Croatia is cooking up a real culinary revolution, and as a French foodie, I can’t help but smile: after all, these Michelin stars carry a hint of French flair in their DNA! For the first time ever, Croatia now boasts a two-star Michelin restaurant, while new stars are shining brightly in Zagreb, Split, Rovinj, and beyond.
Today, more than a dozen restaurants across the country proudly wear their one Michelin star, showing the world that Croatia’s fine dining scene is ready to play in the big leagues. A handful have even earned the Michelin Green Star for their commitment to sustainability. This rising wave proves one thing: Croatia is no longer just about stunning coastlines and ancient towns—it’s a must-visit for food lovers, too. From the Istrian peninsula to the Dalmatian coast and the bustling streets of Zagreb, Croatia serves up a rich blend of tradition, local produce, and modern culinary creativity.
Split’s First Michelin Star: Krug Restaurant Shines Bright
Split, Croatia’s buzzing coastal hub, now celebrates its first-ever Michelin star, thanks to Krug. In the heart of the city, just steps from the iconic Riva promenade, Krug offers a unique and intimate fine dining experience, with a minimalist open-kitchen layout that invites guests into the heart of the culinary action.
Behind Krug stand Chef Karlo Kaleb and sommelier-chef Jurica Delić, who deliver an innovative, multi-course tasting menu rooted in Dalmatian tradition and elevated with modern flair. Every dish celebrates the region’s bounty—freshly caught Adriatic seafood, wild herbs, native citrus, and organic vegetables—sourced from trusted local producers.
What sets Krug apart is its obsessive attention to detail. Meats and fish are dry-aged in-house, sauces are deeply layered, and fermented delicacies add a surprising, earthy complexity. Even the bread and butter are made on-site, speaking volumes about the restaurant’s commitment to craft.
The wine list, curated by Delić himself, is a carefully chosen journey through Croatia’s top vineyards, featuring elegant whites from Istria, robust reds from Dalmatia, and thoughtfully selected international labels—all perfectly paired with the menu.
But beyond the flavors, it’s the atmosphere of Krug that leaves a lasting impression: warm, personal, and refreshingly unpretentious. Guests are invited to engage with the chefs, ask questions, and immerse themselves in a story told through food.
For Split, Krug is a game changer—a bold, confident step onto Europe’s gourmet stage, and a signal that this Adriatic city is ready to compete with the continent’s culinary heavyweights.
Rovinj: Istria’s Fine Dining Crown Jewel
If Krug is a bold new addition, then Cap Aureo is the crown jewel that confirms Rovinj’s place as Croatia’s fine dining capital. Located in the elegant Grand Park Hotel, Cap Aureo earned its first Michelin star under the leadership of Chef Jeffrey Vella, whose tasting menus rely almost entirely on ingredients sourced within 50 kilometers.
Think monkfish in a rich mushroom jus, perfectly cooked Istrian lamb, foraged herbs, delicate edible flowers, and the region’s renowned olive oils. Pastry chef Maša Salopek finishes the journey with refined, elegant desserts that make every meal feel like a celebration. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer breathtaking views of Rovinj’s marina and old town, creating an atmosphere that’s as unforgettable as the cuisine itself.
With Cap Aureo’s new star, Rovinj now boasts four Michelin stars: two for Agli Amici, and one each for Monte and Cap Aureo. It’s a remarkable achievement for a town of its size—and solid proof that Istria’s culinary scene is soaring. Add in the region’s world-class olive oil, truffles, coastal seafood, and local wine culture, and it becomes clear: this is a gastronomic region food lovers simply can’t ignore.
A Delicious Future Ahead
Croatia’s latest Michelin stars reflect how far the country has come—and hint at how much more delicious discovery lies ahead. From Split’s sunny promenades to Rovinj’s romantic streets, Croatia is ready to win over even the most demanding gourmets.
So let’s raise a glass to Michelin stars with a Mediterranean twist, and to all the tasty adventures still waiting to be devoured.
Bon appétit—or as they say here, Dobar tek!
