20 minute read

Restaurants

Advertisement

A D R I A T I C F O O D C O R N E R

L I D O B E A C H B A R - H O T E L V I S

BiSTRO TAVuLin With tables spread across the alleyway just behind the Church of St Blaise, Tavulin offers a quality mixture of traditional and creative cuisine at prices which won’t have you rushing for the cash machine. Homemade agnolotti filled with adriatic shrimps is something of a signature dish and reveals a lot about what Tavulin is trying to do – dig some good ideas out of the old recipe books and present them in a fresh contemporary way. Fresh fish and slow cooked veal are among the other regular stand-outs, and inexpensive daily specials are chalked up on the blackboard.QC‑3, Cvijete Zuzorić 1, tel. (+385‑20) 32 39 77, www.tavulin.com. Open 09:00‑22:00. (80‑160kn). PGBJ6 DALMATinO DuBROVnik After several years building up a reputation in the alleys south of Stradun Dalmatino has moved uphill to Prijeko, where it now has dining rooms on either side of the street. The recipe for success remains the same, with Dalmatian classics served up with a touch of modern European flair, with a few international dishes thrown in to keep the more unadventurous tourists happy. One local speciality that you should try is žrnovski makaruli, the tubular pasta from Korčula which is here served with a choice of beef, shrimp or truffles.QC‑3, Prijeko 15, tel. (+385‑20) 32 30 70/(+385‑) 098 32 74 04, www. dalmatino‑dubrovnik.com. Open 08:00‑23:00. (90‑ 220kn). APGTUBJ6 kAMEniCE Kamenice has legions of fans around the world for its huge portions of tasty seafood and cheap, cheap prices. It’s a simple place on the market square, near the statue of Mr Gundulić.QC‑3, Gundulićeva poljana 8, tel. (+385‑20) 32 36 82. Open 08:00‑23:00. (80‑140kn). AUBJ kOnOBA JEzuiTE With outdoor seating under the trees opposite the Jesuit Church, Jezuite offers a tradition-meets-creativity approach to food that will suit the light eater and slap-up diner alike. The mains revolve around tried-and-tested fish, chicken and steak options (they will throw game onto the menu when they get it fresh) but are all presented with a bit of imagination, with a lot of attention devoted to getting the right blend of sauces and spices. Given some seriously ambitious desserts, this is a good place to push the boat out. QC‑4, Poljana Ruđera Boškovića 5, tel. (+385‑20) 30 10 14, www.jezuite.com. Open 09:00‑ 23:00. (100‑200kn). APGTBJ LEVAnAT This slightly isolated place can be reached at the end of a beautiful walk along the coast, or by car if you are so inclined to ignore the scenery. The menu here is heavily focused on Dalmatian fish dishes and some of their specialities are actually made from scratch, meaning a potential wait of up to an hour. However the views from the terraced area are breathtaking and there is an attached café for those simply looking to kick back and relax. QF‑2, Nika i Meda Pucića 15, tel. (+385‑20) 43 53 52/(+385‑) 098 995 71 78, www.restaurant‑levanat.com. Open 08:00‑24:00. (250‑300kn). APGUB

D A L M ATIA N FL AVOU R S W I TH A P E R S ONA L T OU C H

R E S TAU R AN T TRAM U N TAN A

Nika i Meda Pucića 13 + 385 (0) 20 494 200 more@hotel-more.hr

www.restaurant-tramuntana.com

ORSAn The restaurant of Dubrovnik’s yacht club has a reputation as one of the evergreen reliable spots for good quality food. The emphasis is, appropriately enough, on seafood. Plenty of terrace seating overlooks the yachts and assorted marine traffic in the Gruž harbour.QH‑2, Ivana Zajca 2, tel. (+385‑20) 43 68 22, www.restaurant‑orsan‑dubrovnik.com. Open 08:00‑24:00. (80 ‑ 200kn). APGTB6 pupO Compact and bijou, this small tavern offers a variety of wellprepared seafood dishes and steaks as various pasta choices for a light lunch. Outdoor seating immersed in the Old city, local ingredients, wines and tempting homemade cakes make this value for money - worth visiting.QC‑2, Miha Pracata 8, tel. (+385‑20) 32 35 55, www.pupodubrovnik.com. Open 12:00‑22:00. (106‑250kn). AGTUBSJK TRAMunTAnA This trendy restaurant has a wonderful sea view, situated on the waterfront over in Babin Kuk. Situated well away from the insane crowds in the Old Town of Dubrovnik, here you can experience the sort of serene nature you might otherwise only see in the movies. Tramuntana is one of the best places on the peninsula to try any number of fish dishes and other traditional, expanded upon Dalmatian food such as veal medallions in truffle sauce and linguini with beefsteak and truffle sauce (they do like their truffles!). QNika i Meda Pucića 13, tel. (+ 385‑ 20) 49 42 00, www.restaurant‑tramuntana.com. Open 18:00‑ 23:00. (145 ‑ 220kn). AP facebook.com/DubrovnikInYourPocket

EthniC

ASiA Croatia’s tourist capital continues to see its culinary offer expand evermore. Already a fixture in the actual capital, Asia Restaurant can now be found in Dubrovnik. Situated on Mali Stradun, near the coastal walks of Babin Kuk, here you will experience all that Asia promises: flavour, the clarity of spice, and freshness. The menu is comprehensive and features several fixed options so that you needn’t spend an age choosing what to get. Absolutely perfect for dining right before taking a romantic stroll down to the park in Lapad.QF‑1, Mali Stradun bb, tel. (+385 ‑ 20) 20 61 17, www.asia‑dubrovnik.com.hr. Open 12:00‑23:00. (65‑165kn). N TAJ MAHAL Although the name might make you think of India this is actually Dubrovnik’s prime Bosnian restaurant, taking the hearty grilled meats for which the region is famed and turning them into quality sit-down cuisine. Traditional ground-meat fare such as ćevapi and pljeskavice are tangy and succulent; the DžingisKan mixed grill for two provides you with a platter of grill-kebabs and meaty chops that will tell you all you need to know about inland Balkan cooking. For something less carnivorous, try the flaky pastries filled with spinach or cheese. Recent renovations have totally transformed Taj’s interior, with Orientalstyle tiling, ceiling carving and wall-hangings turning this into a veritable palace of Bosnian delights. Also at Iva Vojnovića 14, hotel Lero. QNike Gučetića 2, tel. (+385‑20) 32 32 21/(+385‑) 098 983 26 20, www.tajmahal‑dubrovnik.com. Open 10:00‑ 24:00. (100‑350kn). APGTBS6 Summer 2022 13

intErnationaL

LuCin kAnTun Another place that gets its inspiration from old-style rustic cooking and contemporary global-fusion bistro food, Lucin Kantun limits itself to a small menu of seasonal goodies base on fresh ingredients, with fish, seafood and duck well represented. They also have a tapas-inspired approach which means that you can order several small plates of different things and all dip in. The place itself mirrors the approach to the food, with a chic modern interior juxtaposed with outdoor seating in a romantic stepped alley. QB‑2, Od Sigurate 4a, tel. (+385‑20) 32 10 03. Open 11:00‑22:00. (49 ‑ 220kn). APGTUBJ6 MORE Dubrovnik is more than just a tourist hotspot, it’s also a great place to find great food. Here you can enjoy a wide range of menus, from local to regional to international. Crawfish, salmon, all the way down to lamb, pork, veal, beefsteak! More has more of everything. The wine list is extensive, featuring many names you’ll already be familiar with. Pošip, Plavac, sourced from local vineyards with ever-growing reputation, and a dozen malvazijas and chardonnays that would take paragraphs alone. For dessert, the coconut mousse with white chocolate is well regarded by tourists and locals alike. QKardinala Stepinca 33, tel. (+385‑20) 49 42 00, www. restaurant‑more.com. Open 12:00‑23:00. (160 ‑ 280kn). AP pAnTARuL Located near a road junction in the residential part of Lapad this is a discreet and unassuming location for some of the best food on the Adriatic, combining old Dalmatian recipes and fresh local ingredients with a dash of experimentation and flair. The menu includes a lot of fish, lamb and duck, garnished with the kind of inventive barley, beans and sweet-sour fruit combinations for which Pantarul is increasingly known. Homely, informal and not wildly expensive, it’s understandably popular and you should always reserve. QH‑2, Kralja Tomislava 1, tel. (+385‑20) 33 34 86, www. pantarul.com. Open 12:00‑22:00; closed Mon. (92 ‑ 148kn). APGTSL

SYMBoL kEY

P Air conditioning A Credit cards accepted T Child-friendly U Facilities for the disabled B Outside seating L Guarded parking S Take away 6 Pet-friendly J Old town location pORAT RESTAuRAnT & BAR Slightly set back from the ferry port at Gruž, Porat serves a Mediterranean-slanted selection of pasta, seafood and game in suave, minimalist surroundings. When it comes to the fish the emphasis is on what’s fresh from the nearby market;although the accompanying sauces and spices may well bea lot more imaginative than what you get in a more traditional Dalmatian restaurant. Good wine list, and plate-splatteringly wonderful desserts.QH‑1, Obala Stjepana Radića 30, tel. (+385‑20) 33 35 52, www.porat‑dubrovnik.com. Open 07:30–22:30. (70 ‑ 150kn). APGTUBS6 STARA LOzA Situated at the heart of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, in a historical palace over half a century old, ‘’Stara Loza’’ offers daily fresh Mediterranean ingredients, combined into innovative, flavourful dishes. The restaurant’s vision is to provide you with the experience of excellent cuisine, enriched with a subtle, melancholic salute to Dubrovnik’s authentic and rich history. To compliment the Chef’s creations, their wine cellar offers the finest Croatian wines carefully selected by the restaurant’s skilled team. The interior is decorated with contemporary art making sure that all of your senses are pleased. The efforts of this young, talented team were recognised in 2017 by the esteemed Michelin guide, in which the restaurant is featured to this day. With its exquisite cuisine, unique rooftop terrace with breathtaking views, superb service and amazing architectural and visual appeal, ‘’Stara Loza’’ will definitely provide for an authentic, memorable Dubrovnik experience.QC‑2, Prijeko 22, tel. (+385‑20) 32 11 45, www.prijekopalace.com. Open 08:00‑22:30. (120 ‑ 210kn). APGBJ

MEditErranEan

ABOVE 5 RESTAuRAnT Elegant restaurant with a spectacular 360 degree view overlooking the ancient red roofs and stone streets of the Old City. Along with a captivating view, they offer delicious Mediterranean dishes made with a unique twist. Their wine list consists mainly of great local Croatian wines and they are constantly rotating their selections. Reservations are preferred to ensure a seat, as they fill up quickly and space is limited. 3 courses or 5 courses menus for lunch and dinner.QB‑2, Od Sigurate 4, tel. (+385‑20) 32 22 44, www.above5rooftop.com. Open 12:00‑23:00. (695 ‑ 1075 kn). ATBJ BAnJE BEACH RESTAuRAnT Running along the back of Banje Beach is a combined restaurant-lounge-club with seating set out on decking facing the shore. The menu is broadly international with plenty of lamb, steak and duck, although there’s a predominance of seafood with tuna steaks, prawns and squid setting the tone. It’s also a great place for evening cocktails; for wave-lapped proximity to the sea there is quite simply no equal.QL‑2, Frana Supila 11, tel. (+385‑) 099 3146 485, www.banjebeach.com. Open 12:00‑24:00. (65 ‑ 200kn). APGBJ

DuBRAVkA 1836 RESTAuRAnT & CAFé Located on Pile, this restaurant overlooks Lovrijenac Fortress and the Old City Walls. They offer delicious Mediterranean dishes in a romantic and peaceful setting. Their vast menu includes enough choices to suit everyone’s taste, such as a variety of pizzas, risottos and pastas, fish dishes, such as Grilled Squid or Salmon Fillet and meat dishes, such as Dalmatia Style Steak or Lamb Fillet. As an additional bonus, if you’re a Game of Thrones fan, this restaurant overlooks one of the scenes from the show.QA‑2, Brsalje 1, tel. (+385‑20) 42 63 19, www. nautikarestaurants.com. Open 08:00‑24:00. (100 ‑ 224kn). APGUB FiSH RESTAuRAnT pROTO Proto has a hundred-year tradition and is the hallmark of Dubrovnik’s culinary scene. Top local chefs expertly blend old world charms with contemporary trends. The menu adapts to the availability of the best local produce and freshest fish; providing guests with only the finest Mediterranean cuisine. Proto is not just a holdover from a bygone era, it’s an integral part of Dubrovnik’s tourism renaissance.QC‑2, Široka 1, tel. (+385‑20) 32 32 34, www.esculaprestaurants.com. Open 12:00‑23:00. (200 ‑ 480kn). APGUB GRADSkA kAVAnA ARSEnAL In real-estate they say that location is important and this is smack bang off the harbour. Arsenal is open from breakfast through to dinner and lives up to its 1895 establishment – ‘classical and irresistible.’ The mains vary pending on produce but there’s always pasta, meats, shellfish and seafood of sorts. Whether you dine in or out, sip coffee or take a 3 course meal, Arsenal has the ammo for a perfect experience. QD‑3, Pred dvorom 1, tel. (+385‑20) 32 12 02, www.nautikarestaurants.com. Open 08:00‑23:00. (100 ‑ 224kn). APGBJ GuSTA ME Set on a raised terrace diagonally opposite the Ploče Gate, Gusta Me is a good place to work your way through the Adriatic Croatian repertoire of fish, squid and shellfish in a dining room that’s neat and modern rather than forcedly folkloric. The house speciality is grilled squid stuffed with ham and mozzarella; other tempting choices include sole stuffed with prawns, octopus ragout, and pašticada (beef cooked in plums and red wine). QE‑1, Ulica maestra Đela Jusića bb, tel. (+385‑20) 42 00 13, www.gustame‑dubrovnik. com. Open 08:30‑23:00. (70 ‑ 200kn). APGTUBS6 kAVAnA LAzARETi The quarantine complex of the Republic of Ragusa is the unlikely-sounding but impressive and atmospheric setting for this wonderful restaurant. Fabulous cocktails, inspirational cooking and excellent service have earned the Kavana rave reviews with guests. Put your trust in the friendly staff to recommend the best the menu has to offer: there’s something for everyone, and prices are very fair. QE‑2, Frana Supila 10, tel. (+385‑) 97 676 71 14, www.kavanalazareti.com. Open 08:00‑24:00. (100 ‑ 200kn). J nAuTikA The place to splash out in style – a wonderful terrace overlooking the bay by the Pile gate, and a rather grand interior - your smelly trainers may raise an eyebrow or two. Imaginative cuisine inspired by your maritime surroundings. Expensive, but definitely in a class of its own in Dubrovnik dining. 5-courses and 7-courses menus available.QA‑2, Brsalje 3, tel. (+385‑20) 44 25 26, www. nautikarestaurants.com. Open 18:00‑24:00. (360 ‑ 480kn). APGBJ pAnORAMA RESTAuRAnT & BAR Sited at the top station of the cable car and offering absolutely fabulous views of the city and the surrounding coast, you might be forgiven for thinking tat Panorama is a bit of a tourist trap. In fact it’s a more than respectable restaurant that maintains high standards of food and service and doesn’t leave you out of pocket. Fish and steaks top the menu price-wise but there are plenty of pasta, risotto and salad options for those who want a lighter bite. With cakes and cocktails too, it functions as café and bar as well as restaurant. Sunsets are highly popular; always make a reservation. QK,L‑1, Srđ Hill (upper station), tel. (+385‑20) 31 26 64/(+385‑) 091 486 00 47, www.nautikarestaurants.com. Open 09:00‑22:00. (100 ‑ 182kn). APGB pOkLiSAR The terrace right on the Ploče harbour waterfront is a popular spot to take the weight off and relax with a simple pasta dish or salad during a hard day’s sightseeing. Live piano-bar music in the evenings adds a touch of romance to the proceedings.QD‑2, Ribarnica 1, tel. (+385‑20) 32 21 76, www.poklisar.com. Open 09:00‑ 23:00. (98 ‑ 220kn). APGTUBEJ SESAME Dining at Sesame is a tale to be told, a 200 year old stone house surrounded by natures greenery and a mere 5 minute walk from the Old Town. The food is all sourced locally and the sous-vide method of preparing vegetables is used. They bake 3 types of homemade bread each day and the pastry chef makes fresh pasta daily. The menu consists of cold/hot appetizers to sensual mains; get a hold of slow-baked lamb with seasonal vegetables, beefsteak with truffles or the trio of lamb shoulder, loin and ribs with pea puree. The fish specialties include sea bass fillet with vanilla and fennel sauce, tuna tartar, confit and baked with seasonal vegetables, salmon fillet with lobster sauce and more. Choose from eating in or out on the terrace with a glass of wine or an in house dessert to top that main! QJ/K‑3, Dante Alighieri 2, tel. +(385‑20) 41 29 10, www.sesame.hr. Open 09:00‑23:00. (60‑200 kn). APTBSJ6 dubrovnik.inyourpocket.com

Pizza&PaSta

MEA CuLpA Tucked away in a quiet and peaceful old medieval alleyway just 100 metres away from Stradun, Mea Culpa is a great place for good pizza and cold refreshments after climbing the City Walls. Every dish here is prepared fresh to order using only the best ingredients. Talented pizza chefs are taught the traditional Roman methods of creating the perfect pizza and bake them in a special high tech pizza oven. Their menu ranges from traditional to unique pizza flavours, and includes a wide array of Italian dishes, lasagnes and a pasta selection that you’d find in top Italian restaurants.QB‑3, Za Rokom 3, tel. (+385‑20) 32 34 30, www.meaculpa‑pizzeria. com. Open 12:00‑23:00. (70 ‑ 262kn). APGBSJ pASTA LAB Feeling creative! Pastalicious is the key word here where hungry patrons get to pick and choose the fresh ingredients and sauce available which is then added to the chosen pasta and prepared in front of you. Quick, easy and tasty! Grilled chicken, sausage, shrimp, tuna, beef and more to choose from! If you like spicy, get the Arabiata sauce… Pizzas of all sizes are on the menu as well as something for our vegetarian lovers too. Located just off Stradun in the Old Town, its perfect for that stop off you need. QC‑2, Vetranićeva 2, tel. (+385‑20) 32 20 63, www.fastfood‑dubrovnik. com/pasta‑lab/. Open 10:00‑24:00. (38 ‑ 75 kn). APGTBSJ TABASCO The menu catches the eye, if only for the prices. It’s certainly cheaper than other similar establishments in the immediate area (Tabasco is just outside the walls, between the Ploče and Buža Gates). Here you can get takeaway, delivery, or simply eat in. The restaurant has a great shaded terrace, from which one can relax, and watch the tourists pass by in their hundreds. Both local and tourist opinion has it that this is the best pizza in all of Dubrovnik. The beer is also some of the cheapest in price.QE‑1, Hvarska 48a, tel. (+385‑20) 42 95 95, www.pizzeriatabasco.hr. Open 10:00‑24:00. (90 ‑ 99kn). APGTBSV

QuiCk EatS

BARBA Interested in tasting an octopus hamburger? Now is your chance! Barba offers delicious octopus hamburgers for a unique street food experience. As well, try some fried oysters, and tuna or shrimp burgers. A great spot for all seafood lovers to eat a quick bite on-the-go or to sit and relax on a cozy bar stool indoors.QC‑2, Boškovićeva 5, tel. (+385‑) 091 205 34 88. Open 11:00‑24:00. (39 ‑ 74kn). APGTSJ dubrovnik.inyourpocket.com

BiSTRO 49 This Bistro oozes street food for almost everyone’s taste… Open from breakfast to dinner, and open for a quick coffee through to a complete all out dinner, you can choose as you wish especially as its location is opposite the Gruž harbour, a major transit point. The menu personifies everything from seafood to grilled meats and burgers. Vegans and gluten free options exist too. The craft beers and local wines offer a typical Adriatic feel to your all round experience at Bistro 49. QObala Ivana Pavla II 49, tel. (+385‑20) 89 10 38, www.bistro49‑dubrovnik.com/. Open 08:00‑22:00; closed Sun. (56‑107kn). ABV BuRGER TiGER This American-style fast food joint is a unique addition to the Old Town Dubrovnik. They offer a variety of tasty hamburgers, hot dogs, tortillas and chicken wings, as well as yummy fries and onion rings. Sit back and relax in one of their bright red booths or take a seat in the narrow street between the cool stone walls. It’s the perfect spot for a quick meal while you’re seeing the sites or after a night out on the town when you get the munchies.QC‑2, Vetranićeva 4, tel. (+385‑20) 32 20 63, www.fastfood‑dubrovnik.com. Open 10:00‑ 02:00. (44‑85kn). APGTBSJ TuTTOBEnE pizzERiA & FAST FOOD Whether you are enjoying a family beach day, sunset on the promenade, coffee with a view or kids’ play time, count on needing a sumptuous meal at some point. Sea, sun, fresh air… translates to hungry, yes? And a relaxed day deserves some relaxed food! Grab one slice or sit down to share a pizza, at Tuttobene they promise to crown your Old Town or Uvala Lapad (Šetalište kralja Zvonimira bb, Open 12:00 - 23:00) time with some cool atmosphere and savory bites. QC‑3, Od Puča 7, tel. (+385‑20) 32 33 53, www.tuttobene‑dubrovnik. com. Open 11:00‑22:00. (30 ‑ 270kn). AUJ

VEgEtarian

niSHTA Jam packed into a street filled with restaurants is this small haven for non-meaty lovers. You’ll find a fusion vegan cuisine from all over the world. Choose from falafel, curry, soups, salad bar and much more. Enjoy the local wines, beers, and home-made juices that Nishta has to offer. A lot of thought has gone into the design of the toilets, so make sure you arrive with a full bladder otherwise you will miss out on the joke.QC‑2, Prijeko bb, tel. (+385‑20) 32 20 88, www.nishtarestaurant. com. Open 11:30‑22:00; closed Sun. (45 ‑ 120kn). AGBSJ

out of town Metković

ViLLA nERETVA A family run hotel offering photo safaris in the Neretva delta and local freshwater delicacies such as eel and frog. If your courage doesn’t extend that far, you can choose from a solid range of traditional meat dishes including Dalmatian pašticada – beef in sauce with prunes and gnocchi.QSplits‑ ka 14, Krvavac 2, Metković, tel. (+385‑20) 67 22 00/(+385‑) 098 36 17 00, www.hotel‑villa‑neretva.com. Open 09:00‑ 23:00. (50 ‑ 120kn). APGTBIESL6

MLini

MARinERO Nestled within the fine beaches of Župa Dubrovačka is a beacon of homemade and seasonal cuisine, with many of the ingredients coming from Marinero’s own garden. The view of the sea is breathtaking, accentuated by a peaceful breeze and some seriously delicious food. Be sure to leave room for dessert, many of which are based on grandma’s secret recipes. Add convivial service and Marinero is a konoba worth going out your way to visit.QŠetalište Marka

Marojice 16, Mlini, tel. (+385‑) 098 69 96 13/(+385‑) 098 165 54 54, www.marinero.hr. Open 17:00‑23:00. (90 ‑ 250kn).

AGBL6 20 Dubrovnik In Your Pocket

Ston

kApETAnOVA kućA Head chef Lidija Kralj is Croatian TV’s Delia Smith, and this restaurant has a countrywide reputation. It’s a crime not to try the fresh oysters from the Bay of Ston directly in front of the sheltered terrace.QMali Ston, Ston, tel. (+385‑20) 75 42 64, www.ostrea.hr. Open 11:00‑23:00. (100 ‑ 300kn). APGTBL ViLA kORunA The restaurant is known for its pristine oysters, local olives, cheese, hams and sensual wines. On offer are also rooms and suites that have been refurbished with state of the art features. The surroundings are lush and neatly secluded. Friendly staff looks after every detail.QMali Ston, tel. (+385‑20) 75 49 99/(+385‑) 098 34 42 33, www.vila‑koruna.hr. Open 08:00‑ 22:00. (75 ‑ 210kn). APGUBLJ

zaton

ORSAn GVEROVić This fine family villa has enjoyed a cult reputation for good food since opening in 1966. Best known for its eponymous risotto (an carnival of seafood) and salad made from motar, a grass that grows at the edge of the sea.QNa ratu 7, Za‑ ton, tel. (+385‑20) 89 12 67/(+385‑) 098 27 15 55, www. gverovic‑orsan.hr. Open 12:00‑23:00. (150 ‑ 300kn). AGBL6