Puławska 113A
(Królikarnia)
Occupying a pair of side rooms within the sand-coloured Królikarnia Palace, Pląs introduces itself in a burst of parquet flooring and muted beige shades. There’s two rooms to speak of, and both impress with their tall windows and high ceilings. Decorated with vintage drawers and retro chairs, these 60s treasures are offset against a statement chandelier and funky neon in the main chamber, and a striking contemporary canvas in the side room. An engaging mix of old and new, its easy on the eye and demands to be Instagrammed.
Perhaps less extroverted than previous winners in this category, it’s this ‘less is more’ approach that has proved so effective. Resisting the urge to go crazy, the design instead enhances what’s already there whilst also naturally following the philosophy of the café. Working hand-in-hand with the artsy-cool vibe, it’s all rounded out nicely by the strategically placed plants, chillout beats and rare-find art books placed reverentially on the shelves. It looks and feels perfect.
Koszykowa 49A
Swathed in white-on-white colours, The Eatery feels almost holistic in its vibe. With the blinds drawn down – even in daytime – you’re left to bask in an atmosphere that feels blissfully cocooned from the outside world. Decorated with orb-like installations and splashes of dappled granite surfaces, it looks chic and elegant yet also casual and welcoming. What could easily have become a sterile, laboratory-style space feels anything but.
Kurcza 16/22
A celebration of 80s era NYC – think Studio 54 or The Deuce season three – Grace celebrates the glam excess of the era in striking style. Designed by Kinga Mostowik, this on-trend cocktail spot divides itself into three – a main room bathed in rich bordello style colours and velvety finishes and a side room that’s high on plush purple, glass and mirrors. Finally, there’s an all weather conservatory with Italian olive trees and dramatic drapes.
