Top 5 Places to Eat in Zagreb

Beautiful view of St. Mark's Church and Town Square in Zagreb, Croatia under a clear blue sky.
Pham Ngoc Anh, Pexels

Zagreb's culinary landscape offers a rich tapestry of flavors, from sophisticated Michelin-starred establishments to cozy, traditional eateries, catering to discerning foodies, couples seeking romantic dinners, and travelers looking for authentic local experiences.

1. Noel

Cuisine: Innovative Croatian Cuisine

This Michelin-starred restaurant presents a modern yet cozy ambiance, adorned with local art and an inviting open kitchen . One discovers a meticulously crafted tasting menu, featuring seasonal and local ingredients like truffles and fresh seafood . Signature dishes, such as roasted duck breast with black truffle and artful vegetable puree desserts, offer a sensory journey . The attentive service and unique tea pairing options elevate the dining experience .

Price: High-end tasting menus, typically €100+ per person.

Getting There: Located centrally on Teslina Street, it is easily accessible by foot from most main areas .

2. Pod Zidom Bistro

Cuisine: Modern Croatian-Mediterranean

Recognized by the Michelin Guide, this charming bistro provides a warm and relaxed atmosphere, often featuring an outdoor terrace with views towards the Zagreb Cathedral . The menu consistently changes, highlighting fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced daily from the nearby Dolac Market . One can savor standout dishes like open lasagna with rabbit ragout, slow-cooked beef cheeks, or homemade gnocchi with creamy cheese and pumpkin seed oil . A thoughtfully curated wine list, including local and biodynamic selections, complements the innovative cuisine .

Price: Mid-range to upscale; expect around €50 per person for a meal with wine, with more affordable daily lunch specials available .

Getting There: Situated in a peaceful street in the historic heart of Zagreb, it is just steps from Ban Jelačić Square and Dolac Market .

3. Gostionica Ficlek

Cuisine: Traditional Zagreb and Central European Home-style Cuisine

Stepping into Gostionica Ficlek transports one to an old-school Zagreb eatery, complete with rustic decor and a view of the cathedral . It offers hearty, homemade dishes, reminiscent of those prepared by Croatian grandmas, using fresh ingredients from Dolac Market . Expect to find traditional specialties like ajngemahtec, zapečeni štrukli, tafelšpic, and turkey with mlinci . Smaller 'ficleki' (small bites on wooden boards) are ideal for a light meal or to enjoy with a drink .

Price: Affordable; ficleki (small bites) range from €4.30 to €25.30 for a mix platter, with main dishes also offering good value .

Getting There: Located directly beneath Zagreb's oldest farmer's market, Dolac, on Pod zidom street, making it very central and easily walkable .

4. La Štruk

Cuisine: Traditional Croatian Štrukli Specialty

This charming bistro in Zagreb's Old Town is singularly dedicated to *štrukli*, a beloved traditional Croatian doughy parcel . One discovers these handmade parcels prepared either boiled or oven-baked, with diverse fillings such as salty cheese, truffles, pumpkin seeds, apple and cinnamon, or blueberry . The ambiance is warm and rustic, offering a cozy indoor space or a pleasant hidden courtyard for dining in warmer weather . Each order is freshly prepared, ensuring a delightful, comforting taste .

Price: Budget-friendly; individual štrukli dishes range from €9 to €9.50, while soup options are around €5 .

Getting There: Found on Skalinska Street, in the heart of Zagreb's Old Town, easily accessible by foot .

5. Pivnica Mali Medo

Cuisine: Croatian Pub Fare and Craft Beer

Situated on the bustling Tkalčićeva Street, this lively pub offers a relaxed setting with a spacious outdoor terrace . It is renowned for its selection of craft beers from its own Medvedgrad Brewery, featuring various styles from pilsners to IPAs . One can enjoy generous portions of hearty, good-value pub food, including sausages, ćevapčići, goulash, burgers, and a range of pizzas .

Price: Affordable; main dishes like burgers or grilled chicken are typically €10-€15, with pizzas ranging from €7.80 to €15.90 . Beers start around €2.60 for a small draft .

Getting There: Located on the vibrant Tkalčićeva Street, a popular central area known for its cafes and nightlife, and easily walkable .