6 Cheap And Best Places To Eat In Dubrovnik, Croatia

Bargain gastronomic experiences pepper the walled city of Dubrovnik. Chef and food guide Richard Gruica gives the lowdown on the best cheap eats to savour in the Pearl of the Adriatic.

Dubrovnik draws crowds every year as a Game of Thrones mecca, while history buffs are enthralled by its historic walls and cobblestone streets. Yet its overlooked gastronomic scene lives up to the hype as well and it’s not only budget-busting fine dining either. The curious and adventurous willing to leave the Old Town are particularly rewarded in terms of price and quality.

# Barba

This little nook of a restaurant shares its name with the local word for a ship’s captain, and aims to serve seafood worthy of such a high-ranking officer. Tucked away within the walls of the Old Town, just off Dubrovnik’s main thoroughfare – the Stradun – Barba brings together traditional Dalmatian cuisine, local know-how and modern techniques. The stylish pine-clad space serves up squid, octopus, shrimp and oysters, and counts Gruica among its fans. “This takeaway spot has some great seafood sandwiches,” Gruica says. “Octopus is their claim to fame.”

# Bistro Izvor

Stepping outside the Old Town’s historic walls expands the city’s culinary offerings exponentially. Not least among these offerings is the rustic, peaceful dining experience of Bistro Izvor, which offers Adriatic-Asian fusion fare, from burgers and swordfish to tempura prawns. What’s more, it also boasts a sought-after view of the Ombla River. “This is a lovely spot on the banks of Dubrovnik’s fresh water source,” Gruica says. “Here you can enjoy a meal in a wonderful setting, which is especially nice as an escape from the summer heat.” As a bonus, Bistro Izvor’s location outside the bustling Old Town means fewer crowds.

# Street Food Cezar

If you enjoy Dubrovnik’s rich offering of wine and spirits with enough fervour, you might find yourself with a hankering for greasy street food at strange hours. Cezar’s little shack – painted screaming red with a flabbergasted cartoon woman on the side – has long been a late-night haven for local residents, particularly among students at the nearby school of economics. Gruica claims the joint’s dishes will satisfy your after-hours cravings, particularly suggesting Cezar’s kebabs and burgers.

# Green Garden

Frequent visitors to Dalmatia’s coast discover a culinary scene awash with konobas (taverns), which offer a fairly uniform menu of grilled fish, mixed meats and vegetables. According to Gruica, spots like Green Garden offer a salve for those who crave originality. You can grab a bite at this eatery if you come at the right time — during the summer tourism bump — and can find it in the north of the city, away from the crowds of the Old Town. The outdoor space, shaded by trees, offers an oasis during the summer to lounge and enjoy Croatian craft beers and a vegetarian gyro. “It’s a welcome alternative to the same stuff that can be found all over,” Gruica enthuses.

# Sladoledarna Dubrovnik

Sladoledarna Dubrovnik, right on the main strip, has taken pains to accommodate the local community. Gruica reflects that, while Dubrovnik has quite a few ice cream shops, Sladoledarna has the homespun charm of a neighbourhood institution. “I would be remiss to not mention the lovely ice cream options around the city, with Sladoledarna Dubrovnik being my sentimental favourite.” The family-run operation made a splash by offering regulars and local kids discounts, while Hollywood glitterati like Owen Wilson and Monica Bellucci wait in line alongside everyone else and pay full price.

# Culto

Dubrovnik residents have an affinity for marenda, the light meal sandwiched between breakfast and lunch that’s a signature of the Mediterranean lifestyle. The trick lies in eating just enough to feel somewhat sated, but still have enough room for a full, multi-course lunch. “[Culto] offers a great marenda,” Gruica says. “Or reasonably priced specials catering to the local crowd,” noting its particular popularity among people working in the area and seeking respite during the workday. The clean, modern decor suits a business-like atmosphere without being too stuffy – the kind of place you’ll see a business meeting unfolding over cold cuts and wine or coffee.