- Dinner in the Sky Dubrovnik is named the best-rated restaurant in the city
- Paninaro Sandwich Bar is second, while Du Smash is third
- The number of five-star TripAdvisor and Google reviews were analysed for over 400 restaurants in Dubrovnik
Christmas is here, and for many a few days off means a chance to travel. Croatia, and more specificially Dubrovnik, is a European hotspot and new data has revealed the best restaurants to visit in the historic city. It is one of the most prominent tourist destinations in the Mediterranean and was added to the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites in 1979 for its medieval architecture and fortified old town.
Journoresearch gathered a list of 404 restaurants located in Dubrovnik and ranked them based on the percentage of five-star reviews from both TripAdvisor and Google.
Dinner in the Sky Dubrovnik is crowned the best restaurant in the city, with a 98.43% five-star approval rating.
This restaurant takes the dining experience to new heights, where guests are elevated 50 metres above the city with a 360-degree panoramic view of Dubrovnik’s beautiful coastline.
Guests can choose between two dining options, both featuring fresh, local ingredients paired with unlimited, carefully selected wines. Visitors praise the “excellent food,” “wonderful entertainment,” and “breathtaking views.”
Paninaro Sandwich Bar is a close second, with a 98.06% five-star approval rating.
A small Italian café, Paninaro Sandwich Bar is a must-visit lunch spot for a quick but delicious meal. They make their own focaccia, and although the menu is simple, they pride themselves on using quality, local ingredients.
One standout item is the Paninaro sandwich, stuffed with stracciatella, prosciutto, peach, rocket, marinated onion, and Genovese pesto. Reviewers love the “super friendly staff,” “unreal sandwiches,” and the “inviting aroma of freshly baked bread.”
In third is Du Smash, with a 97.89% five-star approval rating.
Du Smash is a brightly coloured fast-food truck nestled in Dubrovnik port. Their focus is smash burgers, with chicken options available too, and a range of fries and sides.
With great views of the water, the truck is open for both lunch and dinner, making it a perfect place to grab a quick bite. Visitors claim they serve the “best burgers in Croatia” and commend the quick service and affordability.
Barka Tapas and Wine Bar is fourth, with a 97.14% five-star approval rating.
Tucked away on a side street just off the main square in Dubrovnik, Barka serves an array of indulgent small plates.
From fresh seafood to locally sourced meats and produce, each dish is thoughtfully prepared and often accompanied by a selection of wines. Reviews mention the “warm, family-friendly atmosphere” alongside the “fresh and delicious” food.
Mlinica Ano is fifth, with a 96.39% five-star approval rating.
Situated in a historic stone mill, this family-run restaurant provides a serene escape from the busier areas of Dubrovnik.
The standout dishes include hearty seafood platters, roasted meats, and homemade bread baked in the old mill. If you’re after a “welcoming and authentic meal,” this restaurant should be on your list.
In sixth is Izletište Koraćevo, with a 95.81% five-star approval rating. The restaurant focuses on traditional, slow-cooked Croatian dishes, often prepared over an open fire or in a peka, which is an iron bell used for cooking meat and vegetables in their own juices. Highlights include the homemade liqueurs and fresh cheese made on-site every morning.
Seventh is Kameni Dvori Tavern, with a 95.53% five-star approval rating. With a view of the surrounding countryside, this tavern is ideal for anyone looking to experience a traditional Croatian meal in a peaceful, scenic setting just a short trip from the city. Reviewers rave about the accompanying cooking class and homemade dishes.
Marden is eighth, with a 95.39% five-star approval rating. Marden is known for its attentive service, providing a refined yet relaxed dining experience in Dubrovnik. Ideal for a romantic evening or special celebration, the restaurant offers the best of Mediterranean cuisine with a modern twist.
In ninth is Rajski Kutak Bindo, with a 95.13% five-star approval rating. A family-owned restaurant located above Šunj beach, Rajski Kutak Bindo specialises in octopus, veal and lamb. Most of the vegetables used are grown in their own garden and there are hammocks dotted around for extra relaxation.
Bistro Despet is tenth, with a 95.07% five-star approval rating. The menu at Bistro Despet emphasises seasonal ingredients and often features a rotating selection of inventive dishes, including seafood, pasta, and vegetarian options with a Mediterranean twist. Visitors love the steak tartare, swordfish, and homemade apple pie.
Top 10 best rated restaurants in Dubrovnik
| Rank | Restaurant | Percentage of five-star reviews |
| 1 | Dinner in the Sky Dubrovnik | 98.43% |
| 2 | Paninaro Sandwich Bar | 98.06% |
| 3 | Du Smash | 97.89% |
| 4 | Barka Bar | 97.14% |
| 5 | Mlinica Ano | 96.39% |
| 6 | Izletište Koraćevo | 95.81% |
| 7 | Kameni Dvori Tavern | 95.53% |
| 8 | Marden | 95.39% |
| 9 | Rajski Kutak Bindo | 95.13% |
| 10 | Bistro Despet | 95.07% |
Commenting on the findings, a spokesperson from dinnerinthesky.hr said: “Dubrovnik is filled to the brim with delicious food options, so much so that it can be overwhelming for tourists to know where to go.
“The restaurants featured provide a good starting point for those visiting the city on the hunt for amazing dining options.
“Whether you’re looking for an out-of-this-world experience, like dining in the sky, a quick bite to eat when sightseeing, or traditional Croatian dishes, this list has you covered.”
