Dating back to 1895, Jama Michalika is one of Krakow’s oldest cafés. A favorite haunt of artists, bohemians, and academics before World War I, it later symbolized the birthplace of the Zielony Balonik (Green Balloon) cabaret and the Young Poland artistic movement. Visitors can enjoy traditional cuisine, art nouveau décor, and folk shows.
Jama Michalika is in the heart of Krakow’s historic Old Town, so travelers often visit on their own rather than on a guided tour. As it's typically open from morning until late evening, there are different menu options to suit the time of day. The venue is particularly popular for its evening folk shows. During these performances, you can watch folklore performers in regional costumes while savoring a traditional multi-course Polish meal.
The café has Wi-Fi available for customers.
The venue can accommodate parties and private events.
Due to its central location and popularity, it’s advisable to prebook a table for evening folk performances.
Be sure to take your time to admire the artwork, some of which dates back to the early 1900s and was gifted to the owner by local artists who regularly visited the venue.
Krakow is a great city to explore on foot, and given its central location in the historic center (at ul. Floriańska 45), Jama Michalika is within easy walking distance of the main market square. If you start at St. Mary's Basilica, wander down the historic Floriańska Street until you get to Jama Michalika.
It's best to visit Jama Michalika on a weekday afternoon, as it can get very crowded on weeknights and weekends. However, if you want to experience the full buzz of a live folk show, the evening is the best time to go.
Jama Michalika’s original owner, Jan Apolinary Michalik, founded the venue as a patisserie—and the café still takes great pride in its delicious homemade cakes. However, it has great menu options to suit whatever time of day you visit. Enjoy breakfast specialties such as sausages, eggs, and bread, or choose traditional Polish lunch and dinner dishes such as pierogi (stuffed dumplings), barszcz (beetroot soup), or honey-based alcoholic drinks.
