Eat Like a Local
Dear traveller, you have found yourself in our lovely capital. Without a doubt, you are already overwhelmed with the friendliness of the locals, the beauty of the city and the stories that have shaped our beloved Zagreb in what it is today. So many information and dynamics you embraced have worked up your appetite. It is time to familiarise yourself with the local cuisine. Where to eat you ask yourself? I will gladly share this 'know-how' with you. Since you are now a traveller in need, I will be your friend indeed. In addition, as you are a newcomer in the city, I will focus on the restaurants in the strict town centre. When it comes to food, as a proud Croatian son, I always have a few preconditions that need to be met in order to satisfy my taste - the restaurant needs to use local produce, the staff needs to be super friendly with a winning smile and the portions of the food served need to be big and delicious. When you have the synergy of all mentioned, you are ready for a fabulous Croatian meal. Just keep in mind that Zagreb is a big melting pot of different cuisines. In order to feel like a local, you have to try the combination of them all. Without further ado, I present you my 3 top spots where to eat like a local!
Image credit: Konoba Didov san Facebook page
1) DIDOV SAN
After you feast on the beauties of the medieval nucleus of Zagreb - the historical Upper town, it is time to get lost in one of the charming side alleys. Just a couple of minutes of walk from the most frequently sent postcard from Zagreb – Saint Mark's church - you will find Didov san (Grandpa's dream) restaurant. Start with the historical and architectural beauties of our metropolis and finalise the experience with a tasty meal. The story of this establishment begins with a grandfather that had a dream to open a restaurant with traditional specialities of Dalmatian Zagora cuisine. The dream became a reality and reality turned into one of my favourite restaurants in Zagreb. They serve from a variety of exotic dishes like snails, frogs and eels to proper meat dishes I personally prefer. Whatever you try, you will be extremely satisfied, but do not skip Soparnik. It tastes like it's from heaven, only sweeter. Be part of the dream, and a richness of flavour and a full tummy are guaranteed.
2) STARI FIJAKER
Just a whisk away from the shortest funicular in the world and the oldest public transportation of Zagreb, at the place where the old 13th-century gates to the Upper town existed, our next winner stands proudly. To awaken your interest, it suffices to say that this is the first restaurant that got a certificate as an authentic traditional Croatian cuisine restaurant. Stari Fijaker (Old carriage) is a place where you can try delicious Zagrebian specialities. Inside you can enjoy the beautiful photos of old Zagreb and of course exquisite food. Here you will find all the local dishes accustomed to a Sunday lunch of a Zagrebian family. Try as much as you can and most definitely go for Strukla. This cheese abundant pastry will make you feel invincible and will put a big smile on your face. Satisfaction and joy are guaranteed!
Image credit: Mundoaka street food Facebook page
3) MUNDOAKA STREET FOOD
When your paths lead you to the focal point of Zagreb – the Main Square - once again you are ready for a treat. Just a short stroll away from our most popular viceroy on a horse, you will find something different. As our capital started to live with full lungs and develop rapidly, we got the same manifestation through food. Mundoaka street food will show you the fusion cuisine. They use best local ingredients and combine it with international modern techniques of preparation. They pride themselves in serving your food with heart and soul. This small food joint has a different approach to traditional Zagreb culinary offer. Do not make a mistake and miss the tasty ribs or pastry they offer. Feel hip in a casual atmosphere, guaranteed.
Did I manage to awaken your craving for food? What are you waiting for? Hop into one of the restaurants mentioned and say to the waiters that you are hungry. They will recommend something that you will surely enjoy and take care of you. But be aware of something I like to call 'travel calories'. They are non-existing and imaginary, my dear traveller. This means that while travelling you can go all in without any worries. Same applies for 'travel money'. Go to #loveZagreb for even more food it offers. Have a good meal ;)
Header image credit: Author: Gordana Sermek, Source: Stari fijaker Facebook page
Author: Filip Donadic