Dubrovnik Old Town is a foodie’s paradise, with its historic architecture, beautiful views, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re a fan of seafood, local wine, or just looking for a good brunch spot, there’s something for everyone in this charming Croatian city. But with so many options to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start!
As a seasoned traveller to Croatia and Dubrovnik I know how a great meal and experience can make or break your trip. This foodie’s guide is a short cut to the hotspots and hidden gems – I’ve scoured the streets of Dubrovnik to bring you the best restaurants, cafés, and bars in the old town and beyond!
Looking for the best place for coffee? A healthy brunch? Terrace with a view? Amazing lunch spots and local wine? This guide – Where to eat, drink and relax in Dubrovnik has you covered!
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS GUIDE
- What to eat in Dubrovnik old town
- Where to eat in Dubrovnik old town
- What to drink in Dubrovnik old town
- Where to drink in Dubrovnik old town
- Where to eat & drink beyond Dubrovnik old town
What makes Dubrovnik’s Old Town a foodie’s paradise?
Dubrovnik’s Old Town is full of narrow streets and hidden alleyways that are home to some of the city’s best restaurants and the location, on the Adriatic coast means that fresh seafood is a staple of the local diet. Some of Dubrovnik’s restaurant’s not only offer great food but also a stunning view, check out the terrace of Panorama Restaurant, it’s other worldly.
But what really sets Dubrovnik’s food scene apart is the quality of the ingredients. Many of the restaurants in the Old Town source their produce locally, which means that you’re getting the freshest, most flavourful food possible.
Photo credit: Gradska Kavava Arsenal
WHAT TO EAT IN DUBROVNIK
Dubrovnik is known for its Mediterranean cuisine, which is everyone’s summer favourite – think fresh seafood, olive oil, and grilled vegetables and there’s lots of influence from neighbouring Italy plus other regions in Croatia, it’s incredibly diverse. You’ll be able to choose from pasta with Istrian truffles, cheese from the island of Pag, plus tasty Dalmatian ham and the iconic Peka lamb!
In recent years the number of international and fusion restaurants have increased with the notable addition of Sushi and Oyster Bar Bota and Fratellos Procecco bar and there are even some vegan (Nishta) vegetarian and fantastic brunch options too.
LOCAL CUISINE & SPECIALITIES
One of the most popular local dishes in Dubrovnik is the black risotto, which is made with squid ink and is often served with seafood – it’s a must try. Other local specialties include octopus salad, grilled fish (sea-bass and seabream in particular) along with a side dish of swiss chard (similar to spinach).
If you’re a fan of grilled meats, then you’ll love traditional dishes like cevapi, which are small sausages made from beef and lamb (head to restaurant Taj Mahal). And of course, no meal in Dubrovnik is complete without a portion of freshly baked bread and locally produced olive oil.
Aside from the restaurant scene, in the bakeries you’ll find the best thing ever made – Burek. A dough pastry filled with either meat, cheese or spinach, they are a delicious snack at any time of day, but are usually eaten mid-morning.
COSTS FOR EATING OUT IN DUBROVNIK
You will not be surprised to hear that eating and drinking in quality restaurants around Dubrovnik old town is more expensive than anywhere else in Croatia. However, there are some lovely mid-range restaurants, casual coffee shops and fantastic wine and food pairing places such as my favourite Alamaka tapas bar – with local wine straight from the vineyards.
The prices? Expect to pay around 35€ for a fish or meat main at a well located/popular restaurant with starters between 10€ and 15€, while pasta and risotto is upward of 15€. Lunch and breakfasts can be as little as 5€ for a coffee and croissant or 15€ for an indulgent continental style brunch!
WHERE TO EAT IN DUBROVNIK OLD TOWN
Whether you’re looking for fine dining or a simple tapas bar, there will be something to satisfy any type of craving, it’s just knowing where to find them! From the humble hole in a wall with a view – Buza bar to Michelin awarded Restaurant 360, there are some varied and interesting places to eat in Dubrovnik old town. Here are my top choices for breakfast, lunch and dinner!
BEST BREAKFAST IN DUBROVNIK OLD TOWN
Breakfast in Dubrovnik used to be a rare sight, but now there’s a handful of good options around the old town that serve breakfast until midday! From croissants to eggs and avocado, here’s where to eat breakfast in Dubrovnik old town.
STRADOON
Café Stradoon is easily one of my favourite places in Dubrovnik for breakfast – in the centre of the main street with Church of Blaise views. It’s a popular spot and the breakfast menu is served until 2pm! Order one of the fresh juices and a portion of avocado toast – you can’t go wrong!
PUCIC PALACE
A surprise find in Gundulic Square in the heart of the historic district. Pucic Palace is a Baroque aristocrat’s mansion converted into a luxury boutique with a charming Parisian-style café. Enjoy a fluffy omelette with fresh continental breadbasket and watch all the bustle of the market unfold!
GRADSKA KAVAVA ARSENAL
Wondering where to eat in Dubrovnik old town for a stand out breakfast or special occasion? Head to Gradska. It’s posh harbour view terrace and top notch service attracts both locals and tourists alike, there’s also a second terrace overlooking the main square. Breakfast is usually ordered from the set menu and is best enjoyed if you’re not in a rush!
8 Best things to do in Dubrovnik Old Town
Breakfast on the go? Try the Market Square (proper name: Gundulic) in Dubrovnik’s old town below the Jesuit stair, some of the stalls sell fresh fruit pots. Alternatively pick up a sweet or savory pastry from one of the bakeries and enjoy with a fresh coffee on a terrace – just as the locals do!
BEST COFFEE IN DUBROVNIK OLD TOWN
Here are my best café recommends with outdoor terraces and very good coffee!
Cafe Festival – as traditional as it gets (the oldest cafe in Dubrovnik) on the main street – Stradum with excellent people watching views and perfect latte’s.
Soul Cafe – small and atmospheric, you’ll find this little gem down a passage off the main street and there’s live music in the evenings.
Cogito – cute and casual coffee house set in two quirky locations, best for a quick stop on your walk around the walls, the coffee is the real deal!
Gradska Kavana Arsenal – a wonderful up market terrace in a prime location, don’t be put off by the grandness many customers while away the hours here with a coffee!
BEST LUNCH SPOTS IN DUBROVNIK OLD TOWN
There are some lovely lunch spots in and around the old town of Dubrovnik, from the tapas of Alamaka situated within an atmospheric cobbled nook to the fabulous restaurant Above 5 with a panoramic view over the orange roof tops, here’s what you need to know.
LUCIN KATUN
A great little family ran restaurant and charming narrow terrace situated away from the bustling crowds! Lucin Kantun is a hidden gem in Dubrovnik old town, it’s my go to place for a light lunch or tapas in the early evening. The food is always amazing, presented well and delivered with fantastic service! Try the spinach filo pastry or the back risotto – it’s meant to be one of the best in town!
KOPUN
If you’re looking to try some traditional Croatian cuisine while in Dubrovnik then you must visit Kopun restaurant! With years of experience, the owners have created a menu that showcases the best of local ingredients and cooking techniques – you won’t find the typical tourist fare here or a more beautiful square to eat it in!
ALAMAKA TAPAS BAR
Just off the main street is where you’ll find my all time favourite tapas bar Alamaka, which will give you a true taste of Croatia – in an authentic way. There’s lots of casual sharing boards as well as delicious local wine to sample- without the crowds of tourists, it’s why I keep coming back!
SUSHI AND OYSTER BAR BOTA
For a unique experience and a light bite in Dubrovnik’s old town, head to the first ever oyster & sushi bar located across from the city’s cathedral. Here, you can indulge in fresh oysters while sitting on a cute terrace within a quiet corner. The dishes are not only visually stunning, but also bursting with flavour and freshness.
Photo credit: Sushi and Oyster Bar Bota
Combine history with food with this amazing small group tour within the Old Town of Dubrovnik. Reserve your spot here: Dubrovnik Gastronomy 3 hour food & wine tour.
TOP RESTAURANTS IN DUBROVNIK OLD TOWN
In the heart of Dubrovnik you’ll find the highest concentration of upscale and one of a kind restaurants. Why not treat yourself to an amazing setting, great service, white table cloths and some of the most refined dishes in Croatia. Here’s my top three restaurants in Dubrovnik Old Town and below a link to a more detailed post!
TIP! For solo travellers like myself, a late lunch is best, the evenings can be super romantic and the high end service really ramps up a notch!
PROTO FISH RESTAURANT
Considered one of the best seafood restaurants in Dubrovnik old town, Proto has been serving traditional Dalmatian cuisine since 1886! You’ll find everything from lobster to seafood pasta alongside beautiful presentation that matches the equally attractive terrace – no wonder Proto is popular! Bookings for lunch are essential.
NAUTIKA
If you’re looking for a fine dining experience in Dubrovnik, then Nautika is the place to go. Located just outside the city walls, Nautika offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and the nearby island of Lokrum. This romantic spot is one of the most formal in town, you can expect to be rubbing shoulders with Hollywood royalty and with two Michelin stars – a phenomenal Mediterranean menu!
ABOVE 5
Another amazing restaurant offering creative Mediterranean cuisine with a hint of local flavour in the old town of Dubrovnik with a view over the terracotta roofs. Above 5 is much more intimate with lots of ambience and short well crafted menu. It’s situated on the 5th floor terrace of a small boutique hotel in the very centre of the old town – lunch is my favourite time to go, the food and views are just epic.
A guide to the best restaurants in Old Town Dubrovnik
Photo credit: Proto Fish Restaurant
WHERE TO EAT IN DUBROVNIK WITH A VIEW
Dubrovnik is a one of a kind city that has both great food and spectacular scenery! If you’re wondering where to eat in Dubrovnik with a view, Above 5, Grandaska and Nautica are all perfectly good choices, but there is one more to add and that’s the aptly named Panorama at the top of Mount Srd – just look at the below image!
PANORAMA SRD.
Panorama restaurant is often mentioned when searching for the ‘best restaurants in Dubrovnik Old Town with a view’ and for good reason – it really has a truly stunning view and good food to match. It’s one of the best places to eat in Dubrovnik while over-looking the entire old town below. You can either take the Cable Car or hike up the mountain to reach the top – the breathtaking scenery is absolutely worth the effort.
TIP! For the ultimate experience, visit during sunset and enjoy a cocktail or dinner. But be sure to make a reservation, especially during the busy summer season you don’t want to miss this!
Photo credit: Panorama Restaurant
WHAT TO DRINK IN DUBROVNIK
If you’re looking for a cool place to sample the local wine and other specialities while in Dubrovnik, why not pop into a local wine bar? Two regions to look out for are Korcula and Peljesac. Some popular brands from Peljesac include Korta Katarina, Rozic, and Matusko, while Posip Cara is a well-known wine from Korcula. For a taste of the Konavle region of Dubrovnik, try Dubrovacka Malvazija. Cheers!
WHERE TO DRINK IN DUBROVNIK OLD TOWN
One of the things you will always find in the heritage towns of Croatia and that’s an inviting cosy bar! If you fancy a glass of local wine there’s 2-3 lovely wine bars to seek out in Dubrovnik’s Old Town or perhaps a casual beer or cocktail along a cliff terrace or cool roof top is more your thing? Here are my top places for a tipple.
D’VINO WINE BAR
A popular yet cosy wine bar that has the largest choice of local wines! Grab a seat outside the narrow passage in the heart of the old town and take your selections with a sharing board to kick start your night.
MALVASIJA WINE BAR
An inviting and rather small family ran wine bar serving wine from their very own vineyard in nearby Konavle valley. Go for the excellent recommendations and warm service!
POKLISAR RESTAURANT – TERRACE
Poklisar’s sprawling terrace is in the perfect spot to enjoy an afternoon drink with harbour sea views and bustle! Whats better then a lovely harbour? *If you take a seat before 4pm you will miss the cheesy live music!
FRATELLOS PROSECCO BAR
There’s a lot I can say about Fratellos Processco Bar – it’s the best bar in Dubrovnik with three levels and sweeping views over the blue sea. Relax and enjoy the lovely ambience, jazz and a selection of great cocktails! I found this gem just 10-15 minutes outside of Ploce Gate. Do not miss it!
BUZA BAR
A lively and casual literal hole in the wall, Buza bar is a popular daytime place for both swimming and drinking. It’s bottle-only (order the lemon beer) and you will get uninterrupted sea and Lokrum Island views. Be sure to arrive well before sunset or you might be left waiting outside!
Photo credit: Alamaka Tapas Bar
WHERE TO EAT, DRINK & RELAX OUTSIDE OF DUBROVNIK OLD TOWN
LOKRUM ISLAND
Lacroma Restaurant – perfect lunch spot and a wonderful peaceful terrace surrounded by peacocks no-less! This restaurant is a must if you’re visiting the lush forested island of Lokrum, enjoy the fresh salads, wine, coffee and views.
CAVTAT BAY
La Boheme – I read up about this seafront restaurant before I took the water taxi from Dubrovnik’s old town harbour to Cavtat and it didn’t disappoint! You’ll find delicious plates of food such as tuna, quinoa and avocado salad and endless palm tree views to enjoy it with!
Caffe Bar Amour – along the old town of Cavtat’s small harbour – a prime position with lots of comfortable chairs on the sunny terrace and a nice relaxed vibe! Drop by for a coffee or cocktail and a spot of people watching after a day of exploring!
LAPAD BAY
Coral Beach Club – the perfect spot to relax, away from the hustle and bustle of the old town. Coral beach is a club with two beautiful shallow water beach coves with sunbeds, service, cool bohemian music and stunning scenery. There’s an extensive cocktail and wine list to enjoy either in the bar, sofa or sunbed, an easy place to spend the afternoon!
5 Wonderful daytrips from Dubrovnik
Photo credit: Get Your Guide wine tasting tour
Tips for experiencing the food scene in Dubrovnik’s Old Town
If you want to experience the best of Dubrovnik’s food scene, then here are a few tips to keep in mind:
– Look for restaurants that source their ingredients locally. This ensures that you’re getting the freshest, most flavorful food possible.
– Try the seafood. Dubrovnik is located on the Adriatic coast, which means that the seafood is some of the best in the world.
– Don’t be afraid to try traditional Dalmatian dishes. These dishes are simple but full of flavor and are a true reflection of the local cuisine.
– Visit the farmers’ market. The farmers’ market in Dubrovnik’s Old Town is a great place to sample local produce and meats.
Other food-related activities in Dubrovnik’s Old Town
If you want to take your foodie experience in Dubrovnik to the next level, then here’s a few other food-related activities to consider:
Take a cooking class – there are several cooking classes in Dubrovnik that will teach you how to make traditional Dalmatian dishes.
Visit a winery – Dubrovnik is known for its wine, and there are several wineries in the surrounding area that offer tastings and tours.
Attend a food and wine tour in the old town – immerse yourself in Dubrovnik’s gastronomy on this 3-hour food and wine tour. Learn exactly where to eat in Dubrovnik old town by a local.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for a fine dining experience or a cool beach bar, there’s something for everyone in Dubrovnik. So, grab a table, order a glass of local wine, and enjoy the culinary delights of this beautiful city, you will not regret it!
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Explore Dubrovnik
- Where to eat, drink & relax in Dubrovnik
- A guide to the best restaurants in old town Dubrovnik
- Where to stay in old town Dubrovnik
- 8 Best things to do in Dubrovnik old town
- 5 Best day trips from Dubrovnik
- Cavtat day trip from Dubrovnik
- 20 Inspiring photos of Dubrovnik
- Croatia tips
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