Pomeranian Cuisine — Fish, Herring, and Golce

Pomeranian cuisine is the cuisine of a coastal region — based on Baltic fish, potatoes, and cabbage, with influences from Kashubian, Kociewie, and Żuławy cuisines. It is simple, hearty, but at the same time diverse — from fish specialties to thick soups.

1. Herring in Oil

A classic of Pomeranian cuisine. Marinated herring, served with onion, oil, and potatoes in their jackets. There are many variations — in sour cream, in vinegar, with mustard. The best in small fish shops and fish bars by the sea.

2. Smoked Fish

Smoked fish is the icon of the coast. Halibut, salmon, mackerel, eel — every fish smoked in a home smokehouse tastes different. It is served with bread, butter, and lemon. It is worth trying it in small smokehouses in Gdynia, Hel, Łeba.

3. Golce

The Kashubian version of Silesian dumplings — potato balls with flour, boiled in water. They are served with onion, lard, or mushroom sauce. Simple, filling, rural.

4. Fish Soup

A soup based on broth from Baltic fish, with vegetables, potatoes, and sour cream. It is served with croutons or bread. In the Pomeranian version — with dill and bay leaves.

5. Żuławy Bread

Dark sourdough bread with rye and wheat flour. Characteristic of Żuławy — a depression region east of Gdańsk. It is served with all dishes, especially with butter and local honey.

6. Kashubian Cabbage with Mushrooms

Braised cabbage with dried mushrooms, onion, and caraway. It is served with meats, especially game and roasts. Simple, deeply rooted in Kashubian tradition.

7. Fried Flounder

A flat Baltic fish, fried in a pan, served with fries, salad, and lemon. A classic of seaside fish shops. It is worth trying it in small fish shops in Sopot, Władysławowo, and Hel.

8. Szneki z Glancem

Sweet yeast buns with streusel and icing. Popular for breakfast and afternoon tea throughout the region. In the Pomeranian version — with raisins and orange peel.

Where to Eat?

In Gdańsk, it is worth visiting restaurants in the Old Town and in the Wrzeszcz district. In Gdynia — fish bars in the port. In Sopot — fish shops on Monciak. In smaller towns such as Hel, Łeba, Krynica Morska — local fish shops and smokehouses, where the fish is fresh and prices are lower.