Croatia Food Guide: 10 Croatian food Must-Eat Restaurants & Street Food Stalls in Istria

June 18, 2020 Vivienne Hutton

Find out what Croatian restaurants to try in Istria including Brokenships Bistro, Bestija, Heritage - Croatian Food, Agroturizam Nezic, Roots Juice & Cocktail Bar, Rocka Konoba, restaurant Artha, Toncic, Konoba-Pizzeria 2. Peron, Monte
Things to do in Istria

10. Monte

Montalbano - Montalbano 75, Rovinj 52210 Croatia European, Croatian, Seafood, Contemporary Dinner Outdoor Seating, Serves Alcohol, Free Wifi, Reservations, Seating, Wine and Beer, Accepts American Express, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service [email protected] +385 52 830 203 http://www.monte.hr
Food
Service
Value
Atmosphere
Overall Ratings

4 based on 1155 reviews

Monte

Reviewed By goodhikers

[Upfront: this is our third or fourth review of Monte, but one for each year (we have two apartments in Rovinj)]Very happy to be back at our favorite restaurant in Rovinj--Monte! We'll just summarize the latest:Service: Glad to see the service is not only great as always, but even improved since the last time. We noticed that there is always an extra person (often the owner!) standing watch at the top of the stairs--if he or she notices something amiss, they are right on it. For us, we just had some extra questions about the delicious menu and my puzzled look brought someone to our table within seconds. We're glad to see the same sommelier there--he guided us through some new local vintages and very happy to explain in depth about the wines.It is very likely the owner will stop by your table--give her honest feedback, she told us how much she appreciates it. If something's wrong, we've seen her make it right immediately.Food and wine: World-class! We almost always go with the multi-course tasting menu with the wine supplement. I've attached a picture of our menu, but will only give a quick review since it since it is different every day depending on the availability of certain meats/fish/vegetables. In general, we can say that every single time was an amazing culinary experience. Monte will surprise you with their combinations! In this case, we loved the John Dory fish mixed with local mussels and potatoes. One staple we love each time is the pulled pork: out of this world! Although the individual courses may look small to American eyes, but this is a several hour meal that would likely fill two or more normal restaurant plates in the USA. Both me and my wife never leave Monte hungry.Be aware if you get the wine supplement (particularly if you are thinking of driving), you will get about six full glasses of different wines and won't be able to operate an auto after this meal. Finally on food: while we don't necessarily like the fact that everyone at the table must order the same tasting menu (blue-seafood, red--meat and seafood), Monte makes an exception for vegetarian/vegan with a "green" menu or people with particular food allergies. We understand why: the entire evening watching the staff is much like watching a symphony orchestra--they flow through each of the courses around the room in perfect synchronicity. Even that is beautiful to watch. But if you are adamant about NOT doing the full tasting menu, there is an alternative--separate individual course ordering (four courses) is possible but somewhat difficult since the choices are so varied, i.e. it is pretty difficult to know how they will all fit together. We suggest sticking with the full tasting menu--we've never been disappointed.Ambiance:Great for a romantic dinner or special holiday (for us-- our wedding anniversary). Be prepared to walk up the hill, to its location near the St. Euphemia Church, so older guests may want to start early.Summary:A Michelin One Star Restaurant that deserves its second star soon!

9. Konoba-Pizzeria 2. Peron

Cerovlje 6, Cerovlje 52402 Croatia Steakhouse, Pizza, Mediterranean, Barbecue, European, Croatian Lunch, Dinner, Late Night, Drinks Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Street Parking, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Wine and Beer, Accepts American Express, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Digital Payments, Free Wifi, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Servic [email protected] +385 52 684 099 https://www.facebook.com/Konoba-2-Peron-Cerovlje-1776633185902164/
Food
Service
Value
Overall Ratings

4 based on 132 reviews

Konoba-Pizzeria 2. Peron

Trattoria – pizzeria 2. PERON is situated in the heart of Istria, in Cerovlje, a small town which developed after the railway construction throughout Istria in the end of 19th century. All our local food is offered and made specificaly following our grand

Reviewed By MRAinsworth15

Drove past this restaurant a few times en route to our villa without noticing it but looks very modern and quaint. Whole family went there for a meal and we were so glad we did. The staff were welcoming and friendly. The menu has English underneath so easy to ascertain what you want (highly recommend the steaks).There were children’s food options on the menu which was great for our two children. The food was good sized portions and extremely tasty. The meat is locally sourced and the desserts are all homemade, even the ice cream. Will be back again before we leave.Thank you very much for the nice review. We are so happy you enjoyed your visit at 2. PERON. All the best!

8. Toncic

Chabrnica 42 Čabarnica 42, Zrenj, Oprtalj 52460 Croatia Mediterranean, Croatian, European Lunch, Dinner Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Parking Available, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Free Wifi, Table Service +385 91 206 0512 http://www.agroturizam-toncic.com
Food
Service
Value
Atmosphere
Overall Ratings

5 based on 258 reviews

Toncic

Reviewed By 977matejab

We were on our drive through Istria on a Friday afternoon in the last Friday in August, craving for a special Istrian meat, nicely grilled and a good glass of red Istrian wine.Well, you have to be very patient while driving to Toncic. It's almost 30 min drive from the main road, but it's worth it, especially if you like the Tuscany scenery. That is what you'll find on the tiny road.This family- owned local "konoba" overlooks the Mirna valley and eating outside on the terrace was great.The madame of the house found out we want good steak and after having social ham and cheese plate as a starter, we got a plate of medium-done grilled beef....mmmm. the picture tells it all. Perfect. We'll come back.

7. restaurant Artha

J Surana 10, Porec 52460 Croatia Mediterranean, European, Croatian Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, Late Night Takeout, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Serves Alcohol, Free Wifi, Table Service +385 52 435 495 http://www.facebook.com/bistroartha
Food
Service
Value
Atmosphere
Overall Ratings

4 based on 536 reviews

restaurant Artha

Reviewed By Daniel C

We visited as a family of four adults and a baby one evening. The place filled up quickly so arriving early is advisable.The food is vegetarian with vegan options, but all options were delicious! Staff were friendly and food was served quickly. Even though all of us are usually meat eaters we all found the food delicious and filling. I would recommend the naan bread for starter and any pasta dish.

6. Rocka Konoba

Roc 14/1, Roc 52425 Croatia Croatian, Central European, Mediterranean, European Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, Drinks Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Table Service [email protected] +385 91 595 7331 http://www.facebook.com/rockakonoba
Food
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Overall Ratings

5 based on 177 reviews

Rocka Konoba

Rocka Konoba is runned & owned by family Stefanovic with extensive experience in the hospitality & gastronomy, we will be on your disposal for you to have great service in the Rocka Konoba. We offer authentic Istrian cuisine like Fuzi, Gnocchi or Ravioli,

Reviewed By MZperX

We visited this restaurant after a brief excursion to two scenic old villages, Roč and Hum. Both are strongly recommended hidden gems of the Istria.Rocka Konoba is a great restaurant with a lovely environment, family atmosphere, friendly service and most important of all excellent food. The truffle and home made pasta were heavenly, and our kids loved the gnocchi with goulash and the pilotée. Strongly recommended for everyone.

5. Roots Juice & Cocktail Bar

Tomiceva 5, Zagreb 10000 Croatia Croatian, Bar, Cafe, Pub, Healthy, Wine Bar Drinks, Breakfast, Brunch, Late Night Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Free Wifi, Accepts Credit Cards, Buffet, Wine and Beer [email protected] +385 98 322 385 https://www.facebook.com/roots.zagreb/
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5 based on 66 reviews

Roots Juice & Cocktail Bar

Roots bar has a unique concept - it is a juice bar until 4pm, and then it transforms into a cocktail bar.

Reviewed By navangirl86

I would highly recommend roots and juice if you enjoy cocktails. We tried several, each cocktail was delicious and well priced for the quality of ingredients used. The young waiter who served us was very friendly and had a great knowledge of the cocktails available. It is obvious that whoever is making the cocktails knows what they are doing.Thank you for your visit and amazing review, it's a great honour that you speak so highly of our cocktails and staff - we will try our best to keep the quality high and prices moderate.

4. Agroturizam Nezic

Zrenj 11 Just in front of the church in Zrenj, Oprtalj 52460 Croatia Italian, European, Croatian Dinner, Drinks, Lunch Takeout, Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Parking Available, Street Parking, Serves Alcohol, Cash Only, Free Wifi, Table Service, Highchairs Available [email protected] +385 52 644 285
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Overall Ratings

5 based on 178 reviews

Agroturizam Nezic

We are a small family restaurant. We offer tipical istrian dishes. There is place for up to 50 person, so we are a perfect place for your special events or just for normal sunday lunch with friends or family. At our place you can taste the food tipical fo

Reviewed By Lorena B

This restaurant is excellent ....the food is very tasty. Everything was prepared with fresh truffles and local ingredients. You will not find many places in Istria where you can eat better truffle dishes with a normal price. We will come back for sure . Highly recommendation.

3. Heritage - Croatian Food

Petrinjska Ulica 14, Zagreb 10000 Croatia Mediterranean, Street Food, Croatian, Deli Lunch, Dinner, Brunch Outdoor Seating, Seating, Serves Alcohol, Wine and Beer, Accepts American Express, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Free Wifi, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service [email protected] http://www.facebook.com/heritagecroatianfood/
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5 based on 747 reviews

Heritage - Croatian Food

Few useful tips: Because of the size of our place, we don’t recommend it to families and groups of more than 3 people. We work on a first-come, first-served basis as our place is very small and with limited number of high chairs. We don't have a toilet! W

Reviewed By Janet T

We went here based on reviews. Very small place seats 4 on counter inside and weather permitting 8 outside on two tables. The menu is similar to tapas. We tried several plates. The server explained thoroughly the plate, as far as where ingredients were from and differences in the oils. Such a great little place for a quick bite.

10 Things to Do in Istria That You Shouldn't Miss

2. Bestija

Masarykova ulica 11/1 U dvoriÅ¡tu / In the backyard, Zagreb 10000 Croatia European, Croatian, Mediterranean Lunch, Dinner, Drinks Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Free Wifi, Table Service, Takeout, Highchairs Available, Full Bar, Wine and Beer, Accepts Credit Cards [email protected] +385 91 324 0120 http://www.facebook.com/bestijazagreb/
Food
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Overall Ratings

5 based on 89 reviews

Bestija

Fiery & creative takes on Croatian cuisine in a casual bistro. Lunch, dinner. Location: Masarykova 11, in the backyard.

Reviewed By strangersblog

Tucked into a residential alley, Bestija is hard to find but worth it. Charming little place with some beautiful plates coming out of the tiny kitchen. Join the hip young locals for seasonal fresh dishes like sausage stuffed pepper. My grilled Adriatic fish was seriously undercooked, as in raw, but when I asked the waiter he said it was intentional. Celery soup with pumpkin oil was tasty but should be served with some crunchy bread. Would be 5 stars with just a little more attention to taste as well as the presentation and attitude. Croatian wine and local craft beer pair well with the creative cooking and atmosphere.

Top 10 restaurants in Istria, Croatia

1. Brokenships Bistro

Katarinin trg 3 Gornji grad / Upper Town, Zagreb 10000 Croatia European, Croatian Lunch, Dinner, Brunch Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Table Service, Serves Alcohol, Wine and Beer, Accepts Credit Cards [email protected] +385 1 2035 906 http://www.brokenshipsbistro.com
Food
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Overall Ratings

4 based on 37 reviews

Brokenships Bistro

Brokenships Bistro is the culinary affiliate of the world-renowned Museum of Broken Relationships, situated in the Kulmer Palace, on a scenic square of the Upper Town, a 5-minute walk from the main square. Much more than a playful take on the universally

Reviewed By Anney F

Our group of three enjoyed a terrific meal here. We selected a number of dishes to share, and were pleasantly surprised when they came individuallly plated. The menu was innovative, and changes regularly. Service was friendly and knowledgeable. Prices are very reasonable. Booking required, especially on weekends.

Where to eat European food in Istria: The Best Restaurants and Bars

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