Amongst the obvious Polish and Silesian influences that are mixed in with that of Greater Europe, you can find an extensive selection of cakes and desserts prepared on-site by pastry chefs. Guests with an especially demanding sweet tooth can also order a customised cakes. In addition to the restaurant proper, the front cafe is open from 08:00 and the bar stays open until midnight (except Sundays).
Located in the Hotel Diament Plaza Katowice at 9-11 Dworcowa Street, the buildings that house Kaktusy have a rich history. Dworcowa 9 started life as the Guild Hotel in the early 20th century, and was a German police station during the Silesian Uprisings in 1919-1920. Dworcowa 11 dates back to the second half of the 19th century and, in the interwar period, was a railway administration office and later a café and hotel.
After WWII, Dworcowa 9 opened up as 'Kaktusy' restaurant, characterised by the cacti flowers in the window which inspired its name. With the back half operating as a bookshop during the communist era, this hangout of bohemian wannabes, politicians and other dignitaries was regularly infiltrated by secret service agents on the prowl for local dissidents!
Dworcowa 11 was less fortunate in its lifetime. Falling into disrepair, it was eventually demolished in 2009. However, the site would eventually be developed into today's Hotel Diament Plaza Katowice, a four-star accommodation option that is highly sought after by high-rollers passing through. The wonderful history of this venue can be viewed through historic photographs that hang in the restaurant's interior.
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