The Czech Republic’s cherished tradition of celebrating St. Martin’s Day with a sumptuous roast goose is facing a price surge this year, making the delectable feast a bit more expensive for enthusiasts. The cost of geese from breeders has seen a notable increase, with the price per kilogram rising by several tens of Czech crowns. This hike is anticipated to be reflected in many restaurant menus, potentially making the traditional feast a bit costlier.

Luboš Kastner, representing gastronomy in the Association of Small and Medium Enterprises, assured that there is an ample supply of geese to meet the demand. However, the price of dishes, particularly in urban areas, has seen an uptick. He further noted that reservations for St. Martin’s Day feasts are being booked at a faster pace than in previous years, indicating the enduring popularity of the tradition.

The price of geese at Kalhov, a family-run goose farm in Jihlava, has risen from last year’s 295 Czech crowns per kilogram to 320 Czech crowns this year. For those seeking a hearty meal of roast goose thigh accompanied by red and white cabbage, potato dumplings, and Karlovy Vary dumplings at the farm’s restaurant, the price per portion comes to just under four hundred crowns.

Recent years have seen some farms grappling with bird flu outbreaks, which have affected both the supply and pricing of geese. Nevertheless, the demand for well-fed geese remains strong, even though they come with a higher price tag. Small geese are typically sold at these farms for around 250 Czech crowns per kilogram, with wholesale prices being somewhat lower.

The price variation in restaurants can be substantial, potentially amounting to hundreds of crowns. Many Czechs opt for dining out at restaurants for the St. Martin’s Day celebration, and numerous establishments are already gearing up for the occasion. For example, the Ryžovna Brewery restaurant in Karlovy Vary is preparing to offer sixty to eighty servings of this traditional delicacy.

Despite the rising costs, the tradition of indulging in a St. Martin’s Day goose feast remains beloved and enduring in the Czech Republic. Whether enjoyed at home or in a restaurant, many are willing to pay a little more to partake in this delicious tradition that unites family and friends in celebration.

Article by Prague Forum