Split Restaurants and Dining

(Split, Central Dalmatia, Croatia)

It is easy enough to find somewhere to eat in Split, as the city is quite compact and has plenty of restaurants. Unfortunately, the majority of eateries are simple pizzerias and the food is often unadventurous and a little bit overpriced. However, there are also a growing number of excellent hotel restaurants, along with quaint, family run dining establishments.

You won't have to venture far to eat out in Split, and together with the typical pizzerias and small cafés are some excellent Italian-style restaurants. McDonald's is also in town, and bars and pubs also do food. Dining out at Split Harbour at sundown is hard to beat, for the views and atmosphere.

What to Eat, and Where

Croatian dining is heavily influenced by Italian tastes along the coast, with risotto (a tasty rice dish) being especially popular here. This is frequently served with black calamari or white scampi and is a must for lovers of seafood. Grilled rolls with minced beef or pork, known as 'cevapi', are also a big hit at Split restaurants.

Dalmatian ham is widely available and succulent, often being accompanied by strong cheeses from Pag Island. In addition, the coastal cuisine of Croatia is noted for being organic, while the Croats also produce a variety of tasty beers and wines.

The best place to try some local cuisine in Split is at one of the rustic, family run places in or around the Old Town. These charming dining venues are largely unpretentious and easily vie with the top hotels and restaurants on taste, and on price. You can have a romantic setting overlooking the harbour, or tucked away along a cobbled alley within the Diocletian's Palace complex.