The 5 Best Restaurants in Split City in Croatia

Alfresco dining terrace in Kinoteka Restaurant inside Diocletian's Palace in Split, Croatia,Photo Source:kinoteka.com.hr

The city of Split represents the center of the gastronomical scene in Dalmatia. Since there are many eateries and restaurants all over the town, and many confusing reviews online, our guests who stay at villas in Split often rely on personal recommendations from their travel agents, hosts, or friends.

Thus, with food and service quality in mind, here is our list of the best restaurants in Split.

1. Konoba Nikola - The Best Fish Restaurant in Split, Dalmatia

Konoba Nikola, Split, Croatia - Photo Source:FB Konoba Nikola

The best place to eat first-class fish and seafood in Split is the Konoba Nikola restaurant.

This is a small, intimate, tavern-style restaurant. It's located away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Split, in the residential area of Stobrec. The same family has run it for almost 20 years. Although it is a bit off the beaten path and out of the city center, you can easily reach it by personal car or by taxi. The restaurant always secures a parking lot for its guests.

Konoba Nikola is one of those special places real foodies and gourmets are looking for everywhere they travel. The dishes are simple, yet incredibly tasteful, prepared from fresh, top-quality ingredients.

Interior details in Konoba Nikola, Split, Croatia, Photo Source:FB Konoba Nikola

The setting of the restaurant is warm and cozy. The interior is decorated with antique navy details. There are about 30 seating places and no outdoor terrace, which suggests exclusivity. Thus, table reservation in advance is a must.

Konoba Nikola continuously delivers high-quality meals in a pleasurable ambiance, delighting the bellies and minds of its guests all year round.

Seafood served in Restaurant Konoba Nikola,Photo Source:FB Konoba Nikola

They start with serving lunch and finish with dinner. Although you can choose from fish and meat dishes, we suggest you go for fish.

The catch-of-the-day fish here will be displayed to you and you can choose what you want to have. Professional and attentive waiters will help you with suggestions and you can create your own personalized tasting menu. The wine list is extensive, representing the best Croatian and international wines. Wine pairing will add an extra note to indulgence in fish delicacies.

Catch-of-the-day fish and seafood on display in Konoba Nikola

They cherish and preserve their reputation as the best fish restaurant in Split-Dalmatia county with mouthwatering dishes prepared from fresh ingredients.

Seafood served in Restaurant Konoba Nikola

If you choose Konoba Nikola, prepare to be amazed by the unbelievable gourmet experiences. You will most likely want to return the very next day.

Address:Ivankova ul. 42, 21311, Stobrec, Croatia

Reservations: +385 21 326 235

Website: Facebook Page Konoba Nikola & Instagram Konoba Nikola

2. Bokeria Kitchen & Wine Bar - The Best Place to Dine & Wine in the Split Old Town

Restaurant Bokerie Kitchen & Wine Bar in Split, Croatia, Photo:FB Bokeria kitchen & wine

One of our favorite restaurants in the old town of Split is Bokeria Kitchen & Wine Bar.

This charming place resides in the restored historical house within the vibrant streets of the old town. It is just a couple of minutes on foot from Diocletian’s Palace and waterfront promenade Riva.

Bokeria Kitchen & Wine Bar - interior shot from the second floor, PhotoFB Bokeria kitchen & wine

Bokeria stands out in the gastronomic scene of Split with its unique style. The famous market in Barcelona inspired its appearance. The restaurant stretches over 2 indoor floors and there's a row of side-street tables outside.

Food presentation in Bokeria Restaurant in Split, Photo:FB Bokeria kitchen & wine

Bokeria is the most popular restaurant to dine and wine in Split. Here you can indulge in delicious meals from breakfast to lunch, and finish with late-night drinks.

Breakfast served at the alfresco table in Bokeria restaurant in the Split city center, Photo: FB Bokeria kitchen & wine

Bokeria focuses on creatively serving the very best of local ingredients to your plate. The menu includes a mix of meat and fish meals, with vegan and vegetarian options. The menu changes depending on the season. It is a good option for families, couples, and bigger groups.

Dine and Wine in Bokeria Restaurant in Split, Photo Source:FB Bokeria kitchen & wine

Bokeria often takes place in the list of the best restaurants in Split, offering excellent food and atmosphere. Also, celebrities visiting Split, often choose Bokeria for dinner. Some of them are Julia Roberts and Magic Johnson.

Although they have many seating places, all the tables get easily booked. If you want to dine here, make sure to book in advance.

Address: Domaldova ul. 8, 21000, Split, Croatia

Reservations:+385 (21) 355 577

Website: FB Page Bokeria Kitchen & Wine & Instagram Bokeria Croatia

3. Makarun - The Best Seafood Restaurant in the Split City Center

Makarun Restaurant in Split City Center, Photo Source:Makarun

Well hidden within the streets of the Split Old Town, restaurant Makarun offers a fine dining experience to its guests all year round. They nurture a high reputation as one of the best places to have seafood and homemade pasta in the center of Split.

Makarun Restaurant in Split City Center, Photo Source:Makarun

An elegant sign with the name of the Makarun restaurant shines invitingly at the front of one of the old stone passages. The patio with the main terrace lies only a few steps away from the vibrant street. From the first step in, you get overwhelmed by the relaxed Mediterranean ambiance. The decorations are intentionally simple and elegant, allowing plethora of tastes to play the main role.

Homemade pasta, Photo:Makarun

Makarun is named after the "makaruni", a homemade pasta prepared following a traditional recipe from Korcula Island. Of course, one of the chef's specials is "makaruni" homemade pasta with seafood.

Meal presentation, Restaurant Makarun in Split city Center, Photo:Makarun

Makarun is very well-established for meat and seafood. Here you will find a great selection of Croatian wines, too. The staff is very knowledgeable and ready to help in pairing food and wine.

Restaurant Makakrun is very popular among the local gourmets who will without exception always name it among the best restaurants in the Split center. This place abounds with a positive atmosphere and radiates joyfulness and happiness of enjoyment in delicious food and top-quality wines.

Seafood presentation, Photo:Makarun

Makarun is also a good choice for special occasions, such as birthday celebrations, and reunions. It can be closed for a private event such as a wedding reception, but this should be arranged months upfront.

Address: Marulićeva ul. 3, 21000, Split, Croatia

Reservations: +38521725058

Website: https://makarun.com/

4. Kinoteka Food & Bar – The Golden Ratio of Dining

Terrace of the restaurant Kinoteka in Split City, Photo:Kinoteka

Located in the very nucleus of the city of Split, the Kinoteka restaurant is well established as a rising star to differentiate itself from other restaurants in the Split city center.

Food presentation at Kinoteka restaurant in Split, Photo:Kinoteka

Kinoteka starts serving mouthwatering delicacies in the morning and it's open until midnight. You can choose between a casual brunch in the inner courtyard, a healthy afternoon break in the golden-blue room, or an intimate dinner in a secret chapel.

Food presentation at Kinoteka restaurant in Split, Photo:Kinoteka

The restaurant is a special fine dining place inside the Diocletian’s Palace. Although you will need some effort to navigate through the labyrinth of streets to find it, it is well worth the visit.

Food presentation at Kinoteka restaurant in Split, Photo:Kinoteka

It is set in a Roman-era palace with a beautiful terrace. You can choose from indoor and outdoor seating. Old cinema and movies inspired the interior design, with walls full of legendary masterpieces. You'll experience dining with Humphrey, Elizabeth, Clint, Orson, Marilyn…

Interior of the restaurant Kinoteka in Split City center, inspired by old cinema, Photo:Kinoteka

In Kinoteka, they invest a lot in creating a relaxing ambiance, so often they have live acoustic music. Here you will also find their bar with an interesting list of amazing signature cocktails and an excellent wine list.

Signature Cocktails Kinoteka Split, Photo:Kinoteka

After you indulge your palates to enjoy amazingly tasteful meals, wash your mouth with one of Kinoteka's signature cocktails and enjoy the magical ambiance.

Private dining table of the restaurant Kinoteka in Split City, Photo:Kinoteka

If you like innovative food with a Mediterranean influence accompanied by world-class service, eating in Kinoteka restaurant is a must-do on your visit to Split.

Address: Ul. Majstora Jurja 8, 21000, Split

Reservations:+385 91 530 4260

Website: https://kinoteka.com.hr/

5. Zoi – The Best Restaurant With a Romantic Setting and Sea View in Split

Beautiful dining terrace with sea views, restaurant Zoi in Split, Photo: Zoi

Zoi is our top recommendation if you're searching for a restaurant in Split with a romantic setting and sea view.

Art of food delivered by Zoi restaurant in Split, Photo:Zoi

This restaurant is located on the southern wall of Diocletian's Palace, overlooking Riva and the islands in front. In addition to the perfect setting, the culinary team in Zoi will deliver the art of the food to your plate.

A phenomenal combination of fresh ingredients, superb wines, and a unique setting with stunning sea views will make your lunch or dinner pleasant to the maximum.

Indoor dining salon in restaurant Zoi, Split, Croatia, Photo: Zoi

Zoi bursts with positive vibes and a Mediterranean ambiance. Enjoy top-class delicacies and the relaxing ambiance as you observe the everyday life of the waterfront promenade Riva.

The number of indoor and outdoor seating places is limited. So, we advise reserving a table upfront.

Mediterranean cuisine in Zoi's way, Photo: Zoi

Zoi's culinary team focuses on Mediterranean cuisine with a touch of historical heritage. Enrich delightful and eye-catching dishes with one from their rich list of top-class international and Croatian wines. Also, at Zoi, you can choose from over 20 different craft beers.

Outdoor dining table by the southern wall of the Diocleatian's Palace in Split, Photo:Zoi

Art food, Mediterranean cuisine, Zoi Restaurant in Split, Photo:Zoi

Choose Zoi for a romantic dinner in Split and impress your loved one!

Address: Obala Hrvatskog narodnog preporoda 23, 21000, Split, Croatia

Reservations:+385 21 637 491

Website: https://zoi.hr/

If you are staying in Split for more than just a few days, you should definitely visit Trogir and its old town. Read The 5 Best Restaurants in Trogir for ideas on where to eat out in Trogir!