If you happen to find yourself in Split, don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in an exceptional culinary experience at ZOI
Perched on the southern wall of Diocletian’s Palace, ZOI offers a rare dining experience where Mediterranean cuisine meets centuries of living history. While many travellers are just discovering it, ZOI has long been an essential part of Split’s fine dining scene – known for its elegant terrace overlooking the Riva, refined service, and dishes rooted in the layered culinary traditions of the Mediterranean.
Restaurant ZOI is located on Split Riva, on the southern wall of Diocletian’s Palace, near the location of the emperor’s former chambers which gives this place a special historical energy for enjoying sophisticated meals, wine, philosophical discussions, and merriment.
Experience a blend of tradition, innovation, and culinary excellence in a unique 1700-year-old setting where history, passion, and food come together. Thus, through the courses, you can feel the flavours of the Mediterranean, the East, and the West, gently intertwined with local traditions.
Just steps from where Emperor Diocletian once hosted banquets in his triclinium, ZOI brings a modern echo of those ancient feasts. Chef Alberto Garcia Perez, trained in some of the world’s top kitchens, leads a menu that blends precision with creativity, offering flavours that surprise without losing their soul. The wine list highlights Croatia’s best alongside timeless international labels, while attentive service ensures each moment flows effortlessly.
Since its inception in 2017, the restaurant has received various consecutive awards: Michelin plate, Galut&Millau, Falstaff, TripAdvisor Travelers Choice, Restaurant Croatica’s 100 best, THA award, and the Tourist Flower, recognizing it as the best restaurant of the year.
The very name ZOI is derived from the ancient Greek word for ‘life’ and pays tribute to the kings, soldiers, merchants, slaves, and all those who have left their mark on the city of Split. Located at the heart of the city’s historic cradle, Restaurant ZOI seeks to tell the story of Split’s rich cultural heritage through its setting, cuisine, service, and countless thoughtful details that reveal themselves throughout your visit.
Open for dinner only, ZOI is intimate by design. A quiet invitation to pause, take in the view, and taste a moment where the past and present meet. If you want to stop the time, this is the place to be.
Photos ZOI
