A Foodies Guide To The Best Restaurants In Dubrovnik Old Town

If you’re wondering where the best restaurants in Dubrovnik are, you’re in the right place! In this guide, I’ll highlight the top-rated restaurants in the area, where you can enjoy amazing food in the most stunning locations!

Dubrovnik’s old town is a foodie’s paradise and one of the best things about it is being able to dine next to the water’s edge or admire the historic buildings from a cool rooftop dining spot. There’s really no shortage of highly rated restaurants serving some of the best regional dishes in Croatia – if you know where to look!

Visiting Dubrovnik old town is by far the most popular thing to do in Croatia, exploring the historical sights and rounding off your day with a lovely lunch or dinner, I know first-hand how a restaurant experience can make or break your trip!

So in this guide, I’ve picked only the very best restaurants in Dubrovnik old town, I’ve spent weeks in the region trying out as many stunning restaurants with incredible food as possible! So you can be sure only the very best restaurants in Dubrovnik old town have made the cut!

Dubrovnik Restaurants Overview

If you are looking to treat yourself, which I highly recommend you do, at least once on your trip to Dubrovnik the following restaurants offer some of the best experiences that will elevate your stay there!

While Nautika is a firm favourite of mine, right next to the Lovrjenac Fortress with top-notch service, an incredible menu and views to match, there are several others equally as good!

Dubrovnik’s Old Town is one of the most beautiful places to eat in Europe, with centuries-old streets lined with charming terraces and sea-view restaurants. If you’re planning your trip, don’t miss my 3 Days in Dubrovnik itinerary – it includes restaurant stops and the best sunset spots.

Is it expensive? Sure, the top restaurants in Dubrovnik old town are definitely pricey – think Michelin-starred, butler service and fancy sommeliers, but the mid-range places are equally as nice with more purse-friendly menus!

Seaside restaurant in Dubrovnik Old Town with waterfront tables and views of the old harbour, among the best restaurants in Dubrovnik Old Town.

Gradska Kavana Arsenal

BEST Restaurants In OLD TOWN Dubrovnik With A View

NAUTIKA RESTAURANT

Location: Pile Bay

When to visit: Lunch or an hour before sunset!

Nautika is one of the most popular and highly rated restaurants in Old Town Dubrovnik that really lives up to the hype! Located just outside the city walls, this extremely photogenic Michelin-starred restaurant offers three terrace areas with stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and the nearby historic landmark; Fort Lovrjenac.

The menu features a mix of Mediterranean and Croatian cuisine, with an emphasis on sophistication and presentation (right down to the crisp white table cloths and piano). If you’re looking for a classy couples venue, Nautika hits the mark; there’s romance in spades here! In fact, one of the things I love about it is that you are not overlooked, there’s nothing to disturb your view of the sea or your meal!

My best meal here was the lobster tail with barley broad beans, sun-dried tomatoes and celery lobster ‘jus’, no – I don’t remember the description, I took a photo of the menu! Be sure to make a reservation in advance as the terrace fills up quickly, especially during peak summer season.

Check out: Tripadvisor reviews

ABOVE 5 RESTAURANT

Location: Dubrovnik old town, rooftop

When to visit: Lunch or early dinner

Above 5 restaurant sits on top of a 16th-century building in the heart of the old town and the views are as wonderful as you would expect from such a privileged location amongst the orange rooftops!

This is one of the best restaurants in Dubrovnik old town that offers guests an intimate setting – it belongs to Hotel Stari Grad, which is also one of my top three places to stay in Dubrovnik!

But the best thing about this elegant rooftop terrace is not only the location but the delicate plates of food, the menu is really creative, take my advice and order the chilli prawns if they are still on the menu!

Above 5 is a must-visit for foodies and sightseers alike, go for the service, quality of food and of course epic location, book a table here if you prefer smaller venues with shorter menus!

Check out: Tripadvisor reviews

Rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of Dubrovnik Old Town rooftops, one of the best restaurants in Dubrovnik for a romantic dinner.

Photo credit: Above 5

GRADSKA KAVANA ARSENAL

Location: Old Town Habour

When to visit: Breakfast or lunch

I love Gradska Kavana Arsenal it was one of the first restaurants in Dubrovnik old town that I visited, it’s elegant and historic and even though the location is in a prominent spot the service and food is great!

Gradska is a must-visit for breakfast or lunch, where it’s often busy with locals and visitors alike! It is a fancy place with ancient arches and high ceilings on the harbour side (the largest terrace) and on the other an intimate terrace just off the Stradun.

Surprisingly, I recommend heading here for breakfast; they do a lovely three-tiered option, which is nice to have along the harbour front, ideal for a slow morning before you catch a boat trip (see my top Croatia Boat Tours for the best options).

If you’re after something more casual, try the second terrace as you can just grab a coffee, wine or light bite here and linger as long as you like, also the terrace is elevated, so you are safe from prying eyes in this popular spot!

Check out: Tripadvisor reviews

RESTAURANT 360 DUBROVNIK

Location: Ploce Gate

When to visit: Lunch or dinner

Restaurant 360 is one of the most highly acclaimed Michelin-starred restaurants in Dubrovnik old town, known for its innovative cuisine, cool decor and stunning 360 panoramic sea views – hence the name.

Located on the top of Dubrovnik’s old town walls, the restaurant offers a gorgeous outdoor setting with amazing food to match! Careful attention is paid to locally sourced and seasonal ingredients alongside some top original dishes served a la carte – or you might want to try the tasting menu for around 170 Euro and pick a wine pairing from the best looking wine list in Croatia!

360 maybe on the pricier side of things (okay eye-wateringly expensive), but it will be one of the most memorable meals, attentive service and experiences you’ll ever have in Dubrovnik old town. Reservations for special occasions are highly recommended.

Check out: Tripadvisor reviews

Best SeaFood Restaurants in Dubrovnik Old Town

PROTO RESTAURANT

Location: Charming old town lane

When to visit: Lunch or dinner

Family owned, Proto Fish is considered the best seafood restaurant in Dubrovnik old town – it’s been on the go since 1886, a must-visit for anyone looking for an upscale dining experience with a speciality menu. I love the ground floor terrace, it’s very stylish and situated across a charming cobbled lane and there’s also more seating on the secret rooftop – for those in the know!

The restaurant offers a host of amazing fish dishes (and a few meat dishes) my favourite is the seafood pasta, but there’s also seabass salt-baked and lots of Croatian seafood specialities to try with plenty of sides, I recommend sharing a few things here.

Proto has an excellent reputation and is loved by locals, tourists and celebrities alike and is very deserving of it. If in doubt ask for the special of the day, you can’t go wrong! But, be sure to make a reservation in advance as this popular spot fills up quickly.

Check out: Tripadvisor Reviews

Photo credit: Proto Fish Restaurant

SUSHI AND OYSTER BAR BOTA

Location: Dubrovnik’s Cathedral

When to visit: Lunch

If you’re looking for a light lunch, head to the first-ever oyster & sushi bar located across from the city’s cathedral. Here, you can indulge in fresh oysters or sushi while sitting on a little terrace within a quiet corner of Dubrovnik’s old town.

The dishes are not only visually stunning, but also bursting with flavour and freshness. It’s the kind of place where you can easily add more to your order as you go on, and the best thing is the prices are not crazy expensive! It’s perfect if you’re just looking for a chilled but tasty lunch spot after exploring the city walls.

Check out: Tripadvisor reviews

Best Restaurants in OLD TOWN Dubrovnik for Croatian Food

FORTY FOUR RESTAURANT

Location: Next to Stradun

When to visit: Lunch or dinner

Forty Four is another incredible restaurant in the heart of Dubrovnik old town situated below the same named stylish boutique guest house, which I also recommend in my Dubrovnik hotel guide.

If you’re lucky enough to dine here (or even stay here), don’t miss the signature risotto with pesto truffles and scallops, or the fresh salads drizzled with olive oil produced by the same family who run the place (NBA player Bojan Bogdanović – his number was 44!).

I’ve eaten here a few times, I think the pasta dishes are out of this world and the ambience is lovely, it oozes both modern and romantic vibes, go here for an elevated experience – don’t forget to ask for recommendations from the wine list – it’s also superb!

Check out: Tripadvisor reviews

RESTAURANT DUBROVNIK

Location: Central old town

When to visit: Lunch or dinner

Another classy restaurant, the not so imaginatively named Restaurant Dubrovnik, offers excellent service with delicious Mediterranean and modern Croatian cuisine, all made with fresh produce.

I recommend this spot for a fancy lunch, it’s set within a secluded corner near Green Market Square. As soon as you set foot into the charming inner courtyard, you will feel special. Restaurant Dubrovnik is extremely sophisticated and the tables, even waiters are well-dressed!

Choose from the chef’s tasting menu or order a la carte, and don’t miss out on the crunchy ravioli with baby beef ragout – it’s another pricey place, but worth it! Reserve your spot on the swanky terrace for a special occasion, there is a reason why it’s often named as one of the best restaurants in Dubrovnik old town!

Check out: Tripadvisor reviews

A beautiful table setting at Restaurant Dubrovnik, an upscale restaurant in Dubrovnik old town.

Photo credit: Restaurant Dubrovnik

LUCIN KANTUN

Location: Old town cobbled lane

When to visit: Lunch or dinner

Lucin Kantun is one of the hidden gem old town Dubrovnik restaurants, located across a charming narrow passage away from the bustling crowds. It’s my go-to place for a light bite in the early evening – the small plates are always tasty and just the right amount for sharing 2-3 over a glass of wine (or their signature lavender gin!)

The restaurant specialises in traditional Croatian cuisine, with a focus on high-quality fresh ingredients, I really enjoyed the spinach filo pastry and the black risotto local delicacy, so so tasty!

The lovely cosy atmosphere and friendliness make it a great spot for romantic evenings (reservations recommended) or light lunches.

Check out: Tripadvisor reviews

Photo credit: Lucin Kantun

Planning a trip to Dubrovnik? Don’t forget to check out my guide on the 15 Best Things To Do In Dubrovnik Old Town or my 7 Best Day Trips From Dubrovnik Travel Guide!

DUBROVNIK RESTAURANT FAQ

Do you need to reserve a table in Dubrovnik restaurants?

Yes, I highly recommend reserving a table in all restaurants listed in this post, especially in summertime – those terraces fill up fast! You can even book weeks in advance for Dubrovnik restaurants with views like Nautika and smaller places like Above 5 Restaurant – and ask for a front-row table next to the sea!

Are Dubrovnik restaurants open all year round?

Luckily Dubrovnik is a thriving city in Croatia and restaurants are open all year round. In summer, dining is almost exclusively on the terrace and in the cooler months November to March customers move indoors or under heated lamps – my absolute favourite thing in the old town lanes.

What is the best time to eat dinner in Dubrovnik Old Town?

Dinner in Dubrovnik Old Town is commonly eaten at 8pm, but of course, you can adjust this depending on your preference. If you’re not a late eater you can dine as early as 6.30pm and linger with a glass of wine to enjoy the atmosphere as the town fills up – or when the sun sets if you’re at Nautika!

Where is the best place for lunch in Dubrovnik Old Town?

Dubrovnik old town is much quieter in the afternoons than in the evening, as many people head out on boat trips from Dubrovnik’s harbour in the daytime. However, popular restaurants with a view, such as Restaurant 360, Nautika or Above 5 are still very popular at lunchtime, which peaks at 2pm!

What are the most popular foods in Dubrovnik?

Mostly, the cuisine in Dubrovnik is Mediterranean, with some Italian influence (okay, a lot) and Croatian speciality dishes like black risotto or Buzara (shrimp and mussels with garlic, parsley and tomatoes – delish). Salt-baked fish and other types of fish from tuna to sea bass are popular mains and super fresh, as you would expect!

Restaurants In Dubrovnik Old Town – Final Thoughts!

Dubrovnik’s Old Town is truly a dream for food lovers – from romantic sea-view terraces to charming, authentic tavernas, there’s something here for every kind of traveller (and appetite!). Whether you’re after freshly caught seafood, authentic Croatian flavours, or a stylish spot for celebrations, these picks really are the best restaurants in Dubrovnik Old Town to experience the city’s charm through its food.

If you’re planning your trip, don’t miss my 3 Days in Dubrovnik Itinerary – it includes restaurant stops, the best viewpoints, and photo-worthy sunset spots. For a little adventure beyond the city walls, take a look at my Day Trips from Dubrovnik guide, where I share the prettiest islands and beaches nearby.

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Michelle Trudie
Michelle Trudie

Michelle Trudie, is the founder of Little Wanderblog, a luxury boutique travel site. She has travelled to over 30 countries in the last 15 years. Michelle share’s her passion for stylish and affordable luxury travel experiences in Europe and beyond! Her goal is to make travel planning easier to hidden gem places!

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