Przychodnia Towarzyska
I think this would have to be my favourite bar in Krakow. I have been on two separate trips now. Just a couple of doors down on the left from the Florian Gate, opposite the Fashion Cafe, a short covered alleyway leads to the stairs down to this bar. The way is marked by a blue neon cross, imitating the green crosses that signify hospitals. And no wonder. The name "Przychodnia Towarzyska" (don't even try to pronounce it; I gave up after 20 minutes) means "Social Clinic."
The bar is underground, a complex of linked arched brick-work cellars. So far, normal for Krakow—every other bar and club would fit that description. The bar is packed, full of the trendy youth of Krakow. There's not really enough space, so the dancers progress upwards—from dancing on the floor they move to dancing on chairs; from dancing on chairs they progress to dancing on tables; from the tables they clamber up and dance on the bar top—thirsty drinkers have to reach through a swaying, stamping forest of legs to get served. Needless to say girls, avoid short skirts here!
There is such an infectious, good-natured vibe here that I challenge even the most self-conscious visitor to resist their hidden inner impulses. Having always been told (if not in as many words) that dancing on the furniture is wrong, here you find yourself seizing the opportunity with joyous glee.
The drinks are fine and not too expensive. They do seem to have a predilection for using Advocaat in cocktails though. I'd recommend sticking to the Hot Highways: passoa, gin, and orange juice. It does begin to wind down a little by about 4am. The it's time to hit a proper club!
From journal The Stags of Krakow