|
|
 |
|
Best Dining Bets
Valsabbion (Pula): This is one of those restaurants that defies categorization. It is innovative yet traditional; stylish yet not overly so; a mecca of haute cuisine but not at all intimidating. Valsabbion is a temple to Istrian ingredients and Istrian dishes that are a perfect match for its talented chef. Together they make magic.
Mala Hiza (Mackovec): This is one of the finest restaurants in the country. The building itself built in 1887 and once stood outside Zagreb -- it was later reassembled 4km (2.5 miles) outside Cakovic. The menu is full of creative interpretations of regional Croatian cuisine, and the chef will prepare old-time recipes not on the menu if you call ahead with your request. The surrounding garden is gorgeous, and there is a well-protected non-smoking section, a rarity in Croatia.
Zigante (Livade): Behold truffle king Giancarlo Zigante's gourmet palace. Almost everything on the extensive menu here utilizes the truffle, the precious fungus with which Zigante made his fortune. The restaurant is not a gimmick, however: Everything on the menu is expertly prepared and even flirts with creativity.
Gallo (Zagreb): Tucked in the courtyard of a drab building in downtown Zagreb, Gallo is an oasis of fine dining that relies on freshly made pasta, just-caught fish, a strong wine list, and superb service. Both the terrace and the dining room are perfect settings for the beautiful food.
Bitoraj (Fuzine): Bitoraj is a 75-year-old restaurant in a brand new building, which only enhances the dining experience. The menu offers game dishes available nowhere else plus a huge selection of traditional delicacies. From bear and deer ham to Bitoraj's signature dish of young wild boars baked under a lid on an open fire (peka), all dishes utilize the best ingredients the surrounding woods can offer.
Porat (Dubrovnik): The Hilton Imperial's signature restaurant offers a menu that pushes the creativity envelope. The food is Dalmatian fare with complex sauces and side dishes that surprise you. Both the dining room and the piano bar (which serves light snacks) are very sophisticated spaces.
Riblji Restaurant Fosa (Zadar): Fosa has one of the best locations in Croatia. It is right at the water outside the Zadar wall and it has a view and sea breeze that make the food taste that much better. The restaurant is a favorite hangout for locals.
Palaca Paladini (Hvar Town): This restaurant appeals to all five senses: It is set in a beautiful garden with blooming lavender and orange trees frequented by songbirds. It has a great list of wines and it offers superb Dalmatian cuisine that tastes as good as it smells and looks.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
|
|
