Světozor (Portal of Prague)

The cukrárna in Světozor arcade is famous for its fruit sorbet ice-cream, for which people queue up in both summer and winter. Its location, directly opposite the cinema of the same name, is more than strategic, as proven by the enthusiastic appreciation of many generations. The older of these remember a time when such a fruit cukrárna was unique in Prague, younger ones now go not only to Vodičková near Václavské Náměstí, but also to Chodov or Karlín, or perhaps to Čestlice.

The cukrárna tradition dates back to the mid 70s. Of course, in those days it existed under the name “Ovocné lahůdky Světozor” (Fruit Delicacies). The arcade in which it is situated passes through what was originally the Czech National Bank Palace, built in 1916 to a design by Osvald Polívka. It grew on a site where houses had stood since the middle-ages. From the passage, walking through open spaces, you can reach Františkánská zahrada (Franciscan Garden) or turn into another connecting arcade at Alfa Palace. The entrance to Semafor Theatre was once on this bend, discos were held in Alfa. None of this now exists. Both arcades house shops and services, with only the garden preserved after reconstruction.

The appearance of the cukrárna has also changed considerably – the colour of the interior, originally red, has changed to cooler colours, dominated by green and white. The seats are red, as well as some light fittings, complemented by other blue shades. This quite pleasant, youth oriented interior enlivens and optically enlarges an otherwise small area which simply can’t cope with the great number of sweet-toothed customers. The cukrárna has responded to demand at least in placing several tables outside, in front of the shop-window. Five other “sister” establishments in Prague have very different interiors. In Prague 4 it is a modern red and orange combination, in Čestlice visitors will feel like they are in the zoo, while the atmosphere in Karlín, probably because of its proximity to the bus station, is reminiscent of Old London, with red double-deckers and phone boxes. A short distance from Poříč, yellow disappears into the surface of the sea and the Chodov cukrárna is coloured red to match its mosaic floor. What remains unchanged, however, is the quality of the excellent fruit sorbet, real cream on the home-made cakes and crunchy pastry, or the delicatessen range which is always fresh.