In the world of culinary arts, being included in the annual Michelin guide is equal to being nominated for an Oscar in acting. Getting a prestigious Michelin star is rightfully equivalent to winning the adored golden statuette.
Recently, Rene Redzepi, Danish- Albanian chef who is a common name in the top haute cuisine of the world, won his third Michelin star after years of topping all world restaurant lists with his famous Noma restaurant and the culinary scene congratulated on something that was, at least what many think, long overdue.
A prestigious Michelin star is rightfully equivalent to winning the adored golden statuette
Michelin star is more than just a sign of prestige. It is a sign of verification of a particular cuisine and its presentation. When looking at the list of countries included in the famous guide, you will instantly notice that few countries are included. Some countries are not even included as a whole but by their cities or regions ( Seoul or California, for example).
This explains a lot about how exclusive this gourmet club is, and Croatia is a full member.
So what are the places where you can have a Michelin experience in Croatia? Let’s take a look at the list of the stars…
360, Dubrovnik
If you are looking for a full experience of Dubrovnik, there is hardly any better place than 360, the restaurant where you enter through legendary city walls and enjoy the view of the whole city underneath your sight. Modern cuisine combined with the traditional and historical scene truly makes a one-of-a-kind experience.
Draga di Lovrana, Lovran
Nearby, on the most beautiful places on the Croatian coast, Opatija, is Lovran, one of the pearls of the Kvarner Bay. In Draga di Lovrana you can enjoy traditional Mediterranean cuisine with a contemporary touch. You can enjoy the best of the coast without the disturbance of masses of tourists.
Monte, Rovinj
Istria hides tons of hidden gems. One of them is definitely Monte, a restaurant sighting the famous Saint Eufemia church. Suppose you are looking for something different, unexpected, and modern. In that case, Monte is the right place since its chef presents exclusive contemporary techniques and ingredients. It is also worth noting that Monte was the first Croatian restaurant to earn a Michelin star.
Pelegrini, Šibenik
In the middle of breathtaking Dalmatia, in the historical city of Šibenik, if you want to try the best of meat or seafood, there truly isn’t a better place than Pelegrini. Fresh ingredients and professional staff will make your Dalmatian experience unforgettable.
Noel, Zagreb
Traditional Croatian cuisine with a youthful twist by a young chef who has previously been working with other Michelin-rated chefs abroad. When in the Croatian capital, be sure to check out Noel, its only Michelin restaurant.
Boškinac, Novalja
Pag island is one of the most unique of Croatian 1200 islands. Although surrounded by the sea, the surface of the islands resembles the surface of the Moon. Besides its magical scenery, Pag is famous for its lamb and cheese and wine and UNESCO-protected lace designs. Suppose Pag experience is what you are looking for. In that case, Boškinac is a well-known household name that guarantees only the best domestic gourmet memories.
LD Terrace, Korčula
An actual maritime episode of your trip through Dalmatia. On the historic island of Korčula, look no further if you seek the best Mediterranean cuisine with local produce and a fantastic view of the Adriatic sea. Insiders from Michelin recommend sea bass as the LD Terrace best meal, so why not try?
Agli Amici, Rovinj
Another Michelin star-studded place in Rovinj Agli Amici offers you one of the most amazing views at the coast as well as some of the finest novelties in Mediterranean cooking, which includes 3 menus; Istria, a menu dedicated to regional cuisine, Godia, a chef’s personal touch to classic dishes and a third menu dedicated to Mediterranean tradition.
Alfred Keller, Mali Lošinj
Island of Mali Lošinj is also officially known as the island of vitality, and that alone is enough to make you want to explore this fantastic place, but in case you reside in Alhambra Boutique Hotel, chances are you’ll stumble upon Alfred Keller restaurant inside the hotel. The restaurant gives you options of daily meals, from breakfast and brunch to exclusive modern and creative dinners you won’t be forgetting for sure.
Nebo, Rijeka
With a location on the fifth floor of Hilton Rijeka Costabella Beach Resort&Spa, you already know the view from above is impressive. And it truly is. While eating some of the contemporary twists to regional cuisine, you can overlook the nearby Cres island and enjoy some of the finest wines from all around the world at Nebo (A Sky) restaurant.
A staycation in Croatia is Staylicious
No matter which of these restaurants is your choice – satisfaction is guaranteed.
Good appetite or in Croatian ‘Dobar tek’!
The author of the most staylicious article is Ana Plevko
