Kavárna Slavia, Prague

Situated just opposite the National Theater, Kavárna Slavia offers magnificent views of the Vltava River and Prague Castle hovering in the distance. It has been the meeting place of writers, artists, actors and students. Smetana, Dvorak and Kafka were regulars during Hapsburg times as was President Vaclav Havel during his playwright days. Continental dishes and splendid desserts are served at reasonable prices. Czech wines are on offer, as is a shot of emerald magic (absinthe). Classic bistro chairs stand below clusters of over-sized, conical, milk-glass light fittings trimmed in nickel-plated brass.