Now that it is July and summer have most certainly arrived, it is irresistable to do as much as possible outside - and that includes eating. More and more of Bratislava's restaurants are finding ways to serve people their meals under the sun or stars. The capital's outdoor dining experiences can be broken down roughly into four categories, according to what they offer: scenic view, old town atmosphere, people-watching, or just a seat out of doors. Virtually none of our picks offer more than one of the first three.
1. U konzula- No place in Bratislava has gone further out of its way to emphasize a pleasant outdoor dining experience. U Konzula's wooden tables and benches sit in a pastoral rose garden surrounded on three sides by ivy-covered brick walls. The service is good and the Slovak fish, turkey and palacinky specialties are better, but it is the atmosphere that sets U Konzula above the rest. $$. CC: yes. Eng. menu: no. Res: yes. Palisády 40. % 533-4301. < 11:00-23:00, M-Su.
2. Korzo- Situated near the bank of the Danube, around the corner from St. Martin's cathedral on the edge of the old town, Korzo offers a rare combination of a historic setting the opportunity to watch passers-by. Venison and steak are recommended from the menu. Korzo is an excellent place for either a comfortable business lunch or dinner before or after the opera. $$$. CC: no. Eng. menu: yes. Res: no. Hviezdoslavovo námestie 11. % 334-974. < 9-23:00.
3. Prašná bašta- Sitting on Prašná Bašta's back patio, tucked away in an alley corner of the old town, one feels like a guest at a 19th century townhouse. Stained glass, tables tucked in nooks, and gothic, high-backed chairs give this restaurant an extraordinarily cozy feel. The food is tasty and cheap, mostly the basic Slovak menu with some twists, such as smoked trout and Armenian salad. Be prepared for a long evening - the service is friendly but slow. $$.CC: no. Eng. menu: yes. Res: yes. Zámočnícka 11. % 334-957. < 11:00-23:00, M-Su.
4. Spaghetti & Co. - Across from the opera house at the entrance of the revitalized korzo pedestrian strip, the outdoor tables at Spaghetti & Co. are extremely popular. The menu is extensive, offering dozens of choices. With any selection, you can count on quality and freshness. The spinach is out of this world. $$$. CC: yes. Eng. menu: yes. Res: yes. Gorkého 1. % 332-303.
