golfkat Travel Blog

The most popular toast in Poland is na zdrowie, which is pronounced “nah zdrov-e-yay.” This saying literally means “to health” and is quite commonly used — if you’re drinking in a Polish bar, odds are you’ll hear someone say it eventually.

However, if you’re looking for more unique toasts, the Polish language has several longer ones you may like. For example, if you’re in the middle of a big party, you might say Człowiek nie wielbłąd, pić musi. This phrase is pronounced “Cho-vee-ek nye vee-l-blonde, peach moo-shi,” and it means “Man is not a camel, he must drink.”  Just hilarious!

If you prefer something a little, well, less colorful, you could always go with the classic za nas, which is pronounced “zah nass.” This means “to us” and is appropriate in just about any situation.  I like this one!  And it is easy to say.

Personally, these are just so amusing to me, but I can’t wait to try them!  I hope these can be used with beer, since I am not a big vodka drinker.  Here are a few more:

Literally meaning “One hundred years”, Sto Lat is an expression used at weddings and birthdays. It’s used in the Polish version of the Happy Birthday song, so it’s quite probable that you’ll hear someone singing it on a night out in the town.

And we like to drink!  Rybka lubi poplywac or “Fish like to swim” this seemingly eccentric saying is best explained by the stereotypical Polish love of herring. Alongside pickles, it is a traditional accompaniment to vodka. We heartily recommend enjoying some snacks when sampling the best of Polish vodka on a super tasty vodka tour.

Would be chevaliers amongst you might choose to raise your glass and declare “Za pięknie panie!” for beautiful women. Poland is by the way chock full of beautiful women. It’s cheesy as hell but what toast isn’t.

OK, I think it is time to start drinking so I can enjoy all of these unique phrases.  Maybe I can teach them a little kampai, or better, yet, Bonzai!!!!!