A guide to the best restaurants in Rovinj

Rovinj is a beautiful destination, situated on Croatia‘s Istrian peninsula, that’s fast gaining an enviable reputation for the quality of its gastronomy. Many restaurants are set within Rovinj’s ancient cobbled streets offering extraordinarily intricate architecture, as well as by the port overlooking the Mediterranean. From local wines and truffles to fantastic seafood and tasty Croatian produce, this town’s restaurants are begging to be explored.

Stunning views at La Puntulina

You can sit on the restaurant’s outside terrace and then enjoy a tasty fine dining experience at La Puntulina. Seafood is a house speciality and the carpaccio is excellent, or you can always sample the steaks on the menu as well as some truly spectacular puddings. The cheesecake is said to be extraordinary.

Seafood splendour at Orca

Luscious lobster, bouillabaisse and seabass are just some of the treats that feature at the rustic Orca restaurant, which is just outside of the centre of Rovinj. Istrian sausages, as well as a local ham or ‘ombolo’ are other temptations, and the delights don’t stop here. Veal, lamb and steak are all available as well as some tasty local truffles.

Generous portions at Cocaletto

A traditional Croatian inn is a must-visit during Croatia holidays – and that’s exactly what you’ll find once you enter the threshold of Cocaletto. With an interior decorated with stone arches and tables covered with starched white tablecloths, the stage is set to enjoy some wonderful local dishes. Veal escalopes sit alongside seafood risottos on the menu.

Genuine Istrian cuisine at Barbo Danilo

This is the place to sample traditional Istrian cooking with a modern twist. There’s beautifully delicate smoked sea bream mousse, or you could explore produce from the land and try duck breast on a saffron risotto. This is a restaurant where you’re encouraged to sample the new, like the gorgonzola ice-cream with pears, which is unusually delicious.

Quayside dining at Rio Bar

Fresh sardines are always delicious and those at Rio Bar are very fresh and tasty. Serving local wines and delicious food, this is a wonderful venue for both people watching and enjoying a tasty meal.

Pizza pleasures at Pizzeria da Sergio

Unsurprisingly, pizzas are the name of the game at Pizzeria da Sergio, and this is the home of thin crusts, delicious and generous toppings, cooked in the restaurant’s wood burning oven. From anchovies, to a variety of cheeses and salamis, the prices are moderate, and as an added bonus you can always wash down your meal with some locally brewed beer.

Harbourside location at Scuba Restaurant

Gaze out onto the horizon as you tuck into a delicious meal of peppered steak or fish stew in this restaurant. It’s not simply that Scuba’s location is exceptional, the presentation and quality of its meals, as well as the decor and ambience, all contribute to the quality of this establishment. Booking is advised in high season.

Mussels and more at La Vela

As well as serving a wide range of seafood dishes, La Vela also has pasta and pizzas on its extensive menu. The mussel and clam dishes are tasty and fresh, and as well as serving traditional Istrian cuisine this restaurant also caters for vegetarians.

A friendly atmosphere at Taverna Amicis

The chef here loves to create new dishes. Whether they’re puddings made from local strawberries, cream and other treats, or novel ways of serving crab, a meal here is always an exciting culinary experience. With moderate prices and an ever-changing menu, a meal at Taverna Amicis is always a delight.

Seasonal offerings at Dreams

Fusion cooking is what you can expect when you dine at Dreams. Using local and seasonal produce as well as degree of flair, the dishes are always imaginative and are presented beautifully. From light salads to pasta and truffles, this is the right place to enjoy a leisurely meal. All allergies are taken into account – just inform the staff.

If any of our recommendations tempt your tastebuds, be sure to check out our range of cheap holidays to Croatia.