Croatia’s capital city is a paradise for tourists. From places to visit to stays, it’s got everything. But one of the premier reasons to visit Zagreb is the food. The city has a variety of cuisines to offer, from Austrian and Turkish to Hungarian. However, for the best gastronomical experience in the city, the reimagined Croatian cuisine by the city’s chefs is something you should not miss! Here are three restaurants that have put their own unique spin on the country’s national food.
Nav
Chef Tvrtko Sakota’s Nav specializes in repurposing forgotten Croatian dishes with modern techniques, many of which are inspired by the Japanese. Since its inception in 2019, the restaurant has garnered a reputation for exclusivity as it only serves 10 to 12 people every night.
Chef Sakota serves his customers showmanship on a plate over 14 courses. Some of the standout dishes are a nigiri-style dish with an amaranth and buckwheat base, carrots smoked over coals tableside, and specialties from various parts of Croatia.
Theatrium by Filho
With a menu that changes every day, Chef Filip Horvat’s dishes are a delicious treat made from locally sourced ingredients.
One of the exclusive dishes is the savory ice cream sandwich, which Horvat makes from cheese crackers and contains a filling of Pag cheese and Drniš Prosciutto.
Noel
The city’s only Michelin-star restaurant, Noel, is headed by chef Bruno Vokal and has brought some dishes to the table that remind him of his origins. His signature dish of štrukli, which is a mouth-watering ravioli with cottage cheese filling, is a must-have.
His reimagined dessert menu features a classic Croatian layered cake which he has turned into a phyllo pastry with fresh cheese, apples, poppy seeds, and walnuts. Next is a cookie from the island of Korčula, which is served in the form of a shortcrust pastry ball.