The reservoir isn't what tourists imagine
When you say "Brno Reservoir", many people picture a lake, a beach and restaurants like on the Croatian coast. The reality is different – and in many ways better, once you know what to expect.
The reservoir is a narrow valley lake surrounded by forest. It isn't the sea or Lake Balaton. It's calm water between green hills, a short tram ride from the centre of Brno. And that's the magic – you're in the city, yet it feels like being at a country cottage.
Most visitors don't know that eating at the reservoir has its own history. Decades ago there were stands with sausages and beer. Restaurants came later, but quality varied. Things are better today – but it still pays to know where to go.
What to realistically expect from lunch at the reservoir
Let's be honest. Lunch at the reservoir isn't lunch in the centre of Brno. It has its own quirks, and it's good to know them in advance.
Summer is busy. Especially on Saturdays around noon the reservoir is full of families, cyclists and day-trippers. If you want to sit outside by the water without waiting, book a table. We take reservations for the terrace too.
Weekdays are calm. If you can come on a Wednesday or Thursday, there is plenty of space and you can enjoy lunch as if you had the whole harbour to yourself.
The weather decides. A terrace by the water is a luxury – but only when it isn't raining. To be safe, choose a restaurant that also has indoor seating with a view. We do – you sit inside, but the reservoir is still right outside the window.
How to get here
By tram: lines 1 and 3 to the Přístaviště stop. From there it's a few minutes' walk.
By bus: lines 54 and 303 stop at Přístaviště.
By car: you can park right in front of the restaurant. On summer weekends the car park fills up quickly; on weekdays there is plenty of space.
By bike: lock your bike to the rack in front of the restaurant and keep an eye on it from the terrace.
What to order on your first visit
If you don't know us yet and want a safe bet, have the salmon trout fillets baked in herb butter with mashed potatoes. Fresh fish, simple preparation, great flavour. If you don't eat fish, you'll find honest Czech cooking on the menu – goulash, meatloaf, duck or chicken steak.
With your meal, try a draught Pilsner Urquell or Velkopopovický Kozel; if you're driving, go for our homemade lemonade.
And don't forget dessert. The selection changes with the season – in autumn, for example, pumpkin gingerbread or apple and cranberry strudel; all year round, crêpes and soft-serve ice cream.
With children? No problem
The reservoir is a natural place for families. Children have plenty to watch – boats, ducks, water. On the terrace they can move around without disturbing others, and inside there is enough room for a pushchair.
We have children's dishes – chicken schnitzel or kids' svíčková, for example – and we're happy to adjust portions.
How much it costs
Soup, main course and dessert will cost roughly CZK 400–600 per person, depending on what you choose. You'll find current prices on the food and drinks menus on our website.
It isn't fast food, but it isn't fine dining either. It's an honest lunch made from fresh ingredients in a beautiful place. You get food, a view and peace – a combination you won't find in the centre of Brno.
The best time to visit
May to September, on a weekday, around one in the afternoon. That's the golden hour – sun, free tables, a warm terrace and calm. When it's sunny, you sit close to the water and watch the boats. If you come in January, you sit inside by the window and look out over the snowy reservoir – which has its own charm.
Whenever you come, book a table – especially at weekends. Just call 734 655 433 or use the reservation form on our website. It takes a minute and saves you waiting on the spot.