Gastronomy

And now, we feast

As a City-State Republic in contact with most of the world by sea and in proximity of large powers on land, Dubrovnik's cuisine is a reflection of its location, culture, and unique history. It is based on the Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes fresh fish and seafood from the Adriatic Sea, locally grown vegetables and fruits, olive oil, herbs, and spice. It is also combined with cuisine from rest of Croatia and traces and influences of Italian, Ottoman, French and Central European traditions– to name a few.

Dubrovnik's rich gastronomic tradition is perfectly complemented by its wine culture. The region's wine making history dates back to the Roman times and, like it's food, has been influenced by various civilizations over the centuries. Today, Dubrovnik boasts a range of local wines, from crisp and refreshing whites to full-bodied reds, all made with the finest grapes from the surrounding vineyards. Whether you're enjoying a seafood feast or savoring a hearty meat dish, a glass of local wine is the perfect accompaniment to Dubrovnik's gastronomical delight.

Dubrovnik’s cuisine is a feast for your senses and your well-being and here we prepared a selection of finest restaurants in Dubrovnik with authentic food and excellence in service and ambiance. They may not be the most expensive, although some are, but they are definitely places where you will enjoy highs that Dubrovnik gastronomy has to offer today. There are many more exquisite restaurants in Dubrovnik which did not make this list but feel free to explore this guide and immerse yourself in Gastronomy of Dubrovnik.

Five Best Restaurants in Dubrovnik

Nautika Restaurant

Nautika is a fine dining restaurant located at Pile Gate, next to the entrance of Dubrovnik’s old town with a spectacular view of the Adriatic Sea, the Lovrijenac Fortress, and the Bokar Fortress. The building that houses the restaurant has a history dating back to the 19th century, when it was a naval school. Today, it is one of Dubrovnik’s most prestigious restaurants, with a refined and elegant atmosphere. The restaurant has two outdoor terraces and an indoor dining room, decorated with nautical motifs and antique furniture. Nautika’s menu features Mediterranean cuisine with a creative touch, using local seafood and produce. Some of the signature dishes include lobster medallions, sea bass fillet with truffles, and lamb chops with rosemary. The restaurant also has an impressive wine list and a selection of desserts. Nautika is open every day from 1 pm to 1 am. You can make a reservation by visiting Nautika Restaurant website or calling +385 20 442 526.

360° is a Michelin-starred fine dining restaurant located in the eastern entrance of Dubrovnik’s old town, within the city walls. It offers a stunning view of the old harbor, the fortress of St. John, and the island of Lokrum and the outdoor terrace is surrounded by medieval stone walls and greenery. The restaurant has a sophisticated and romantic atmosphere, with modern decor, soft lighting, and elegant tableware. 360°’s menu showcases Croatian and Mediterranean cuisine with a creative twist, using local ingredients and French cooking techniques. Some of the signature dishes include sea bass carpaccio, lamb loin with artichokes, and chocolate soufflé. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list featuring Croatian and international labels. 360° is open for dinner only, from 6:30 pm to 10:30 pm. You can make a reservation by visiting 360° Restaurant website or calling +385 20 322 222.

360° Restaurant

Proto is a fish and seafood restaurant located in the heart of Dubrovnik’s old town, on Siroka street no. 1. It has been serving authentic Dalmatian cuisine since 1886, and has hosted many famous guests, such as Edward VIII and Wallis Simpson. The restaurant has a cozy and elegant atmosphere, with wooden furniture, white tablecloths, and paintings on the walls. The outdoor terrace offers a view of the bustling main street of Dubrovnik - Stradun. Proto’s menu features fresh fish and seafood from the Adriatic Sea, prepared with local herbs and spices. Some of the signature dishes include lobster salad, grilled octopus, black risotto, and fish stew. The restaurant also offers a selection of Croatian wines and desserts. Proto is open every day from 11 am to 11 pm. You can make a reservation by visiting Proto Restaurant website or calling +385 20 323 234.

Proto - Seafood Restaurant

Dubrovnik Restaurant is a fine dining restaurant located in the heart of Dubrovnik’s old town, just minutes from the main street Stradun. It has a cozy and elegant atmosphere, with stone walls, wooden beams, and soft lighting. The restaurant has an indoor dining room and a rooftop terrace with a panoramic view of the city. Dubrovnik Restaurant serves seafood, Mediterranean, and European cuisine, with a modern Dalmatian twist. The menu changes seasonally, using fresh and local ingredients. Some of the signature dishes include octopus salad, black risotto with cuttlefish, and beefsteak with truffles. The restaurant also has a wine cellar with over 300 wine labels from Croatia and abroad. Dubrovnik Restaurant is open every day from 12 pm to 11 pm. You can make a reservation by visiting Dubrovnik Restaurant website or by calling +385 99 258 5871.

Dubrovnik Restaurant

Dubravka 1836 Restaurant & Café is a casual dining restaurant located at Pile Gate, near the entrance of Dubrovnik’s old town. It has a stunning view of the city walls, the sea, and the Lovrijenac Fortress. The restaurant has a history dating back to 1836, when it was a coffee house for travelers and locals. Today, it is a popular spot for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinks. The restaurant has a spacious outdoor terrace and an indoor dining area with a rustic and cozy atmosphere. Dubravka 1836 Restaurant & Café serves Italian, seafood, and Mediterranean cuisine, with a variety of dishes for every taste. Some of the signature dishes include pizza Dubravka, grilled squid salad, and beefsteak with gorgonzola sauce. The restaurant also has a bar with cocktails, wines, and beers. Dubravka 1836 Restaurant & Café is open every day from 8 am to midnight. You can make a reservation by visiting Dubravka 1836 Restaurant website or calling +385 20 426 319.

Dubravka 1836 Restaurant

Dubrovnik’s cuisine is enriched by local specialities like Ston oysters, Peljesac wine, Konavle ham, Dubrovnik orange cake, candied almonds, and arancini (candied orange peel). Some of the typical local dishes include grilled fish with blitva (Swiss chard), black risotto with cuttlefish ink, octopus salad, mussels buzara (cooked in wine, garlic, and parsley), zelena menestra (smoked meat with cabbage), pasticada (beef stew with prunes), and rozata (caramel custard).

Traces of Ottoman cuisine are present in dishes like burek (flaky pastry filled with cheese or meat), baklava (sweet pastry with nuts and honey), cevapi (grilled minced meat) and you can taste Italian touches in dishes like brudet (fish soup), njoki (potato dumplings), and local hand made pasta with various sauces.

Dubrovnik’s cuisine is not only delicious, it is also healthy. It's rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids that have many benefits for your heart, brain, skin, and immune system. Being low in saturated fat and cholesterol and high in fiber and protein means it will help you feel full and energized. For more on the topic read the blog about Gastronomy of Dubrovnik.