Restaurants in Zadar
From harbourside seafood to Dalmatian konobas — the best places to eat in Zadar
Where to Eat in Zadar
Zadar's food scene reflects its position as a crossroads of Dalmatian, Italian, and Mediterranean culinary traditions. The city benefits from exceptional raw ingredients — fresh fish and seafood from the Adriatic, olive oil from the surrounding countryside, local cheeses, and produce from the nearby islands. Zadar is also the birthplace of Maraschino, the famous cherry liqueur that has been produced here since the 16th century.
Whether you are after an elegant tasting menu overlooking the harbour, a simple plate of grilled squid in a family-run konoba, or sunset cocktails on the old town walls, Zadar delivers. Here is our guide to the best restaurants, local dishes, and dining tips.
Best Restaurants by Type
Fine Dining
Zadar's fine dining scene has flourished in recent years, with talented chefs combining Dalmatian traditions with modern techniques. These restaurants offer creative tasting menus, exceptional wine lists, and beautiful settings within the old town walls.
Pet Bunara
Elegant dining on Five Wells Square with creative Dalmatian tasting menus
Fosa
Harbourside fine dining in a stunning location by the old city walls
Kastel
Refined Mediterranean cuisine in a historic boutique hotel setting
Seafood
Zadar's position on the Adriatic coast means exceptionally fresh seafood arrives at the harbour daily. From simply grilled whole fish to elaborate seafood platters, the city's restaurants make the most of the daily catch from the Zadar Channel and surrounding islands.
Kornat
Long-established seafood institution known for the freshest fish in Zadar
Bruschetta
Popular spot combining Italian-Dalmatian flavours with excellent seafood
Proto
Traditional fish restaurant with harbour views and generous portions
Dalmatian Traditional
Dalmatian cuisine is hearty, flavourful, and deeply rooted in the land and sea. Traditional konobas in Zadar serve slow-cooked peka dishes, grilled meats, handmade pasta, and locally produced olive oil and wine in atmospheric stone-walled settings.
Stari Grad
Charming old town konoba with classic Dalmatian dishes and local wines
Trattoria Canzona
Family-run restaurant with homemade pasta and seasonal specialities
Na Po Ure
Hidden gem serving generous portions of traditional Dalmatian fare
Wine Bars
Croatia's wine scene is booming, and Zadar is an excellent place to explore it. The city's wine bars offer carefully curated selections of Dalmatian wines alongside local cheese, charcuterie, and small plates — perfect for a relaxed evening.
Wine & Cheese Bar Bastion
Atmospheric wine bar with an excellent Croatian wine selection and local cheeses
Garden Lounge
Stylish waterfront bar with cocktails, wines, and a vibrant atmosphere
Kult Caffe
Popular local spot combining good wines with a lively social scene
Cafes & Casual
Zadar's cafe culture revolves around long coffees on sunny terraces, people-watching along Kalelarga, and casual bites in the old town. From historic institutions to modern hangouts, the city has a cafe for every mood.
Caffe Bar Central
Iconic cafe on the main square, a Zadar institution for morning coffee
Arsenal
Cultural venue and cafe in a beautifully restored 18th-century arsenal building
The Garden
Famous rooftop bar on the old town walls with stunning sunset views
Must-Try Zadar Dishes
Pasticada
A rich, slow-cooked beef stew marinated in wine, vinegar, and dried fruits, served with homemade gnocchi. One of the most celebrated dishes in all of Dalmatia.
Grilled Squid
Fresh Adriatic squid simply grilled with olive oil, garlic, and parsley. Often served with Swiss chard and potatoes — a Dalmatian classic at its finest.
Peka
Meat or seafood slow-cooked under a bell-shaped lid (peka) covered with hot embers, trapping in all the flavours. Typically lamb, veal, or octopus with vegetables.
Soparnik
A traditional Dalmatian flatbread filled with Swiss chard, onion, and olive oil. Originally from the Poljica region, it is now enjoyed across the coast as a beloved snack.
Maraschino Desserts
Zadar is the birthplace of Maraschino cherry liqueur. Local pastry chefs incorporate it into cakes, chocolates, and desserts — a uniquely Zadar culinary experience.
Fresh Oysters from Nin
The shallow waters near Nin, just outside Zadar, produce delicious oysters. Enjoy them freshly shucked with a squeeze of lemon and a glass of local white wine.
Dining Tips for Zadar
Book ahead in summer. Zadar's best restaurants fill up fast from June to September, especially Fosa and Pet Bunara. Reserve at least a few days in advance for dinner.
Try peka — but order in advance. Peka (meat or seafood slow-cooked under a bell lid) takes at least two hours to prepare. Most restaurants require you to order it ahead, so call earlier in the day or the night before.
Visit the morning market. The green market (Trznica) near the old town is a Zadar institution. Browse local cheese, olive oil, dried figs, and produce from the islands.
Drink Maraschino. Zadar is the birthplace of this famous cherry liqueur. Order it as a digestif after dinner or try it in a cocktail at one of the old town bars.
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