You’ve seen the sights and landmarks of Zagreb; it’s time to move to another journey, a delicious one at that – food. To get to know a city well and quickly, eat your way through it. As you explore, one plate at a time, you’ll find hints of Austro-Hungarian influence, Mediterranean warmth and a range of global influences. 

For a first-time visitor, a roam around Dolac is a great intro to the food scene. At the market, the red umbrellas shade farmers selling creamy cheeses, honey jars sparkle like amber and baskets overflow with the season’s fruit. Zagreb’s fresh-food heartbeat, it’s where the rhythm of daily life reveals itself, beating to the tune of tradition.

From the market, the scent trail carries you into Zagreb’s countless bistros, konobe (taverns) and modern restaurants. A hearty portion of štrukli offers comfort, as soft pastry cradles fresh cheese in a dish that tastes like home. In the next stop, a chef reimagines Zagorje classics with a playful twist, pairing them with crisp wines from nearby hills. 

In Zagreb, food has always been a bridge between people. A coffee on Tkalčićeva lasts longer than perhaps it should. Dinner can stretch across courses – wild game from the forests, river fish dressed with herbs or delicate cakes that remind you of Vienna yet showcase the undeniably Croatian twist.

Slated for October 17-26 this year, Restaurant Week is your golden ticket to taste the city’s culinary spectrum. Taking place twice a year, this is when chefs prepare special menus, a standout chance for locals to revisit beloved classics and for visitors to taste the many layers of a city.

From Asian and Italian to Dalmatian and Lebanese, three-course lunch and dinner meals served at participating restaurants are a steal. It’s the perfect time to eat your way through the rich culture of Zagreb, one bite at a time.