All aspects of tourism in modern-day Split, gastronomy included, have seen a shift towards high-end customers who often sail to Split
Split has stopped being a transit centre a long time ago, becoming one of the hottest spots in the Adriatic, among others, for many yachts that start and end their sailing trips here. The gastronomy in Split has lagged behind the rapid development of tourism in the city, and one of the reasons for this is the fact that most visitors still prefer the fast-food option.
Unveiling Split’s Stylish Dining Destinations
Even though some traditional restaurants in Split have survived, Split currently has a range of diverse and contemporary food options at places that didn’t even exist a decade ago. Even though a book could easily be written on the ‘new wave’ of Split’s gastronomy, we have selected six excellent restaurants that both locals and foreign yachtsmen can treat their palates to.
Bokeria
It would be a bad idea to miss the place that offers good contemporary Mediterranean food, Bokeria, where chef Željka Bogdan prepares dishes using fresh ingredients from nearby farmer’s markets or the fish market.
Although they have been among top restaurants for years, they hired additional staff this year to be able to give their guests an even tastier way to start the day.
When it comes to nights, they made sure that the nights were comfortable by stepping up their Croatian wine game, which now includes more than 150 wines. Another new addition is the cocktail list with a base, premium and ultra premium spirit list.
ZOI
ZOI is located on Split Riva, on the southern wall of Diocletian’s Palace, near the location of the emperor’s former chambers. The emperor’s dining room used to be located right next to the restaurant, which gives this place a special historical energy for enjoying sophisticated meals, wine, philosophical discussions, and merriment.
ZOI is a place to explore a world of senses where chef Roko Nikolić, inspired by history and tradition, transforms forgotten tales into vibrant notes of contemporary cuisine. In a unique 1700-year-old setting music, conversations and the city sounds melt perfectly together while comfortably lounged on the terrace, with a glass of rare wine, and gentle summer breeze.
Makarun
Leaning against the walls of Diocletian’s Palace, Makarun’s terrace is an oasis away from the crowds in the centre of Split. Tucked away behind the Milesi mansion and a 70-year old fig tree, it provides the perfect setting for enjoying Mediterranean cuisine inspired by seasonal ingredients from their own organic garden.
There’s also a private terrace, where only a selected few can savour the view while enjoying an unforgettable dining experience that Makarun’s chef and sommelier will take you through. Honouring traditional local flavours, the food becomes art in Makarun, with great wine and impeccable service, all aimed at putting a smile on the customer’s face.
Dvor
Dvor is a restaurant where a good recipe is treasured, and in their case, the recipe is very simple: a modern take on traditional dishes, focusing on fish-based dishes in the summer. There was no need for major changes when it comes to chef Hrvoje Zirojević’s cooking, but the restaurant will welcome the 2024 season with an updated interior decoration.
In addition to the gregada and ceviche that you absolutely have to taste, some dishes typically reserved for winter, such as cod in bianco, are also worth trying.
A good wine list created by Vedran Cota and pastries made by pastry chef Ivana Bralić accompanied by any of the views from the different levels of this restaurant by the sea are more than enough for undisturbed enjoyment of some of the best things that Split has to offer.
Fantažija
As you enter this small restaurant, situated right next to the Diocletian’s palace, you are greeted by décor that immediately signals you’ve arrived at a place that tries to revive the unapologetic, brave, yet welcoming feel of old Dalmatian taverns in an unique and modern way. You can feel the same aproach reflected in the menu which is small yet mastered.
Each meal is well thought through and offering the best version of Dalmatia’s most popular meals with the artistic side of modern cuisines. The main focus of the wine selection is to uncover hidden Dalmatian gems and present them to the wider public. However, just like in the taverns of old, the journey rarely ends there. After a nice dinner you would be amiss not to have a taste of Croatia’s favorite spirit – rakija.
Zrno soli
Don’t be fooled by the fact that Branimir Prnjak is only 24 years old, there is a reason that he is the chef at Zrno soli, arguably the best seafood restaurant in Split. Fresh ingredients, creative cooking and a superb wine list containing some of the best wines in the country are just some of the few reasons why Zrno soli made our list.
Owner Ivo Vrdoljak assured us that the restaurant would start having some exclusive, world-class options in the spring, but he didn’t want to reveal too much about it before the launch. In the meantime, you can savour traditional dishes with a modern twist, some of which, such as the ‘Must-try Risotto’, have become famous outside the borders of Croatia. And since excellent food and great wine are paired with a view of the ACI Marina, where the restaurant is located, it’s easy to see why Zrno soli gets nothing but praise.
Photos Bokeria, Fantažija, Makarun, ZOI, Zrno soli & Dvor
