Updated in 2025, originally published in August 2017
To eat well in Zagreb is an easy task. Burgers are organic, sandwiches are hearty and healthy.
The flavors of Zagreb continues to rise in refinement, elevating to accommodate floods of tourists on their way to the southern parts of Croatia. One thing you can count on when eating out in this capital, is the natural and fresh ingredients most restaurants pride themselves on. Burgers are organic, sandwiches are hearty and healthy. Here are our top picks for where you should explore your taste buds:
1. Pod Zidom Bistro
Pod zidom 5, Zagreb 10000, Croacia (map, website)
INSTAGRAM @podzidom_bistroThis Michelin-recommended bistro, located in the heart of Zagreb yet pleasantly removed from the urban rush, offers a perfect introduction to Croatian cuisine. Its menu is seasonal, with ingredients purchased daily at the nearby Dolac market. The true star of Pod Zidom Bistro, however, is its wine list, which showcases an impressive diversity of terroirs and grape varieties.
2. Submarine Burger
Frankopanska ul. 11, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia (map, website)
Healthy and tasty! These burgers are no joke. There are several locations in Zagreb, and they make the perfect breaks from sightseeing. The interior of the restaurant is industrial with large outdoor terrace as well. Each burger is made from organic ingredients without additives, and the beef is incredibly fresh paired with local vegetables that come from all regions in Croatia.
Situated across from Zagreb Cathedral is Capuciner, which also has a sister restaurant next door that serves steak & grill. This is often recommended by locals since it’s close to most touristic sites and it offers a wide variety of pizzas and pastas. With a nice glass of cold Ožujsko beer, there’s nothing better on a hot summer day.
Zagreb’s legendary 5-star Esplanade Hotel is home to Le Bistro Restaurant featuring its first female chef Ana Grgić who combines classic French cuisine with Croatian tastes. You can find traditional French influences in dishes including: cote du boeuf and tuna tartar. Not to be missed on the menu is the famous “Esplanade Strukli” – a conventional Croatian pastry covered in sizzling over-baked cottage cheese concealed with cream. You can eat it plain for a savory kick, or drizzle sugar on top to indulge it as a typical local dessert.
In the bustling Dolac Market, there’s a hole-in-the-wall joint that serves up great beer and fried fish. If you want a taste of Dalmatian style casual cuisine with a glass of cold Croatian beer, this is your spot! Whether they’re grilled or fried, the seafood is fresh to the core.
