop.
What would constitute a “perfect” day for you in Krakow?
A perfect day would start with breakfast on the main square, followed by a walking tour of the Old Town. For lunch a nice meal close to Wawel Castle and then a walk along the river to the Jewish district Kazimierz for a quiet afternoon coffee in one of the antiquated gardens there. In the evening, a concert at the philharmonic followed by a romantic dinner with live music. If we have enough energy left, then after-party drinks and dancing to the wee hours of the morning.
What is your best memory of something that’s happened to you in Krakow?
When I first came here and did not know the language, I was buying some honey in the market (Kleparz) and the old man selling asked me for 2 zloty to make it easier for him to make change. A very old lady approached close to me and ever so slowly took out her coin purse and delicately removed a 2-zloty coin handing it to the seller and pointing to me. Of course, the seller explained to the lady that it was not necessary. It was a remarkable act of kindness to a stranger from another place.