Gastro u Jakuba is the jedáleň near the Old Market, but there are more scattered across Bratislava. (source: restu.sk)
Dozens of people cue in a self-canteen, called a jedáleň in Slovak, to get a hearty, mostly meaty, dish at midday.
Comprised of a bowl of soup, a main dish and dessert, the jedáleň menu costs around €4. The concept dates back to socialism, its characteristic kitchen smell, floating across the dining space, transporting customers back to very different times.
In recent years, the jedáleň is enjoying a comeback. Many Slovaks eat lunch there every day, thanks in part to the meal voucher system.
What should you keep in mind upon entering a jedáleň? What meals do they serve? And where can you find some self-service canteens?
