Drinking is part of the Polish culture, so if you're in Poland, you must learn the Polish toasting customs. Learn how to say cheers in Polish and explore 10 traditional Polish drinks you can toast with.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
The Drinking Culture in Poland
10 Traditional Alcoholic Drinks in Poland
Wódka
Żubrówka
Żołądkowa gorzka
Krupnik
Nalewka
Piwo
Piwo z sokiem malinowym
Miód pitny
Grzane piwo
Grzane wino
6 Ways to Say Cheers in Polish
Na zdrowie
Sto lat
Do dna
Na drugą nogę!
Za nas!
Za tych, co nie mogą!
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in Polish culture, understanding how to say cheers is a great place to start! In Poland, drinking is more than just a social activity–it’s an integral part of gatherings, celebrations, and traditions. Whether you're raising a glass at a wedding, a casual get-together, or a family dinner, knowing how to say cheers in Polish will enhance your experience and connect you with the locals.
So, what is cheers in Polish?
In this article, I'll share with you the various phrases used to toast, as well as some traditional drinks that accompany these expressions. Ready to explore how to say cheers in Polish and join its drinking culture?
The Drinking Culture in Poland
Is it common to drink in Poland? Yes, it absolutely is! Polish people embrace social drinking as a way to bond and celebrate. Whether at family gatherings, weddings, or casual get-togethers, you’ll find drinks flowing freely, often accompanied by hearty food like pierogi, kielbasa, and bigos.
Vodka is our drink of choice, typically served ice-cold in small shot glasses, while beer is equally popular, with many local breweries producing a variety of styles. You'll find many different brands of beer in Poland to choose from. So, learning how to say cheers in Polish is something you definitely must do before you start sharing drinks with Polish people!
With that said...
10 Traditional Alcoholic Drinks in Poland
Here’s a look at ten classic drinks that you’ll encounter during your time in Poland. Each of these drinks has its own unique character and is often enjoyed in social settings, making them a must-try!
Wódka
Image source: Unsplash
No discussion about Polish drinks would be complete without vodka. Known for its purity and strong kick, Polish vodka is often served chilled in small shot glasses. It’s the drink of choice for toasting and celebrating, and you'll find many variations, from plain to flavored options.
Żubrówka
Image source: https://www.speakeasybkk.com/blogs/news/zubrowka-bison-grass-vodka-the-spirit-of-the-bison-forest
This iconic bison grass vodka is infused with the aromatic herb Hierochloe odorata. Known for its distinct taste and slightly sweet flavor, Żubrówka is typically enjoyed chilled and can be mixed with apple juice for a refreshing cocktail. The unique green label adorned with a bison makes it easy to spot!
Żołądkowa gorzka
A herbal bitters that is often served as an aperitif, Żołądkowa gorzka is known for its digestive properties. This liqueur combines a variety of herbs and spices, resulting in a complex flavor profile that can range from sweet to bitter. It's commonly sipped straight or used in cocktails.
Krupnik
This honey-spiced liqueur is a delightful treat, especially during colder months. Krupnik is made with a blend of honey, spices, and alcohol, resulting in a sweet, warming drink. It's typically enjoyed warm, making it a popular choice for cozy gatherings.
Nalewka
Image source: https://cookidoo.com.cn/recipes/recipe/en-CN/r244092
Nalewka refers to a traditional homemade fruit or herbal liqueur. Made by infusing fruits or herbs in alcohol, nalewka comes in a variety of flavors, from cherry and raspberry to herbal mixes. Each household often has its own family recipe, making it a beloved staple during celebrations and family gatherings.
Piwo
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Polish beer is a major part of the drinking culture, with local breweries offering a wide range of styles. From pale lagers to rich stouts, beer is enjoyed in social settings, often paired with hearty snacks. Some popular brands include:
Żywiec: A classic lager known for its crisp taste.
Tyskie: Offers a well-balanced and smooth flavor.
Okocim: Celebrated for its light lagers and rich dark beers.
Książęce: Features craft beers with traditional recipes.
Lech: A staple pale lager at many gatherings.
With such a diverse selection, there's a beer for every occasion!
Piwo z sokiem malinowym
Image source: https://fi.pinterest.com/pin/417920040398331542/
Piwo z sokiem malinowym (beer with raspberry juice) is a delightful Polish beverage that combines the refreshing taste of beer with the sweetness of raspberries. This popular drink is especially enjoyed during the summer months when fresh raspberries are in season.
To prepare it, simply mix a light lager or wheat beer with a splash of raspberry juice or syrup. The result is a fruity and effervescent drink that’s perfect for warm-weather gatherings, barbecues, or picnics. This combination is a must-try for anyone looking to experience a fun twist on beer.
Miód pitny
This honey mead is a traditional Polish drink that has been enjoyed for centuries. It’s made by fermenting honey with water and sometimes adding spices or fruits for flavor. Miód pitny comes in various sweetness levels, making it a versatile option for different palates.
Grzane piwo
Image source: https://drinkownia.pl/grzane-piwo-z-sokiem-wisniowym-duch-tradycji-spod-strzechy-1702858606
Polish mulled beer is a warm and comforting drink, perfect for chilly evenings. Grzane piwo, or grzaniec, is typically made by heating beer with spices such as cinnamon and cloves, and it’s often sweetened with honey or sugar. It’s a unique twist on traditional mulled wine and is great for warming up after a long day.
Grzane wino
Image source: https://www.newsweek.pl/trendy-i-inspiracje/przepis-na-grzane-wino-magdy-gessler-grzaniec-na-zime/fxzrc70
Similar to grzane piwo, grzane wino is mulled wine infused with spices and citrus. This cozy drink is a favorite during winter holidays and festive gatherings. It’s usually served warm and can be made with red or white wine, offering a sweet and aromatic experience.
6 Ways to Say Cheers in Polish
Now that you know your choice of alcoholic drinks in Poland, it's time to learn how to say cheers in Polish. When it comes to toasting in Poland, the phrases are as rich and varied as the drinks themselves.
Here are six popular ways to say cheers, each with its own unique context. Whether you’re clinking glasses with friends or raising a toast at a celebration, these phrases will help you join in the fun!
Na zdrowie
The phrase "na zdrowie" is more than just a way to raise your glass. It's a wish for good health and well-being, similar to saying "salud" in Spanish or "prost" in German. In Poland, health is highly valued, and it’s customary to wish others good health when drinking together, so "na zdrowie" is the most common way to toast.
Sto lat
This phrase translates to "a hundred years" and is often used during birthdays and significant celebrations. It’s a heartfelt wish for a long, happy life. When someone raises their glass and says "sto lat," everyone joins in to toast to the honoree, making it a perfect addition to any festive occasion.
Do dna
Meaning "bottoms up," this toast encourages everyone to finish their drink in one go. It’s often used during rounds of vodka shots or when celebrating something special. So, when you hear "do dna," get ready to raise your glass and enjoy every last drop!
Na drugą nogę!
Translating to "for the other leg," this toast is typically said when it's time for a second round of drinks. It’s a light-hearted way to keep the good times rolling and enjoy another drink together.
Za nas!
This phrase means "to us!" and is a simple yet meaningful way to celebrate friendship and togetherness. It’s perfect for any gathering, whether you’re with family or friends. When you raise your glass and say "za nas," you’re toasting to the bonds that bring you together.
Za tych, co nie mogą!
Translating to "for those who cannot," this toast is a respectful way to remember loved ones or friends who aren’t able to join in the drinking festivities. It’s often said in a heartfelt manner, emphasizing the importance of inclusion and connection, even when someone is absent.
Na zdrowie!
In conclusion, knowing how to say cheers in Polish can really enhance your experience of the country’s lively drinking culture. Whether you raise your glass with "na zdrowie" or celebrate with "sto lat," each toast adds to the fun and connection with those around you. So, the next time you’re at a gathering or enjoying a drink, use these phrases and embrace the joy of Polish traditions.
Remember, learning how to say cheers in Polish isn't just about the words–it’s all about sharing good times with great friends. So... Na zdrowie!
If you'd like to learn more about the Polish language and culture, be sure to check out the other articles on this blog–like this one with 15 different ways to say hello in Polish. And follow me on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, where I post (almost) daily videos teaching Polish in under 1 minute.
