What to Eat in Croatia: A Guide to the Best Croatian Dishes
Croatia is a dream destination for food lovers. Whether you’re into fresh seafood, hearty comfort food, or unique local specialties, Croatian cuisine has something for everyone. Here’s what you need to try when you visit.
1. Seafood from the Adriatic
If you’re visiting coastal cities like Split or Dubrovnik, you’ll notice seafood is everywhere—and it’s as fresh as it gets. Grilled fish, octopus salad, and black risotto (made with cuttlefish ink) are some of the must-try dishes. For something rich, order brudet, a traditional seafood stew that pairs perfectly with a glass of local wine.
2. Truffles and Olive Oil in Istria
Istria is famous for its truffles, which are used in everything from pasta to scrambled eggs. The region’s olive oil is some of the best in the world, so make sure to try it while you’re there. For a fun experience, join a truffle hunting tour in towns like Motovun or Buzet.
3. Traditional Peka Dishes
Peka is more than just food—it’s an experience. Meat or seafood is slow-cooked under a bell-shaped lid covered with hot coals, giving it an incredible flavor. You’ll find this dish in rural restaurants across Dalmatia and Istria. Lamb and octopus are the most popular options.
4. Dalmatian Classic: Pašticada
Pašticada is a beef dish that’s been slow-cooked in a flavorful sauce made with wine, prunes, and spices. It’s served with gnocchi and is one of the most iconic meals in Dalmatia. Locals usually save it for special occasions, but you can find it on menus in Split and beyond.
5. Ćevapi: A Grilled Favorite
Ćevapi are small grilled sausages made from minced meat, often served with flatbread, onions, and ajvar (a roasted red pepper spread). While this dish is popular across the Balkans, you’ll find delicious versions in Croatian cities like Zagreb and Osijek.
6. Hearty Zagreb Dishes
Inland Croatia has a different vibe when it comes to food—think rich and comforting meals. Try štrukli, a baked pastry filled with cheese, or purica s mlincima, roast turkey served with soft pasta sheets. Zagreb has plenty of cozy spots to enjoy these dishes.
7. Pag Cheese and Prosciutto
Croatia’s island of Pag is known for its sheep’s milk cheese (paški sir), a salty, flavorful treat. Pair it with Dalmatian prosciutto, which is cured using sea salt and dried in the coastal breeze. These simple bites are perfect for starting a meal or enjoying with a glass of wine.
8. Sweet Treats to Try
Croatia’s desserts are worth saving room for. Don’t miss fritule, small fried dough balls often dusted with sugar, or rožata, a creamy caramel dessert from Dalmatia. If you’re near Zagreb, try kremšnite, a custard slice that’s especially popular in Samobor.
9. Local Wine and Rakija
Croatia’s wine scene is growing fast, with incredible reds like Plavac Mali from Dalmatia and crisp whites like Malvazija from Istria. For something stronger, try rakija, a plum or grape based brandy that’s a big part of Croatian culture. Each region has its own twist, from herbal and fruit flavors to honey-infused versions.
Plan Your Foodie Trip to Croatia
The best way to discover Croatian food is to dive in and try it all. Explore local markets, dine at family-run restaurants, and don’t shy away from asking locals for recommendations. Whether you’re eating fresh seafood by the coast, truffle pasta in Istria, or ćevapi in Zagreb, Croatian cuisine will leave you craving more.
