59+ Of The Best Restaurants In Croatia: Where To Eat In Croatia

Food, glorious food! Here are the best restaurants in Croatia. This list is written by locals living in Croatia, and it makes choosing where to eat in Croatia easy!

 

Food, glorious food! If you have been reading our blog for a while, you’ll already know how much we love food. We have a stack of Croatian recipes in English, and one of our most popular posts is this one on traditional Croatian food.

If you’re heading to our sunny shores and are looking for the best spot to chow down, and you’re looking for recommendations, you’ve come to the right place!

We’ve broken down our list into the absolute best restaurants in the entire country, followed by our tops picks in each region. 

Best Country-Wide Restaurants In Croatia

In no particular order, these places regularly win awards and are favored by us and or our friends and colleagues. 

1. NAV, Zagreb

If you’re looking for an amazing restaurant experience in Zagreb, Croatia, you’ll definitely want to check out Nav! This cozy little spot is located in the heart of the city and offers a truly unique dining experience. The menu features traditional Croatian dishes with a modern twist, and the decor is absolutely beautiful. Trust us; Nav is definitely worth a visit!

The renowned Croatian chef Tvrtko Šakota opened NAV to cook precisely as he envisioned. This restaurant, situated at 11 Masarykova Street in a courtyard, provides guests with an extraordinary gastronomic experience. On the entrance is a sign reading ‘modern Croatian cuisine’ – and this exquisite theme pervades throughout the homey interior, making the eatery feel like dining in someone’s home.

Chef Šakota stands out with his unique approach to each diner, during which he narrates the creation of each course in-depth: detailing its preparation and highlighting that all ingredients are locally sourced, many from his own biodynamic farm. Only fifteen people can be served per evening, ensuring outstanding quality as you enjoy a four-hour-long 16-course dinner, where every dish is worth savoring.

2. Dubravkin Put, Zagreb

Located in the woods, a short walk from Zagreb, you’ll find Dubravkin Put. Voted number 2 in Croatia, it’s here that you will find stylish and sophisticated Mediterranean cuisine served to you in style. The restaurant has one of Croatia’s largest wine lists, with many of those by the glass making your experience at this restaurant even better.

3. Noel, Zagreb

Another establishment that made the country-wide list, this is a top choice for steak lovers. Additionally, the menu is continuously evolving and changing, incorporating the freshest seasonal ingredients.

This chic restaurant will impress you upon entry with its warm and sophisticated décor. The chef employs modern cooking techniques extracting every ounce of flavor from local ingredients. Go for the tasting menu for the best gastronomic experience.

It’s also worth noting they have an extensive wine list.

4. Vinodol, Zagreb

A popular Zagreb restaurant, Vinodol serves tasty traditional continental and Mediterranean cuisine. The restaurant is somewhat casual, meaning it’s perfect for a family meal, a romantic dinner for two, or a business meeting. The menu is large, and the wine list is equally as extensive!

This is one that truffle lovers should definitely consider visiting! Another of our favorite dishes on the menu – the fish and chips. It might sound simple, but try them and let your mouth water with the freshly caught fish and homemade chips and dip.

5. Otto & Frank, Zagreb

Serving modern comfort food that blends contemporary culinary trends and local home-cooking traditions, Zagreb’s Otto & Frank is one of the best restaurants for a casual breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Located in the Zagreb city center, this bar and bistro focus on seasonal food. Its main menu is complemented by about half a dozen different dishes inspired by the local market’s offerings.

6. Carpaccio, Zagreb

If you’re looking for Italian in Zagreb, look no further than Carpaccio. With a wide range of classic Italian dishes, there is something here for everyone. The tagliatelle with shrimps is a house favorite, while the extensive wine list is always a winner.

7. Nautika, Dubrovnik

Nautika is a restaurant that gives you several experiences all rolled into one. First, you get stunning views, as it’s located right at the western entrance to the famous Old City.

The terraces mean amazing sunset views and photo opportunities too. Secondly, this restaurant offers cooking classes you can pre-book in advance. But of course, it also offers amazing food that will make your mouth water.

The restaurant specializes in seasonal, local ingredients, including seafood caught fresh from the Adriatic. Be sure to try their lobster if you’re feeling fancy! Nautika has also won several awards over the years, which should give you an idea of its quality.

8. Panorama, Dubrovnik

If an amazing meal with a view is what you’re after, Panorama is for you. Located on Mount Srd, you’ll have the very best view across the entire city and further afield. If you want to eat at sunset, you’ll have to book a table far ahead of time, but it’s more than worth the effort.

The hotel is open for lunch and dinner, with an extensive cocktail and wine menu for you to choose from. Again, this hotel specializes in the freshest ingredients that change seasonally.

Even if you’re not the biggest fan of cable cars, this is one restaurant you need to push aside your fears for!

9. Draga di Lovrana, Lovran

This restaurant is part of a large hotel and is located on the seashore, right at the edge of a huge reef. As you look around you, you’ll feel like you’re surrounded by endless blue, with an amazing photo opportunity in front of you. This is also a Michelin star restaurant, so you know from the get-go that it’s high quality.

Seafood here is as fresh as fresh can be, and the huge wine list pairs wonderfully with your dish of choice. While it might not be the cheapest restaurant you’ve ever been to, it will be one of the best.

10. Pelegrini, Šibenik

Three consecutive years in a row, Pelegrini has been crowned Croatia’s best restaurant, with the resident chef Rudolf Stefan also winning serval best chef awards. Put simply, Pelegrini is outstanding and at the cutting edge of Croatian cuisine. The food here will blow your mind and looks as good as it tastes. Be sure to book well in advance. The view of the UNESCO-listed cathedral is also a big seller.

11. Monte, Rovinj

Monte is the third-best restaurant in the whole of Croatia and the one and only Michelin-star restaurant in the country. It is certainly worth a visit when in Rovinj.

Here, you’ll experience delightful contemporary Croatian food. Go for the tasting menu and take in the full Monte experience. If that’s too much, be sure to try the suckling pig, which is to die for.

12. Bevanda, Opatija

Bevanda arguably has the best view of any restaurant in Croatia, located at the water’s edge in Opatija, and serves classic Croatian cuisine with a hint of modernity. Seafood dominates the menu, and it doesn’t get much better than this. Try the Kvarner scampi for a taste of the region.

This restaurant is relaxed but luxurious simultaneously, with a really chilled-out atmosphere. There are sunbeds on the restaurant’s exterior, and inside, you can simply sit and chill out, with great local food and a large drinks selection on offer.

13. Marina, Novigrad

If you are looking for seasonal, simple, but exquisite cuisine, this restaurant is a must. Specializing in seafood, the menu changes according to the catch of the day. The best way to experience Marina restaurant is going for the tasting menu option. 

14. Mala Hiža, Mačkovec

Located in the lovely Medumurje, Mala Hiža produces continental cuisine from the Medumurje region. The chef has partnered with local producers and creates modern takes on regional classics. The fine-dining choices are extensive and include authentic homemade dishes from the area.

This restaurant’s location is a fantastic plus point, set in its own gardens with a minor water feature and wooden bridge to complete the scene, making you feel a thousand miles away from any hustle and bustle. 

15. Plavi Podrum, Volosko

Plavi Podrum is an excellent example of great things coming in small packages. Located in the charming Volosko harbor, This restaurant offers superb seafood cuisine you won’t find anywhere else. The ingredients are ultra-fresh, with seafood caught daily a stone’s throw away.

The marina setting is really what sells it. Sitting and watching the sun glisten off the water, or viewing the sun go down with the boats in the background, is something to behold.

16. Konoba Boba, Murter

Located in Murter, on an island between Sibenik and Zadar, Konoba Boba is an award-winning restaurant that always belongs on overviews of the best Croatia restaurants. It’s a fantastic destination for veritable gourmands, people who high-end, well-thought-out dishes prepared in accordance with local traditions and the freshest ingredients. This is where you’ll find some of the absolute best Dalmatian food, from risotto and seafood spaghetti to local lamb and Adriatic tuna carpaccio, paired with delicious Dalmatian, Croatian and international wines.

17. ARTiČOK, Split

Split is home to many great restaurants, and ARTiČOK is definitely one of them. This is a perfect place for a cozy evening enjoying traditional homemade Croatian food. Its menu features all the Croatian classics, from cheese board and tartar rump steak appetizers to pasta with truffle sauce, fish soups, tuna, lobster, and black risotto. While seafood and meat have a prominent place on their carte, the chefs can also prepare vegetarian and vegan dishes upon request. Gluten-free options are available, too!

18. Vidilica, Split

If you’re visiting Split and need a scenic place to eat, Vidilica is the spot. Located up at Marjan Hill, you’ll easily work off any calories before you eat, so you have space to fill up from the huge menu! Seasonal ingredients are high on the importance list at this restaurant, and be sure to try the delicious truffle pasta that is extremely popular.

With an amazing view, you’ll feel like you’re floating in the sky as you eat, but even if you don’t want to have a large meal, simply sitting here and enjoying the view with a glass of wine is an amazing experience.

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Best Restaurants In Central Croatia

19. Karlo, Plešivica

Located in the stunning Plešivica wine country with fantastic views over the vineyards, the food at Karlo is authentic, made with fresh local produce and meat.

20. Kod špilje, Otruševec

If you like large portions and want to try a large range of domestic food, this is your place! Here, you can try charcuterie, local soups, and game, along with a host of other options.

21. Restaurant Degenija, Plitvice Lakes

Located in the hotel of the same name, Restaurant Degenija is an excellent option when visiting the national park. Enjoy panoramic forested views as you eat from a varied menu of pastas, pizzas and Mediterranean cuisine. In the summer, traditional specialties of veal and potatoes “under the lid” and suckling pig can be enjoyed.

Best Restaurants In Dalmatia

22. Levanat, Dubrovnik

Dine with a sea view at Levanat, and if you’ve got more time to relax, head down to the beachfront afterwards. This restaurant specializes in Mediterranean cuisine with produce hand picked by the chef but also is a great place to just enjoy a drink or two. Be sure to try the fish carpaccio, Levant Risotto and the pancakes in wine mousse – all incredibly delicious!

23. Restaurant Dubrovnik, Dubrovnik

Found on an enchanting street corner, this Michelin guide restaurant is the perfect place for a romantic dinner. Using Croatian produce, the menu features flavorsome Mediterranean fare with a modern Dalmatian twist. Pick from the chef’s tasting menu for the evening, or order al-a-carte. Highlights include the sea bass, the lamb, and the specialty white fish baked in sea salt. An extensive wine list along with cocktails and beer will round out your meal. 

24. Buza Bar, Dubrovnik

Buza is the popular cliff-side bar through the hole in the Old Town walls. It is a popular spot for watching the sunset, swimming, and cliff jumping. They do not serve food or cocktails, but it’s an excellent spot for cold drinks, wine, or a cold beer while enjoying the seaside view.

25. Taj Mahal, Dubrovnik

Don’t be fooled by the name. This isn’t an Indian restaurant or a Croatian restaurant, either. Taj Mahal is known for having the best Bosnian cuisine in Dubrovnik, with two locations, one in the Old Town and one in Lapad. It’s an excellent place to try Bosnian dishes like kebabs, cevapi, Turkish coffee and desserts.

26. Azur, Dubrvonik

If you want to try something a little different, be sure to head to Azur. The chef was living in China when he decided to open his first restaurant, before heading back home to Croatia and continuing his legacy. As such, the menu is a mixture of Mediterranean dishes with a little Asian thrown in for good measures. 

27. Arsenal, Dubrovnik

Right on Dubrovnik’s main square, this charming restaurants serves up traditional Croatian cuisine, with a focus on local ingredients and seafood. An excellent selection of wine and stunning views from the terrace make this a memorable place to dine while in Dubrovnik.

28. Above 5, Dubrovnik

Located on the 5th floor of the Boutique Hotel Stari Grad, this rooftop restaurant offers a view of the city that is one of a kind! The Mediterranean menu offers three and 5-course dinners along with separate breakfast and lunch options that will leave your tastebuds more than happy.

29. 360, Dubrovnik

Located in the heart of the city, with a fantastic view of the Old Town, 360 is one of the top restaurants in Dubrovnik, the second-best actually! Famous for its black pork and its beetroot risotto, the menu is large and concentrates mainly on seasonal choices. Read more about Dubrovnik & food here, while you can find out where to sleep in Dubrovnik here.

30. Bowa, Sipan Island

A 30-minute boat ride from Dubrovnik will land you on the largest of the Elaphiti Islands, home to Bowa. This restaurant puts you right at the foot of the Adriatic, with cabana and seaside dining along a pebbled beach. Hidden in a tranquil little cove, guests rave about the unique dining experience and the incredible, Dubrovnik-style fare.

31. Boškinac, Novalja

This particular restaurant’s rural setting will really make you feel like you are in the heart of the beautiful Croatian countryside. If you can visit during the summer months, you’ll undoubtedly enjoy sitting on the terrace with a glass of wine before your meal! Be sure to try their outstanding red wine Boskinac. Please read our review here.

32. Leonis, Split

This gem is a great place for seafood. You can find it on the eastern edge of Old Town with a quiet, lovely dining terrace. It’s fine dining and great for a special meal, as the prices are on the more expensive side.

The shrimp scampi, fresh lobster and ink squid risotto all get great reviews, but you really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. There is also an excellent wine selection to pair with your meal.

33. Konoba Fetivi, Split

Known for its laid-back vibe and traditional, comfort food menu selection, this restaurant is a favorite of locals and tourists alike. It’s definitely one not to miss when in Split!

34. Lučica, Split

This gorgeous restaurant is reasonably priced with a great wine selection, located on the water, making it very romantic. If you want that real Split local feel, this is an excellent place to start, with fish, shrimp, mussels, lobster, and oysters, straight from the Adriatic. 

Cuttlefish and squid are the stars here, and the black color is thanks to the ink from the cuttlefish. MUST try! Another fantastic dish specific to Dalmatia is ‘Hobotnica ispod peke’ (octopus cooked under the bell) – if you would like to try this dish, call a couple of days in advance to make your booking and order this as they need a few hours to make it.

35. Chops Grill, Split

If you’re in the mood for meat, Chops Grill stands out. With prime meats from around the world alongside fish steaks, you’re carnivorous cravings will be satisfied. Paired with excellent cocktails and a seat in the dining room where you can watch the grill-master at work, it makes for an excellent night out.

36. Konoba Matoni, Split

Located right near the port, with both indoor and outdoor seating, this restaurant has a breezy vibe in the summer and a romantic charm in the winter. Featuring Dalmatian food, a rotating menu, and in-season ingredients, it’s truly a gem worth visiting. Don’t miss the massive bone-in steaks, sourced from local farms!

Kid and vegan menus are also on offer.

37. ŠUG, Split

For Mediterranean Dalmatian food with a modern twist, SUG is the place to be. Mostly frequented by the people of Split, it has become famous among foreign tourists too in the last few years. It’s convenient location in the heart of the city center makes it a great spot to end a day of sightseeing.

38. ZOI, Split

ZOI is a fine dining restaurant, with elegant ambience and an exclusive offer of food and drinks. ZOI has an extraordinary location, in the ramparts of Diocletian’s Palace, which is under UNESCO protection, with a beautiful spacious terrace overlooking the Riva (waterfront) and the port of Split.

Fusion cuisine with an emphasis on Mediterranean fill the menu with an excellent wine selection to accompany any dish.

39. Apolon, Stari Grad

As one of Croatia’s Michelin 2018 restaurants, this cozy dining experience on Hvar island is great for foodies. The restaurant is located in the Heritage Villa Apolon and offers fresh, flavorful Mediterranean cuisine made with local ingredients. 

40. Black Pepper, Hvar

Located in a picturesque alley in old town, you’ll find local food with a twist. This friends-owned restaurant flies in peppers from around the globe (specifically from places the owners have personally traveled to), in order to give Dalmatian cuisine exciting flavor combinations.

41. Fig Hvar, Hvar

Found down a little side street in downtown Hvar, Fig Hvar is a gem that offers a relaxed, unique dining atmosphere. Dishes are fresh, featuring locally grown produce and the cuisine itself is a creative fusion of food from around the world. 

42. Dalmatino, Hvar

Dalmatino, found in the bustle of town, was started in 1987 and has been serving up delicious, homemade cuisine ever since. The atmosphere here is relaxed and the menu is a mix of steakhouse classics and Mediterranean seafood. 

43. Restaurant No. 4, Sibenik

Tucked away in Sibenik’s Old Town, Restaurant No. 4 is the perfect place to unwind after sightseeing. Fish is on the menu here, with local ingredients, the fresh catch of the day and Dalmatian flair. You can also enjoy other meat specialties and pastas if fish isn’t your thing.

44. Lola Konoba & Bar, Vis Island

Set in the most funky, unique and picturesque garden, this restaurant offers a small menu of modern Mediterranean dishes that beautifully blends Spanish and Croatian cuisine.

45. Filippi, Korcula

This Michelin guide restaurant serves up delicious island food alongside incredible views of the Peljesac channel and Korcula archipelego. Artisan pastas and fresh herbs dominate the contemporary, healthy, Dalmatian focused menu. The tasting menu is an excellent way to enjoy all the flavors on offer.

46. LD Restaurant, Korcula

The head chef, Marko Gajski, is known for using local and seasonal ingredients, both above and below sea, to create modern Adriatic dishes. This is a restaurant where the tasting menu is highly recommended to truly get a taste of Korcula. 

Best Restaurants In Kvarner & Istria

47. Konoba Vrh, Buzet

The establishment boasts a rich menu and an exquisite atmosphere with a mix of local elements and a modern aura.

Truffle dishes are a must-try local delicacy made of the region’s signature Istrian truffles. Since Istria is the truffle capital of the world, you should expect to see many dishes with truffles in Croatia. At Konoba Vrh, you can try pasta with truffles made of local Croatian truffles and their homemade pasta.

48. Giannino, Rovinj

This restaurant was opened by the son of a local fisherman, so the menu focuses on food that captures the tastes of his childhood. Each morning, three local fisherman head out to sea, catching the fish served at Giannino. You can expect anything from lobster to sea bass. 

49. Snack Bar Rio, Rovinj

Snack Bar Rio has been a place for coffee and brunch since the 1960’s. The informal, cafe setting is deceiving, in that the food served is quite polished. From lobster to pasta, carpaccio to tartare, the modern Istrian cuisine is some of the best in the city.

50. Puntulina, Rovinj

Puntulina Restaurant & Wine Bar is a popular and well-rated eatery in the heart of the Old Town, located on the waterfront. Its kitchen is a mix of traditional Rovinj dishes and new culinary trends.

Run by a marathon runner, La Puntulina is the place to get seafood in all kinds of ways – try the seafood plate! You can enjoy your meal inside or on one of the small terraces overlooking the Adriatic Sea.

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Best Restaurants In Slavonia

51. Muzej Okusa, Osijek

While most restaurants in Slavonia are authentic in their décor, this restaurant is contemporary. The building is actually a museum that has been renovated. The restaurant’s menu is a mix of continental and coastal Croatian dishes, and they also have an extensive local wine list.

52. Baranjska Kuća, Karanac

Authenticity is the order of the day with this restaurant, where you can get a taste of Banaja county. Try the house-made bread baked in clay ovens, snails, and nettle dishes for something unique.

53. Zimska Luka, Osijek, Hotel Osijek

This restaurant is part of Hotel Osijek and overlooks the countryside and river that backs onto the hotel grounds. Steak is the order of the day here, as well as the lamb chops and veal.

Best Zagreb Restaurants

54. Ribice i Tri Točkice, Zagreb 

In translation: “Small fish and three small dots”, Ribice I Tri Tockice is a casual restaurant with a nice variety of seafood specialties prepared according to traditional recipes. Prices are fair and the location is central, making it a favorite.

55. Korcula Restaurant, Zagreb

This iconic fish restaurant with a long tradition is a must for seafood lovers visiting Zagreb. With a focus on local and seasonal ingredients, delicious and fresh Adriatic seafood plates are masterfully crafted.

56. Sopal, Zagreb

Sopal is a fun dining bistro and wine bar. The menu focuses on a blend of contemporary cuisine using micro-seasonal, local ingredients cooked over open flame. The wines featured are an excellent selection of natural, organic and biodynamic varieties.

57. Gostionica Ficlek, Zagreb

This is the first restaurant in the city to serve only authentic Zagreb fare prepared in traditional ways (think pasta with cabbage, Zagreb-style meat cuts, and soups cooked just like Croatian grandmas make them).

58. Purger

This simple restaurant has been around since 1932, and the food shows that history. Local favorites like sarma, grilled veal, mushrooom soup and crepes, just as you would expect your granny to make are on offer, along with many other affordable, authentic delights.

59. Didov San

The Gornji Grad location of this restaurant is an excellent place to enjoy a mixture of Bosnian-Herzegovinian and Mediterranean cuisine at prices that aren’t too expensive. Some traditional dishes include uštipak (fried dough), house-made prosciutto, and brudet stew (this one has a frog in it!). 

Now, what will you do with this list of the best restaurants in Croatia? Start at the top and work your way down or close your eyes and pick one at random? Either way, this list makes choosing where to eat in Croatia easy!