Dubrovnik-Neretva County is Croatia's southernmost county, renowned for the UNESCO-listed walled city of Dubrovnik, the Pelješac Peninsula with its world-class wines and oysters, and the lush Neretva River delta. The region encompasses stunning Adriatic coastline, idyllic islands including Korčula, Mljet, and the Elafiti archipelago, and historic towns that blend Venetian and Ragusan architectural heritage.
Dubrovnik-Neretva cuisine is rooted in the Mediterranean traditions of the Republic of Ragusa, emphasizing the bounty of the Adriatic Sea, locally grown olive oil and citrus, and slowly evolved Dalmatian cooking techniques. Seafood dominates — fresh grilled fish, black risotto, seafood buzara (shellfish in wine sauce), and the world-renowned oysters of Mali Ston. Meat dishes follow Dalmatian traditions: lamb and veal slow-cooked under a peka (iron bell), prosciutto from local breezes, and pašticada (beef marinated in wine). The wine culture is exceptional: Pelješac produces some of Croatia's finest reds (Dingač, Postup) while Korčula's whites (Grk, Pošip) are gaining international recognition.
Must-try dishes
Iconic dishes that define Dubrovnik Neretva.
Mali Ston Oysters
World-famous oysters from the pristine Bay of Mali Ston on Pelješac, considered some of Europe's finest
Where to try: Mali Ston restaurants or Bota Šare in Dubrovnik Old Town
Price: €15-20/dozen
Black Risotto (Crni Rižot)
Dalmatia's signature dish — risotto made with cuttlefish and colored jet-black with cuttlefish ink, intensely flavored
Where to try: Any good restaurant in Dubrovnik Old Town
Price: €16-25
Pašticada
The ultimate Dalmatian festive dish: beef marinated in vinegar, red wine, and spices then slow-braised for hours
Where to try: Restaurant Proto or Konoba Kopun
Price: €22-30
Rozata
Dubrovnik's own version of crème brûlée — a silky caramel custard made with rose liqueur, unique to Ragusan cuisine
Where to try: Any traditional restaurant in Old Town
Price: €6-8
Peka (Under the Bell)
Slow-cooked lamb, veal, or octopus under a heavy iron bell (peka) covered with embers — must be ordered 24 hours ahead
Where to try: Konoba Dalmatino, Konoba Kopun
Price: €20-30
Top restaurants
Handpicked picks for the best dining experiences.
Restaurant 360°
Arguably Dubrovnik's most spectacular dining experience, set on top of the ancient city walls with panoramic views of the Old Port and Adriatic. The innovative menu highlights local ingredients — Pelješac oysters, Adriatic fish, truffle and black risotto — in elegant contemporary presentations with an extensive Croatian wine list.
Known for: On-the-wall fine dining with sea views
Sv. Dominika 3, 20000 Dubrovnik
Restaurant Nautika
Located at the base of the city walls next to Pile Gate with sweeping sea views from its terrace, Nautika has been one of Dubrovnik's finest restaurants for decades. Fresh Adriatic lobster, Dalmatian fish specialties, and impeccable service make it a special occasion destination.
Known for: Fresh Adriatic lobster and Dalmatian seafood classics
Brsalje 3, 20000 Dubrovnik
Restaurant Proto
One of Dubrovnik's oldest and most respected restaurants, established in 1886, with a beautiful Old Town terrace shaded by an ancient palm tree. Proto specializes in Ragusan cuisine traditions — pasticada (beef braised in wine), black risotto, and fresh fish — with an excellent Croatian wine cellar.
Known for: Traditional Ragusan cuisine since 1886
Široka 1, 20000 Dubrovnik
Bota Šare Oyster & Sushi Bar
A unique Dubrovnik gem that pairs the world-famous Pelješac oysters from nearby Mali Ston with Japanese-inspired sushi preparation. The raw bar is exceptional, and the combination of Croatian terroir with Japanese technique makes this a truly original dining experience in the heart of Old Town.
Known for: Fresh Pelješac oysters and seafood fusion
Od Pustijerne 1, 20000 Dubrovnik
Konoba Dalmatino
A beloved authentic konoba tucked in a narrow alley behind Stradun, serving honest Dalmatian home cooking at prices far more reasonable than the main tourist restaurants. The riblja plata (mixed fish platter), grilled meats under peka (a bell-shaped lid), and house wine are consistently excellent.
Known for: Traditional peka-cooked dishes and fresh fish
Miha Pracata 6, 20000 Dubrovnik
Konoba Ribar
A simple, family-run fish restaurant at the edge of Old Town near the Old Port, where the freshest catch of the day is grilled simply and honestly. A refreshing contrast to the tourist-oriented Old Town restaurants with excellent value and genuine Dalmatian hospitality.
Known for: Simple grilled Adriatic fish
Kovačka 1, 20000 Dubrovnik
Restaurant Sesame
A popular restaurant in Dubrovnik's Ploče district with a pleasant courtyard terrace serving creative Mediterranean cuisine at mid-range prices. Known for generous portions, a good wine list focusing on Dalmatian varietals, and a welcome break from the Old Town premium.
Known for: Creative Mediterranean cuisine with Dalmatian wines
Dante Alighieri 4, 20000 Dubrovnik
Azur Restaurant
Dubrovnik's original fusion restaurant in Old Town, blending Asian techniques with the finest Dalmatian ingredients. The menu changes with seasons and market availability, offering dishes like Adriatic tuna with soy-ginger, calamari tempura, and local lamb with Korean-inspired spices.
Known for: Asia-meets-Dalmatia fusion cooking
Pobijana 10, 20000 Dubrovnik
Restaurants by cuisine
Browse picks grouped by cuisine type.
Dalmatian
Bugenvila Restaurant
Set in a lovely garden in Cavtat with bougainvillea-draped walls and sea views, Bugenvila is Cavtat's finest restaurant and one of the best in the region. The menu showcases the best of local Dalmatian ingredients in elegant presentations, with an exceptional local wine list.
Known for: Garden dining with traditional Dalmatian cuisine
Obala Ante Starčevića 9, 20210 Cavtat
Konoba Kolona Korčula
The most beloved konoba in Korčula Town, tucked inside the medieval walls and serving outstanding traditional dishes made from local island produce. The peka dishes and fresh fish have been winning over visitors and locals alike for decades, best enjoyed on the charming stone-walled terrace.
Known for: Traditional Korčula island cooking
Put od Sv. Nikole bb, 20260 Korčula
Restaurant Posat
Situated just outside the Pile Gate entrance to Old Town in a tranquil garden setting, Posat offers a pleasant escape from the crowded marble streets with excellent Dalmatian cuisine at slightly more competitive prices than inside the walls.
Known for: Garden dining near Pile Gate
Uz Posat 1, 20000 Dubrovnik
Konoba Stari Mlin
An old mill converted into a welcoming restaurant near Ploče Gate serving solid traditional Dalmatian dishes. The peka-cooked meats and fish, warm bread, and house wine make this one of the most satisfying complete Dalmatian dining experiences in the city.
Known for: Peka-cooked meats and traditional starters
Od Puča 3, 20000 Dubrovnik
Konoba Vinica Mljet
A charming family-run konoba in the village of Babino Polje on Mljet Island, serving homegrown vegetables, homemade wine, and local fish and lamb dishes. After a day in the national park, this is the authentic Mljet island dining experience.
Known for: Authentic Mljet island home cooking
Babino Polje, 20225 Mljet
Konoba Marco Polo Korčula
A well-regarded family restaurant in Korčula Town serving classic Dalmatian and island dishes in a friendly atmosphere. The riblja plata (mixed fish platter), home-grown salads, and local Pošip and Grk white wines are highlights of a very complete dining experience.
Known for: Island fish and Korčula wines
Šetalište Petra Kanavelića 4, 20260 Korčula
Konoba Roko Orebić
A popular local konoba in Orebić on the Pelješac Peninsula serving honest Dalmatian food with spectacular views across the channel to Korčula Town. The mixed grill, homemade bread, and local Pelješac wines make this a rewarding stop on the Pelješac road trip.
Known for: Traditional Dalmatian grill with Korčula channel views
Trg kralja Tomislava 3, 20250 Orebić
Konoba Šipan
A hidden gem on the largest Elafiti Island of Šipan, serving fresh fish, octopus salad, and local olive oil in a car-free village surrounded by Renaissance noble villas. Best reached by Jadrolinija ferry and represents authentic Elafiti island dining.
Known for: Authentic island dining on car-free Šipan
Luka, Šipan, 20223 Elafiti Islands
Mediterranean
Restaurant Arka Korčula
A waterfront restaurant in Korčula Town with beautiful views of the Pelješac Channel and fresh daily catches. The sun-drenched terrace is the perfect spot to taste local Grk and Pošip white wines alongside simply grilled Adriatic fish.
Known for: Fresh fish and island wines on the waterfront
Šetalište Petra Kanavelića bb, 20260 Korčula
Restaurant Amfora
A popular and reliable restaurant on the Lapad promenade with a large outdoor terrace and extensive menu covering pasta, grilled fish, and meat dishes. Excellent value for the quality and a good choice for groups with varied dietary preferences.
Known for: Good value Mediterranean menu for groups
Obala Stjepana Radića 26, 20000 Dubrovnik
Restaurant Levanat Lapad
A beautiful garden restaurant in Lapad Bay with one of the most romantic settings in Dubrovnik — candlelit among lush Mediterranean plants by the sea. The seafood-focused menu is executed with care, and the terrace is perfect for a special dinner away from Old Town crowds.
Known for: Romantic garden dining in Lapad Bay
Nika i Meda Pucića 15, 20000 Dubrovnik
Restaurant Vapor at Hotel Bellevue
The flagship restaurant at Hotel Bellevue with one of the most dramatic settings in Dubrovnik — a terrace cantilevered over the cliff with views directly down to the hotel's private cove. The menu focuses on contemporary Mediterranean cooking with premium Adriatic seafood.
Known for: Fine dining on a cliff terrace above the Adriatic
Pera Čingrije 7, 20000 Dubrovnik
Seafood
Konoba Ribarnica Mali Ston
The definitive destination for fresh oysters and mussels from the pristine Mali Ston Bay on Pelješac, where the specific salinity of the water creates oysters ranked among Europe's finest. Family-run with tables on the bay shore, it's the most authentic way to taste Pelješac's legendary shellfish.
Known for: Mali Ston oysters direct from the bay
Obala 1, 20232 Mali Ston
Konoba Bota Cavtat
A waterfront seafood restaurant in Cavtat with exceptional fresh oysters and mussels from nearby Pelješac and fish sourced directly from local fishermen. The sunset views across Cavtat Bay from the terrace are as memorable as the food.
Known for: Fresh oysters and seafood with bay views
Zidine 1, 20210 Cavtat
Konoba Polača Mljet
Located in Polače village at the entrance to Mljet National Park, this family restaurant serves fresh fish caught from the surrounding Adriatic, lamb from island pastures, and vegetables from the garden. The perfect reward after a day of cycling and swimming in the national park.
Known for: Fresh island food near Mljet National Park
Polače, 20226 Mljet
Restaurant Batelina Ston
A simple but excellent seafood restaurant near the Ston Walls specializing in the region's famous oysters, mussels, and fresh Adriatic fish. The setting along the Stonski Kanal (Ston Channel) is as scenic as the food is fresh — a true Pelješac highlight.
Known for: Fresh Ston oysters beside the ancient walls
Mali Ston bb, 20230 Ston
Bistro
Lady Pi Pi
A lively, casual Old Town bistro serving hearty Dalmatian fare at mid-range prices with excellent service. Famous for its generous seafood platters, locally sourced octopus, and a well-priced house wine from Pelješac. A great introduction to Dalmatian cuisine for first-timers.
Known for: Generous Dalmatian platters and seafood
Pred Dvorom 3, 20000 Dubrovnik
Pantarul Restaurant
A beloved neighborhood bistro in Lapad serving creative modern Croatian cooking with market-fresh ingredients at very fair prices. Chef Ivan Peric's relaxed approach to Dalmatian classics has earned it a devoted local following and a reputation as one of the best value restaurants in Dubrovnik.
Known for: Modern Croatian cooking at neighborhood prices
Kralja Tomislava 1, 20000 Dubrovnik
Café & Breakfast
Bistro Café Festival
A charming Old Town café popular with locals for morning coffee and pastries, open early enough for pre-wall-walk breakfast. The terrace on a quiet square is a lovely spot for Croatian coffee culture — strong, black, and lingered over.
Known for: Best early morning coffee stop near City Walls
Buniceva Poljana 6, 20000 Dubrovnik
Restaurant Sumica Dubrovnik
A charming breakfast and brunch spot in the Pile area just outside Old Town with a shaded garden terrace. Known for excellent filtered coffee, freshly made pastries, and generous egg dishes — a favorite morning spot for locals commuting past Pile Gate.
Known for: Garden terrace breakfast near Pile Gate
Put od Tabakarije 14, 20000 Dubrovnik
Café
Wanda Bar & Breakfast
Popular with young travelers and digital nomads in Lapad, Wanda offers proper filter coffee, good WiFi, and a solid all-day breakfast menu. One of the few spots in Dubrovnik where you can get a decent flat white rather than just espresso.
Known for: Good coffee and WiFi for digital nomads
Šetalište kralja Zvonimira 36, 20000 Dubrovnik
Café & Brunch
Lucin Kantun
A local favorite in Old Town's quiet backstreets, Lucin Kantun is known for a genuinely good brunch menu and friendly service that feels refreshingly un-touristy for its central location. The outdoor tables on the stone square are hard to leave.
Known for: Relaxed brunch in a quiet Old Town corner
Od Sigurate 8, 20000 Dubrovnik
Café & Light Meals
Café Dubrava
A relaxed café in the Gruž market area serving excellent fresh pastries, sandwiches, and the best burek (savory pastry) in Dubrovnik — a local breakfast staple. Perfect for a cheap, filling morning meal before heading to Old Town.
Known for: Local breakfast pastries and burek
Gruž Market, 20000 Dubrovnik
Croatian
Konoba Bačvara
A rustic konoba in Lapad serving classic Croatian comfort food — čobanac (shepherd's stew), grilled lamb, and slow-cooked bean soups — in a warm, homey atmosphere. Popular with locals who live in Lapad and prefer hearty inland dishes to seafood.
Known for: Hearty Croatian comfort food at local prices
Ulica Vladimira Nazora 29, 20000 Dubrovnik
Gelato & Desserts
Ice cream Perna Dubrovnik
The most beloved ice cream spot in Dubrovnik's Old Town, making traditional Italian-style gelato using local seasonal fruits. The small shop on Stradun draws queues in summer for its Croatian fig, Pelješac cherry, and sea salt caramel flavors.
Known for: Dalmatian fruit gelato on Stradun
Stradun 18, 20000 Dubrovnik
Italian
Spaghetteria Toni
A small, no-frills pasta restaurant near Pile Gate serving generous portions of excellent homemade pasta at the most honest prices you'll find near Old Town. A local institution beloved for its simple blackboard menu and lack of tourist pretension.
Known for: Generous homemade pasta at honest prices
Nikole Boţidarevića 14, 20000 Dubrovnik
Konavle Regional
Konavle Traditional Konoba Čilipi
A genuine rural konoba in Čilipi village in the Konavle Valley serving the traditional food of the Konavle region — prosciutto cured in the valley air, local cheese in olive oil, and slow-cooked meat dishes. Best visited on Sunday after the village folklore performance.
Known for: Konavle Valley regional specialties
Čilipi, 20213 Konavle
Pizza & Dalmatian
Konoba Mea Culpa
Dubrovnik's best pizza restaurant inside Old Town, with thin-crust wood-fired pizzas and generous toppings at reasonable prices for the location. A lifesaver for budget travelers tired of paying high prices for mediocre tourist food — often packed with locals and in-the-know visitors.
Known for: Best value pizza in Old Town
Za Rokom 3, 20000 Dubrovnik
Street Food & Market
Market Gruž Street Food Stalls
The morning market at Gruž Port is where Dubrovnik locals shop for fresh produce, and the surrounding stalls sell affordable street food — burek, grilled sausages, fresh fruit juices, and local pastries. The best budget meal option in the city and a genuine local experience.
Known for: Local morning market with fresh produce and street food
Gruž Market, 20000 Dubrovnik
Traditional Ragusan
Konoba Kopun
Named after the traditional Ragusan capon (kopun) dish, this Old Town restaurant focuses on historical recipes of the Republic of Ragusa. The menu features dishes researched from old cookbooks and manuscripts, offering a unique culinary journey into Dubrovnik's gastronomic past.
Known for: Historical Ragusan recipes
Poljana Ruđera Boškovića 7, 20000 Dubrovnik
Vegetarian
Nishta Restaurant
Dubrovnik's only dedicated vegetarian and vegan restaurant, tucked in a quiet alley near Pile Gate. Nishta (meaning 'nothing' in Croatian, as in 'nothing with meat') serves creative, flavor-packed plant-based dishes drawing on Mediterranean and Asian influences — a genuine rarity in meat-heavy Dalmatia.
Known for: Vegetarian and vegan Dalmatian-influenced cooking
Prijeko bb, 20000 Dubrovnik
Wine Bar & Tapas
D'Vino Wine Bar & Restaurant
Dubrovnik's best wine bar in a cozy Old Town space with an extraordinary selection of Croatian wines by the glass — including rare Pelješac reds, Korčula whites, and Dalmatian orange wines. The tapas-style menu of local cheeses, cured meats, and small plates perfectly complements the extensive wine list.
Known for: Largest selection of Croatian wines by the glass in Dubrovnik
Palmoticeva 4a, 20000 Dubrovnik
Food tours & tastings in Dubrovnik Neretva
Eat your way through Dubrovnik Neretva with a guide.
Browse food experiences in Dubrovnik NeretvaWe may earn a commission from bookings made through these links.
Street food
Local flavours at affordable prices.
Burek
Flaky phyllo pastry filled with cheese (sirnica) or minced meat — the quintessential Balkan fast food and best breakfast option
Find it at: Gruž Market and local bakeries
Fritule
Small traditional Croatian mini-doughnuts flavored with lemon, orange, and rum — sold at markets and festivals
Find it at: Gruž Market and seasonal stalls
Peka-roasted chestnuts
Wood-roasted chestnuts sold from carts in autumn and winter in Old Town — a seasonal Dubrovnik street treat
Find it at: Stradun and Pile Gate area in autumn
Food markets
Where locals shop and graze.
Gruž Morning Market
Dubrovnik's main daily market at the port, selling fresh local produce, fish, flowers, and artisan food products
Hours: 6AM-1PM daily
Old Town Market (Gundulićeva Poljana)
A charming small market in Old Town's main square selling local produce, lavender, olive oil, and local cheeses
Hours: 7AM-noon daily (summer)
Dining etiquette & tips
Navigate the local food scene confidently.
Book ahead for popular Old Town restaurants in July-August — some require reservations weeks in advance
Fish is priced by the kilogram (kg) at most restaurants; ask the weight before ordering
Restaurants near Stradun typically charge 20-30% more for the same quality — explore the side alleys for better value
Tip is not mandatory but 10% is appreciated at sit-down restaurants
Peka dishes must be ordered 24 hours in advance; ask your accommodation to book for you
- Vegetarian
- Limited but improving — Nishta restaurant in Old Town is fully vegetarian; most restaurants offer grilled vegetables, pasta, and salad options
- Halal
- Not widespread; stick to fish and seafood dishes which are available everywhere, or look for international restaurants
- Gluten free
- Ask for 'bez glutena' — fresh grilled fish and vegetables are naturally gluten-free; awareness is improving in tourist areas
Food budget guide
What to expect at different price points.
| Level | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | €5-10 per meal | Burek from markets, pizza at Mea Culpa, pasta at Toni's, supermarket sandwiches |
| Mid-range | €18-35 per meal | Sit-down konoba with fresh fish main and house wine |
| Upscale | €60-120+ per person | Fine dining at Restaurant 360°, Nautika, or Proto with wine pairing |