When you think of the Mediterranean utopia of Croatia, not many people will expect there to be some incredible Michelin star restaurants in the coastal paradise. Croatia not only offers a feast for the eyes but for the tastebuds too.
These Michelin star restaurants in Croatia offer Mediterranean cuisine at its best, making use of all the organic produce, and of course, the plentiful variety of freshly caught seafood. The coastal paradise of Croatia pairs the world’s finest ingredients with some of the best Michelin star chefs in Europe, resulting in the culinary adventure of a lifetime.
Join us as we explore the Michelin star restaurants Dubrovnik and the rest of Croatia has to offer.
Monte – 1 Star
Monte made waves as the first Michelin star restaurant Croatia has to offer, and it’s easy to see why. Chef Danijel Dekic curated a theatrical masterpiece when it came to his tasting menu, with dishes packed full of flavour and smart and undoubtedly creative techniques. The Monte restaurant is situated in the heart of the Rovinj square, looking out onto one of the historical churches of the gorgeous and quaint town.
The entryway to Monte looks like something out of a fairytale – the cobblestone pathway leads to a door in the vine-covered wall, inviting you to a magical experience. The tasting menu features a plethora of seasonal ingredients, where you get to choose between a green, red or blue menu – each with defining techniques, but you are welcome to mix and match.
Seafood is always a must-try in Croatia and some of the incredible dishes at Monte include tuna fish gnocchi with beetroot and horseradish or the medley of ocean delights that include clams scallops and mussels cooked in nectarine and saffron – a dish reminiscent of the warm sunshine of the Mediterranean coast. The average price for this fine dining feast ranges from around 95-129 pounds per person.
Address: Montalbano 75, Rovinj, 52210, Croatia
Draga di Lovrana – 1 Star
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The beauty of classical coastal excellence inspired by the cuisine of Mediterranean Europe meets a symphony of innovative techniques and flair at Draga di Lovrana. At this Michelin star restaurant in Croatia, you can enjoy Chef Tomšić Zdravko’s take on popular dishes like foie gras, seared scallops and mussels – as he adds his creative and contemporary finesse to each element.
Dishes like Ceviche with orange emulsion and an earthy black crumb jammed with flavours of the sea, or if you’re in the mood for something more hearty; the deer rump cooked to perfection and served with soft carrots and pomegranate jus is perfect for dinner time satisfaction. The reasonable price of 50-80 pounds per person will get you some of the finest food in the world.
Address: Lovranska Draga 1, Lovran, 51415, Croatia
Alfred Keller – 1 Star
The great thing about dining in the finest restaurants in Croatia is that you don’t have to choose between a breathtaking view or immaculate food. Alfred Keller is the perfect example of this stellar combination. Dine al fresco under the starlit sky on the balcony overlooking the Čikat bay, while enjoying simple and elegant creations by Chef Michel Gollancz.
As the golden sun sets beyond the horizon of the still blue waters of the bay, a feast of food inspired by the superior produce and seafood of Croatia awaits. The four-course tasting menu might start with something like Scampi carpaccio with Thai mint salsa and end with rich and delectable bbq short ribs spiced with paprika – each with their own perfect wine pairing. Prices range between 70 and 100 pounds per person.
Address: Čikat 16, Mali Lošinj, 51550, Croatia
Nebo- Rijeka – 1 Star
With the tourist-heavy climate of the Croatian coasts, many holidaymakers may find it difficult to experience a more authentic experience of the culture behind the great cuisine, with restaurants and hotels attempting to cater to a larger crowd. Nebo- Rijeka has taken the opposite approach, and has added pride and sophistication to the traditional dishes of Croatia, and takes its guests on a culinary journey throughout history.
The location is just as stunning as the intricate and artful dishes, with a view of the sea and warm breeze keeping you in a pleasurable trance. Chef Deni Srdoč guides you through a 7 or 11-course menu – each featuring traditional dishes with a modern twist. Octopus glazed with beetroot and served with chickpeas, wild garlic and trout, and crispy tempura hake with nasturtium aioli are some dishes that explore traditional flavours with a contemporary take.
Address: Opatijska ulica 9, Rijeka, 51000, Croatia
Tavern Boškinac – 1 Star
The homely charm of Tavern Boškinac is what attracts the eager clientele inland and away from the sea, to experience a cottage-like interior and a terrace shaded by lush trees. The menu features items baked and grilled in accordance with Mediterranean traditions, harmonized with the finest olive oil and flaky sea salt.
The sea plate for two takes inspiration from the much loved “antipasti” of the neighbouring coasts, compromising of squid, octopus, cod, tuna, anchovies and shrimp grilled to perfection and served with sauces with satisfying garlicky-salty delight. For mains, try the baked lamb for a rich and hearty meal guaranteed to have you reminiscing for more. Every meal varies in cost, and because there isn’t a set menu it’s up to you regarding how much you want to spend, but the average cost will be between 70 to 120 pounds per person.
Address: Škopaljska Ulica 220, Novalja, 53291, Croatia
Agli Amici Rovinj – 1 Star
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The tasting menu at Agli Amici Rovinj will take you pleasantly by surprise as they combine familiar flavours with unlikely pairings and expert techniques. The wine pairing is an absolute must, and although optional, the tasting menu (in participation of the whole table) is a flavour journey perfectly curated to magnify the excellence of Mediterranean cuisine.
The high-end atmosphere provided by the terrace’s outlook onto the marina is what sets Agli Amici apart from other Michelin star restaurants in Croatia. First impressions will foretell the luxurious experience to be had, with crisp white tablecloths and silverware polished to perfection, Agli Amici is where you’d go for a more formal dining ambience – an excuse to dress up during your beach holiday.
The flavour combinations of liquorice, asparagus and seaweed may seem unpredictable to some, but Agli Amici skillfully pairs ingredients to create magical harmonies of sophisticated flavours. Other dishes include lamb with fennel, sheep ricotta, black truffles and morels. Or in keeping with the “Italian” theme; tortellini with scallop and brown butter.
Address: Šetalište Vijeća Europe 1-2, Rovinj, 52210, Croatia
Croatia is undoubtedly a holiday destination that is superior to most, with reasonable prices and breathtaking scenery – these Michelin star restaurants of Croatia are an absolute must-try on your next excursion or the next addition to your holiday bucket list.
Sebastian is a former hedge fund trader who worked only to indulge his true passion – food.
He has dined at over 240 Michelin-starred restaurants around the world, savoring culinary masterpieces and understanding the stories behind them. He now advises restaurants on menu design, decor and holistic diner experience.