St. Martin's Day feast at The U Havlíčků!
Once again after a year we are organizing the St. Martin's Feast. Don't hesitate to reserve a table today! The event may be closed if supplies run out. We look forward to seeing you!
We start on November 9th and end on November 15th. We will also be open on Sundays from 11:30am-4pm. You can also look forward to the traditional offer of St. Martin's wines!
The tradition of serving a beautifully carved, golden-roasted St. Martin’s goose has deep roots in Czech and European culture, blending Christian legends with the natural rhythm of the agricultural year. The most famous legend takes us back to the 4th century to Saint Martin of Tours himself. When this humble Roman soldier was chosen to become a bishop, he wished to decline the high honor and hid in a goose barn. However, the geese betrayed his hiding place with their loud cackling, so he could not escape his destiny.
Another tale claims that the geese disturbed Martin during his sermon, earning them a place in the roasting pan as punishment. The practical reality of rural life, however, played an even bigger role. Saint Martin’s Day, celebrated on November 11th, traditionally marked the end of the farming year. During this time, farmhands received their wages, contracts ended, and new ones were negotiated for the upcoming season.
Geese reached their ideal weight just before winter, and since feeding them through the cold months would be expensive, feast celebrations were held. It was also the last opportunity to enjoy a rich meal and celebrate the harvest before the start of the 40-day Advent fast. On the traditional St. Martin’s feast table, the goose is accompanied by red and white cabbage, fluffy dumplings, and above all, the very first wines of the year—fresh St. Martin’s wines (Svatomartinské).
This legendary tradition continues to pair rich culinary heritage with the joy of gathering and celebrating abundance.