While the cuisine in each Croatian region has its charms and perks as to what makes it stand out, we’d like to argue that the cooking in the southern region of Dalmatia is a foodie force to be reckoned with. And this is primarily thanks to the UNESCO-protected Mediterranean Diet. Yes, Croatia’s southern region, known for its unbeatable coastline of islands, is applauded for simple fare that features heart-healthy ingredients that should be a part of everyone’s diet - like olive oil, seafood, and vegetables. In other words, the core of Dalmatian cooking.
Led by a culinary philosophy passed down from generation to generation, from one grandmother to the next, Dalmatian cooking is the lifeline to this part of Croatian culture, and its age-old recipes are not to be overlooked, so much so that four restaurants in the Dalmatian region have been awarded a Michelin star!
So, which Michelin-star restaurants should you visit on your next luxury yacht charter around Dalmatia? You’ll want to keep reading.
Boškinac
It’s best to start with the northernmost Dalmatian Michelin-star restaurant tucked inland on the island of Pag. Meet Boškinac, not only a restaurant but a hotel and winery located in Novaljsko Polje between the better-known towns of Novalja and Stara Novalja. Considered a culinary symbol on the island, Boškinac received its first Michelin star in 2020 and has continued to impress ever since. Respecting the natural island environment and terroir as the foundation for its menu, you’ll find dishes that embrace the best of the island, from their famous lamb and cheese to seafood and olive oil. Everything is sourced locally and seasonally, as is their philosophy, and fills into three types of tasting menus that offer guests dishes from the land, sea, and fields. And don’t forget to pair your meal with sommelier-selected wine!
Pelegrini
Cruising down south is the stunning town of Šibenik, known as the only Croatian city with two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, but also its famed Michelin-star gem Pelegrini. Often considered the best restaurant in Dalmatia, and not by surprise, Pelegrini is a Michelin pioneer in the region, earning its star back in 2018! Imaginative chef Rudolf Štefan is the leader of this story, who was also named the chef of the year in 2018. Rudolph, or Rudi for short, has reimagined the recipes of his master chef grandmother to create tasting menus that pay tribute to the culinary heritage of Dalmatia, with a focus on local ingredients and producers. This year, Pelegrini offers a 6-course tasting menu that can be perfectly paired with wine, with all dishes drawing inspiration from the region that gave it life. A mix of meat, seafood, and vegetarian dishes tempt palates of all types for a well-rounded culinary experience with a view of the UNESCO-protected St. James Cathedral.
LD Restaurant
It’s impossible to miss the island of Korčula and its Michelin-star restaurant LD, part of the luxury Lešić Dimitri Palace Hotel. Not only is the terrace setting spectacular as it sprawls along the old town walls, but Chef Marko Gajski has enhanced the culinary prowess of this town with his inventive menus, earning them a Michelin star in 2020. Inspired by the Adriatic coast’s beautiful gardens on land and sea, LD also ensures that local and seasonal ingredients drive its menus. Having their own garden certainly helps achieve this in every dish. This al fresco fine dining restaurant offers a multiple-course food experience through its creative tasting menus of six courses, six wines, and local island olive oils. All dishes are rooted in the rich Dalmatian cuisine, with some flair that pays tribute to Korčula’s past and Marco Polo’s Silk Road travels. Expect everything from freshly-caught seafood to gyoza, all exquisitely crafted on perfect plates that are a feast for the eyes as much as they are for your stomach.
360 Dubrovnik
And to end? There is no better finish to your Dalmatia yacht charter than Dubrovnik, the UNESCO gem of the Adriatic. And there is no better spot to have your last supper than 360. This Michelin marvel sits in an unmatched setting by the famous defensive walls, adding a touch of history to your tasting menu extravaganza. Guests can choose between two tasting menus - Antologia, a hand-crafted selection of signature dishes by Chef Marijo Curić, or Republika, a modern take on the heritage dishes from the Dubrovnik Renaissance. 360 is known for fusing Croatian cuisine with French cooking techniques, and always honors local and seasonal, as is the lay of the land. The a la carte menu is set in different acts, featuring decadent items like oysters, foie gras, and pigeons, among some of the creations you can try. Marijo Curić’s culinary prowess shines in the 360 kitchen, giving Dubrovnik its first Michelin star in 2018.
If you don’t feel like eating star-studded dishes in Croatia, don’t worry - there is an excellent selection of Michelin-recommended restaurants along the Dalmatian coast, too! No matter where you sail around Dalmatia, check out what’s around you for Michelin-worthy cuisine!
Ready to set sail on a luxury yacht charter in Dalmatia? Don't miss the chance to savor Michelin-starred dining experiences that blend Mediterranean flavors, history, and stunning views. Contact us now to plan your perfect itinerary, fusing yacht elegance with Dalmatia's culinary delights. Your culinary adventure starts here!