What to eat in Dubrovnik?

We all know that the Dubrovnik is best known for its historic walls and breathtaking sea views. But many locals will tell you that the real experience of this city begins at the table. The city’s cuisine combines Mediterranean flavors, fresh seafood and traditional Dalmatian dishes that have been prepared for centuries. The only “problem” is picking out what to eat in Dubrovnik – there is such a wide range of dining experiences, from high-end restaurants to casual spots serving authentic meals you can chose from.

We’ll present you with the best dishes to try, where to find them and tips for an authentic dining experience. From street food to fine dining, here’s everything you need to know about eating in Dubrovnik.

Best food in Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik’s food scene is shaped by Dalmatian cuisine, which focuses on fresh ingredients, simple preparations, and bold Mediterranean flavors. If you want to experience the best food in Dubrovnik, these local dishes should be at the top of your list.

Black risotto

A must-try in Dubrovnik, black risotto (Croatian: crni rižoto) gets its signature dark color from cuttlefish ink, which also gives it a deep umami flavor. It’s made with finely chopped squid or cuttlefish, garlic, onion, parsley and white wine.

Some versions also include a touch of tomato for extra depth. The result is a creamy, rich dish with an intense seafood taste. You’ll find it in almost every seafood restaurant, but some of the best versions are served at Konoba Dubrava and Proto. Pair it with a chilled glass of Pošip, a crisp white wine from the Korčula island that complements the dish’s briny flavor.

Pašticada

For a hearty meal, pašticada is a top choice. This slow-cooked beef dish is marinated in vinegar and garlic for up to 24 hours before being stewed with onions, carrots, prunes, and red wine. This tender, flavorful meat dish is best served with homemade gnocchi and is usually eaten in Dubrovnik as a Sunday family meal. If you’re looking for an authentic experience, seek out traditional konobas (taverns) like Kopun or Konoba Dubrava, where they follow the classic preparation method.

Buzara-style seafood

If you love shellfish, you’ll want to order buzara-style seafood at least once. This simple but flavorful cooking method is used for mussels, shrimp, or scampi, prepared in a sauce of white wine, olive oil, garlic, parsley, and breadcrumbs. There’s also a red buzara version that includes tomatoes for a richer sauce.

The key to enjoying this dish is the bread – locals always mop up the flavorful broth with thick slices of homemade bread. Some of the best places to try it include Lokanda Peskarija, right by the harbor, and Bota Šare, which is known for high-quality seafood.

Fresh seafood

With the Adriatic Sea at its doorstep, Dubrovnik is a seafood paradise. Many restaurants serve the day’s fresh catch, often prepared using simple Mediterranean techniques that highlight the natural flavors.

Grilled fish

One of the most common and beloved seafood dishes in Dubrovnik is grilled fish (Croatian: riba na gradele). Depending on the season, you’ll find sea bass (brancin), sea bream (orada), John Dory (škarpina) or dentex (zubatac) on the menu. The fish is simply seasoned with olive oil, sea salt, and fresh herbs, then grilled over an open flame for a smoky, crispy skin and tender flesh.

It’s typically served with blitva, a side dish of Swiss chard and potatoes drizzled with olive oil and garlic. This is one of the best ways to experience the pure, fresh flavors of the Adriatic.

For a truly authentic seafood meal, head to Konoba Dubrava on Srđ Hill or Orsan in Lapad, where locals go for perfectly grilled fish.

Octopus salad

If you’re looking for something light, refreshing, and full of Mediterranean flavors, octopus salad (Croatian: salata od hobotnice) is a great choice. The octopus is first boiled until tender, then cut into pieces and mixed with olive oil, lemon juice, capers, red onion, parsley, and sometimes potatoes.

This fresh, citrusy dish pairs well with a glass of Malvasija, a local white wine. Many restaurants serve this as a starter, and some of the best versions can be found at Azur and Bowa, where they use locally sourced octopus for the best texture and flavor.

Lobster pasta

For a decadent seafood experience, try lobster pasta (Croatian: špageti s jastogom). This dish is made with fresh Adriatic lobster cooked in a sauce of tomatoes, garlic, white wine, and olive oil, then tossed with homemade pasta. Some versions are slightly spicy, which adds a kick to the rich, briny sauce.

This dish is often served in high-end seafood restaurants, especially those near the harbor. 360 Dubrovnik, a Michelin-starred restaurant, offers a premium version, while Proto Fish Restaurant is another excellent choice for those looking for an authentic dining experience.

Where to eat in Dubrovnik for a full experience?

Some of the best meals are served in konobas (traditional taverns), family-run seafood spots and casual eateries that locals swear by. If you’re looking for a slow-cooked Dalmatian specialty or a quick seafood bite, you should visit these places.

Konoba Dubrava – a place to try Peka

Located on Srđ Hill, about a 15-minute drive from Old Town, Konoba Dubrava is famous for Peka, a traditional slow-cooked dish made under a metal bell covered in embers. The most popular options are lamb, veal, or octopus, which are cooked for several hours with potatoes and vegetables, absorbing smoky and rich flavors. Because of the long preparation time, you need to call ahead and pre-order your Peka at least a few hours in advance.

The setting here is rustic, with wooden tables and a warm, homey atmosphere. The portions are generous, so it’s best to visit with a group. If you’re heading up to Srđ Hill for sunset views or a ride on the cable car, this is the perfect place to stop for dinner.

Location: Bosanka, Dubrovnik
Reservations: Required for Peka (Call +385 20 416 405)
Getting there: Taxi or drive (parking available)

Barba – quick seafood bites

If you’re exploring Old Town and want something quick, fresh, and local, you should try Barba. This small, casual seafood bar specializes in fast and delicious Dalmatian street food. Some of the most popular items on the menu include:

Fried calamari in a cone – Crispy, golden, and served with house-made tartar sauce.
Shrimp burger – A unique and tasty alternative to traditional seafood dishes.
Octopus sandwich – Lightly grilled octopus served in a soft bun with fresh greens and a tangy dressing.

There are only a few tables inside, so it’s a great place to grab food to go. It’s especially popular in the summer, as it’s one of the few spots where you can get a high-quality seafood snack without a long wait.

Location: Boškovićeva 5, Old Town Dubrovnik
Best time to visit: Lunch or early evening (before it gets crowded)

Lady Pi-Pi – open-air grilled meats & seafood

For a laid-back meal with one of the best views in Dubrovnik, Lady Pi-Pi is a must-visit. This small open-air restaurant sits above Old Town. This means you can enjoy a panoramic view of the terracotta rooftops while you eat fresh-off-the-grill seafood and meats.

The specialties here are grilled fish, squid, shrimp, and mixed meat platters cooked over a charcoal grill. The portions are generous and everything is made to order, so expect to wait a bit. Since Lady Pi-Pi does not take reservations, it’s best to arrive early (especially in peak season) to grab a table.

Location: Antuninska 23, Old Town Dubrovnik
Best time to visit: Right when they open (especially for dinner)
No reservations: First come, first served

What to eat in Dubrovnik – sweet treats and desserts

Most of desserts in Dubrovnik use almonds, citrus, honey, and homemade liqueurs, which reflects the region’s Mediterranean influence. There’s something for every sweet tooth – from light and creamy to rich and nutty desserts.

Rožata – Dubrovnik’s signature dessert

Rožata is a creamy custard dessert similar to crème caramel, but with a distinct Dubrovnik twist – it’s flavored with homemade rose liqueur. This gives it a delicate floral aroma that sets it apart from similar desserts found in other parts of Croatia.

It’s served chilled, drizzled with a light caramel sauce, and often garnished with a slice of orange or a few almonds. Many traditional restaurants in Dubrovnik include Rožata on their menu, so it’s easy to find. For the most authentic experience, try it at a local konoba or family-run eatery where it’s made using old family recipes.

Where to try it: Restaurant Kopun, Konoba Dubrava

Arancini and bruštulani minduli

If you’re looking for a sweet snack or a small edible souvenir, your best bets are Arancini and Bruštulani minduli.

Arancini are candied orange peels, made by slowly boiling the peel in sugar syrup until they turn chewy and slightly translucent. The natural citrus oils give them a deep, zesty flavor and they’re often dusted with sugar before serving.
Bruštulani minduli are caramelized almonds, coated in a crispy sugar glaze. They have a satisfying crunch and a nutty, slightly smoky sweetness.

Both of these traditional Dalmatian sweets are easy to find at local markets, bakeries, and souvenir shops, which makes them a great treat to bring home.

Where to find them: Gundulić Square Market, souvenir shops in Old Town

Dubrovnik cake

For something decadent, Dubrovnik cake is a must-try. This traditional cake is made with ground almonds, dark chocolate and orange zest. It gives it a dense and moist texture with a deep, nutty flavor. There’s no flour in the recipe, so it’s a good option for those avoiding gluten.

It’s typically served with a dusting of powdered sugar and pairs perfectly with a cup of strong Croatian coffee or a glass of prošek (Dalmatian dessert wine). You’ll find it in many local pastry shops and cafés, often made fresh daily.

Where to try it: Gradska Kavana Arsenal, Pastičeria Pupica

Drinks to accompany your food in Dubrovnik

It’s not just about what to eat in Dubrovnik. A meal in this city isn’t complete without a drink that enhances the flavors of the local cuisine. Croatia has a long tradition of winemaking and distillation, and Dubrovnik’s restaurants and taverns offer a variety of regional wines, liqueurs, and brandies to match any dish.

Plavac Mali – Dalmatia’s famous red wine

Plavac Mali is a rich and full-bodied red wine. This indigenous Croatian grape variety grows on the Pelješac Peninsula, just north of Dubrovnik. The wine has dark fruit flavors, bold tannins and hints of spice. It pairs well with grilled meats, Pašticada or aged cheeses.

Some of the best Plavac Mali wines come from the Dingač and Postup regions, known for their high-quality vineyards. Many wine bars and restaurants in Dubrovnik offer bottles from local wineries, while wine tours to Pelješac are a great way to experience the best of this variety firsthand.

Where to try it: D’Vino Wine Bar, Bakus Wine Bar (Ston)

Join our wine tasting tour of Pelješac Peninsula

Pošip – a crisp white for seafood lovers

If you’re ordering grilled fish, octopus salad, or shellfish, Pošip is the ideal wine pairing. This dry white wine originates from Korčula, an island known for its vineyards and historic winemaking tradition. Pošip has bright citrus notes, a slight minerality, and a refreshing acidity, which brings out the delicate flavors of fresh Adriatic seafood.

It’s widely available in Dubrovnik’s restaurants, often served by the glass or bottle. Many family-run wineries on Korčula and Pelješac produce exceptional Pošip, so if you have time for a wine-tasting trip, it’s worth the visit.

Where to try it: Panorama Restaurant, Konoba Veranda

Rakija – a traditional aperitif

No visit to Dubrovnik is complete without trying Rakija, a strong fruit brandy traditionally served before or after a meal. Locals often offer it as a welcoming drink, and it comes in many varieties, depending on the fruit or herbs used in production.

Loza Rakija – A grape-based brandy, popular across Dalmatia
Šljivovica – Plum brandy, known for its smooth yet strong flavor
Travarica – A herbal Rakija infused with local Mediterranean herbs
Orahovac – A walnut liqueur with a slightly sweet and nutty taste

Rakija is typically served in small shot glasses, but it’s meant to be sipped slowly. Some versions are very strong (40% alcohol or more), so be prepared for a warming sensation with each sip.

Where to try it: Most traditional restaurants and bars, or purchase a bottle at a local market as a souvenir

Is food expensive in Dubrovnik?

Dining in Dubrovnik can range from budget-friendly to high-end, depending on where you eat. Restaurants inside the Old Town tend to be more expensive due to the prime location and high tourist demand. Expect to pay around:

€15-25 for a main course at a mid-range restaurant
€30-50 per person at higher-end restaurants
€5-10 for street food or casual bites like burek, sandwiches, or seafood snacks

Cheap food in Dubrovnik

If you’re looking for more affordable options, head to local bakeries (pekara), small taverns outside the Old Town, or markets selling fresh produce and seafood.

What time do people eat dinner in Dubrovnik?

Dinner in Dubrovnik is usually later than in northern Europe, with most restaurants serving from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Many locals dine around 8:00 PM or later, especially in summer when evenings are warm.

For an authentic experience, consider booking a table for around 8:30 PM. This way you will have a chance to enjoy the lively atmosphere and cooler temperatures. If you prefer an earlier dinner, restaurants typically open by 6:00 PM, but some might not be as busy at that time.

Are there Michelin-star restaurants in Dubrovnik?

Yes, Dubrovnik is home to Michelin-starred and Michelin-recommended restaurants that offer fine dining with a local twist.

360° Restaurant (1 Michelin star) – Located on the city walls, this restaurant serves modern Dalmatian cuisine with spectacular views of the harbor.
Stara Loza – Part of the Michelin guide, known for creative seafood and meat dishes in an elegant setting.
Nautika – A well-regarded restaurant with a focus on high-quality Adriatic seafood and stunning sea views.

Reservations are highly recommended, especially in the peak summer months.

Traditional food in Dubrovnik

If you want to avoid tourist traps and eat like a local, check out these spots:

Konoba Dubrava (Bosanka) – A short ride from Old Town, famous for Peka (slow-cooked meat or octopus), as mentioned before.
Kamenice (Old Town) – A simple seafood restaurant known for fresh oysters, mussels, and grilled fish.
Pantarul (Lapad) – A modern bistro with seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients, popular among Dubrovnik residents.
Taj Mahal (Old Town & Lapad) – Despite the name, it serves authentic Bosnian food, which is loved by both locals and visitors.
Gruž Market stalls – A great spot for picking up fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood from local fishermen and farmers.

These places offer a more authentic and often better-priced dining experience compared to restaurants in heavily touristic areas.

Food to eat in Dubrovnik

Food in Dubrovnik is a big part of the experience. You’ll find a lot of fresh seafood, grilled meats, homemade pastas and traditional dishes like black risotto and peka. The flavors are simple but rich, and everything usually comes with good olive oil and fresh herbs.

It’s worth checking out the local market in the Old Town in the morning – great for local cheese, figs, or just people-watching. For a more local vibe, eat at a konoba and try a glass of regional wine like Plavac Mali or Dingač.

The food in Dubrovnik is tasty, unpretentious and usually made with a lot of care. Take your time, enjoy it and don’t skip dessert.

Photography: Pixabay

Get in touch:

Send sms

Call us