When you’re in Belgrade or anywhere in Serbia, you’re in for a treat – the food is amazing! The traditional restaurants dish up heaping plates of Serbian cuisine that are enough to satisfy even the biggest appetites. They cook up all kinds of meat to perfection, and the portions are so generous that you’ll probably have leftovers for days. It’s hard to go wrong with Serbian food in Belgrade, but we’ve got the inside scoop on the best traditional restaurants to hit up!
1. Kovač
Kovač is a restaurant that perfectly blends the classic Serbian style with modern standards, all while keeping its authentic essence. The meal kicks off with freshly baked cornbread, homemade cheese, and Serbian prosciutto, followed by a menu full of traditional dishes like smoked ribs, boiled ham hock, and steak skewers wrapped in prosciutto. A must-try is their roasted veal and pork, made under the bell with coals on top, letting the meat cook in its own juices – it’s deliciously succulent. Don’t forget to leave some room for dessert, as their sweets are heavenly, and we recommend trying their quince tiramisu. They boast an impressive wine collection of over 2000 bottles, and their homemade rakija selection is equally impressive. Kovač is situated opposite the Banjica Forest in the southern part of the city, and a taxi is the most convenient way to get there.
2. Bela Reka
Back in the day, everyone knew the key to a delicious feast: a killer recipe and fresh, locally sourced ingredients prepared with a dash of TLC. Fortunately, Bela Reka is still hip to these old-school truths. Drawing inspiration from the tried-and-true recipes of Serbian grandmas, this restaurant is a veritable treasure trove of tantalizing flavors. And it’s not just about the food – you can chill, savor your meal, and sip on some finest local wine and rakija. It’s the perfect place to kick back and feel right at home.
3. Rubin
Rubin, a renowned restaurant in the capital, offers breathtaking views of Košutnjak and Mt Avala. It is known for its rustic wooden décor, excellent service, and timeless appeal, providing a perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. The menu comprises traditional grilled meat dishes and refreshing salads, which are loved by all travelers. While the food is delicious, it is the stunning green scenery that truly captivates visitors.
4. Šešir Moj
Located in the heart of Skadarlija, Šešir Moj has been crowned as the top tavern in South Eastern Europe. This authentic Serbian tavern offers a mellow vibe during the day and is festive at night. Here, you can enjoy delicious food and drinks while surrounded by a diverse crowd of foodies and artists. The staff takes pride in ensuring every guest is content and satisfied, and their regulars keep coming back for more. At Šešir Moj, you’ll find the perfect combination of tradition and modernity, making it the ultimate destination for anyone in search of the rhythm of Belgrade.
5. Tri Šešira
Tri Šešira, a restaurant that has been around since 1864, has become a beloved part of Belgrade’s culture. It perfectly captures the Bohemian atmosphere of Skadarlija with its traditional local cuisine and live musicians performing right at your table. While the constantly moving ensemble may be a little overwhelming at first, it’s an experience that you’ll eventually get used to and come to appreciate. So, get ready for a lively evening of delicious food and music at Tri Šešira!
6. Restoran Ćiribu Ćiriba
The phrase “Ćiribu Ćiriba” might be a tongue twister for non-Serbs, but it actually means “abracadabra”. The restaurant named after this phrase is just as authentically Serbian as its name suggests. The decor features a vintage Serbian stove, classic black and white portraits, and plenty of other charming old-timey items. As a customary welcome, guests are offered a spoonful of delicious Serbian jam-like sweets upon arrival. It’s a fun and professional atmosphere that truly captures the essence of Serbian culture.
7. Dva Jelena
Dva Jelena is a renowned tavern that has attracted many historical figures over the years. Its popularity has even caught the attention of the legendary Tito. With a laundry list of famous guests, the walls of this celebrated Skadarlija spot could tell countless stories. You can indulge in traditional Serbian cuisine while immersing yourself in the rich history of this iconic restaurant. If it’s good enough for Tito, it’s definitely good enough for us!
8. Proleće
This eatery is famous for its diverse selection of “home-style” dishes and barbecued meats. Despite its unsightly décor, which the regulars have grown to cherish, tarnished silverware, and the occasional patched tablecloth, the residents of Belgrade feel right at home here. This location draws a varied clientele, including young couples in love, elderly people reading the news, businessmen in suits, and broke students sharing a meal, all bound by their mutual desire for a heartwarming, “home-style” dish. There’s no music playing, but the atmosphere is electric enough to keep everyone engaged.
9. Salaš 034
Located in Gardoš, a charming duplex restaurant nestled in an old family house awaits you. The interior boasts bright colors and floral patterns, reminiscent of traditional houses. The upper level offers a stunning view of the rooftops of Gardoš, and for an even more unforgettable experience, aim for a table on the miniature terrace. The food is of good quality, and the portions are generously sized. Although the waiters are friendly, their numbers are few, so if the restaurant is crowded, you may need to put in some effort to grab their attention. Overall, this is a must-visit restaurant for a delightful dining experience.
10. Kafana?
If you’re on the lookout for the oldest kafana in the city, look no further than the iconic spot named ‘Znak Pitanja’. It’s not just a restaurant but a testament to history, with a building that has stood tall for almost 200 years since its construction on the orders of Miloš Obrenović in the 1820s. The walls ooze with the palpable past, but the patrons are certainly more present-day. In fact, the famous linguist Vuk Karadžić used to dine here, before losing his legs. You can enjoy some delicious traditional Serbian food here while soaking in the rich history.