St. Martin’s Day, a tradition widely celebrated in the Czech Republic, is known for its signature dish – roast goose. But this year, fans of the tradition will need to dig deeper into their pockets. The price of geese from breeders has increased, with the cost per kilogram rising by several tens of crowns. This price increase is expected to be reflected in many restaurants’ menus. Despite this, the demand for this popular delicacy remains high.
According to Luboš Kastner, representing gastronomy in the Association of Small and Medium Enterprises, there are enough geese to fulfill the demand. Still, the price of dishes, especially in cities, has increased. He noted that reservations are being filled faster than last year, indicating that customers are still looking forward to the feast.
The price of goose in Kalhov, a family goose farm in Jihlava, has jumped from last year’s 295 CZK per kilogram to this year’s 320 CZK. If someone enjoys a goose thigh with red and white cabbage, potato dumplings, and Karlovy Vary dumplings at the farm restaurant, they will pay just under four hundred crowns for a portion.
In recent years, some farms have been afflicted with bird flu, which has also affected the supply and pricing. Despite this, interest in well-fed geese remains high, even though it’s not cheap. The small geese sale at these farms is around 250 CZK per kilogram, with the wholesale price significantly less.
The price difference in restaurants can be hundreds of crowns. Many Czechs opt for restaurants for the St. Martin’s Day feast, and some establishments are already preparing their menus. For example, the Ryžovna Brewery restaurant in Karlovy Vary will offer sixty to eighty servings.
Despite the rising costs, the tradition of St. Martin’s Day goose remains popular in the Czech Republic. Whether at home or in a restaurant, many are willing to pay a little more to partake in this delicious tradition.