Despite the distractions of dachshunds in Kraków (how provincial) this weekend, it’s time to focus on the capital for an end-of-summer round-up of what’s new in Warsaw. The summer saw the opening of plenty of exciting new venues in Wawa, from beach bars to rooftop clubs. Our editor has the scoop on some of the stand-outs below; as always, follow the links to our website for more photos and further info.
1. Plac Zabaw Nad Wisłą
This is the new expansive riverside location of the city’s much-loved outdoor playground. There is over 2000 square metres of space, including an al fresco grassy theatre with ample lounging, which doubles as a concert venue, plus a gastronomic cube that features 3 bars and several food stations (Thaisty has a stand here!). They also have two purpose-built bike tracks (a pump track & mini velodrome!) and on the weekends there’s a must-visit eco food and design fair that sets up shop here. Come early and stay late, this place is just simply great.
2. The View Warsaw
Warsaw’s first hyper-posh rooftop nightspot is finally here, and it’s everything you imagine it to be and more. Once you clear the street-side queue (get there promptly at 22:00 or suffer the consequences), squeeze past the burly
bouncers and stroll the red carpet in the lobby before queuing for two elev
ators that whisk you up to the club in the clouds. The 360 degree bird’s eye views alone are worth the trip as you emerge right in the middle of Warsaw’s rapidly rising skyline. Take it all in with a bubbly cocktail in hand (bring your gold card), but if you want a seat make sure you reserve ahead of time (use your platinum card). Aside from A-list DJs and all-night parties, The View promises, above all, primo people-watching as the city’s glitterati, pseudo celebs and aging business tycoons and their Barbie doll arm-candy all crowd around the iconic circular bar. THE place to see and be seen in Warsaw.
3. ISKRA Pole Mokotowskie
On the outskirts of the largest park in Mokotów, next to the somewhat disused and decrepit SKRA stadium, you’ll find the food and party oasis known as Iskra. If you approach the garden in the warmer months you’ll be greeted by a sea of people chilling on beach loungers, hanging on hammocks or cooling off in the pool! Grab a burger or fresh fish dish from the grill to go with your beverage of choice and beat the heat in style. When the sun retreats head into the underground nightclub and get down to some of the 
best DJs in town that’ll keep the party going till the break of dawn, then you can resurface and collapse on their lawn. Essential!
4. THAISTY
As soon as you walk in the bustling crowds will greet you, as will a wall of savoury sweet and spicy aromas wafting from the open kitchen.Settle into a cosy booth, or if you’re flying solo grab a stool at the communal table in the middle. After pouring over the atypical menu we decided to go with a few recommendations (marked with arrows) from Thai head chef Chanunkan Duangkumma. The Peking bun was an absolute revelation as the delicate duck meat just melted in our mouths. We followed with the crispy oyster mushroom salad which was perhaps the most interesting textured and flavoured “Thai” dish we’ve ever tried. Thaisty is not only the real deal, it’s really a great deal (and a word to the wise, you can BYOB or BYOW until they get their liquor licence)!
