Rovinj on a Plate: 10 recommended restaurants in a Croatian resort
April 11, 2025
Rovinj, a charming town on the coast of Istria, is not only picturesque streets and crystal clear sea, but also a true paradise for foodies. It's the perfect place for a romantic vacation, where culinary sensations mingle with the beauty of the surroundings to create unforgettable memories for couples looking for a unique experience. In this article, we'll take you on a journey through 10 of Rovinj's best restaurants that will not only delight your palate, but also ignite your senses and create the perfect backdrop for an amorous getaway. From exquisite establishments overlooking the sea to cozy taverns serving traditional Istrian specialties, each of these restaurants has its own unique character and atmosphere, perfect for couples seeking romantic moments in Croatia. Get ready for a culinary experience that will make your trip for two take on a whole new dimension!
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Exquisite experience overlooking the sea
Start our culinary journey with restaurants that combine delicious cuisine with breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. Puntulina Restaurant, located right on the seafront, is a place that impresses not only with its location, but especially with its menu. Specializing in seafood, the restaurant offers dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients. Guests especially praise the lobster and scallop dishes, which can be enjoyed while sitting on the terrace overlooking the sunset. Prices are higher than at average establishments, but the quality and atmosphere fully compensate for this.
Another place worth visiting is Maestral Restaurant. Located on the promenade, it offers not only a view of the sea, but also of the charming old town of Rovinj. The restaurant is famous for its excellent grilled dishes, including fresh fish and seafood. Guests especially recommend the fish 'plata', which is a real feast for the palate. Prices here are a bit more affordable than in Puntulin, which, combined with fast and friendly service, makes Maestral a great choice for a romantic dinner.
For those looking for a truly unique culinary experience, Monte is a must-stop. This restaurant, the first in Croatia to be honored with a Michelin star, offers an unforgettable gastronomic experience. Here, the chef combines modern culinary techniques with traditional Croatian flavors to create dishes that are true works of art. The tasting menus, consisting of several or a dozen dishes, are a journey through the flavors of Istria that will delight even the most demanding gourmets. Prices are high, but the quality and creativity of the dishes served fully justify it.
Brasserie Adriatic, located in the historic Adriatic Hotel, is another place that combines elegance with a top-notch culinary experience. The restaurant offers a menu inspired by French classics, but with a strong emphasis on local, Istrian flavors. Guests especially praise the dishes with truffles, which are a local specialty. The beautiful interiors and professional service make it an ideal place for a romantic dinner or special occasion.
Traditional flavors in a modern twist
Let's now move on to restaurants that offer a more traditional approach to local cuisine, while not sacrificing modern touches. La Vela gostionica is a place that impresses with its homey atmosphere and authentic flavors of Istria. The restaurant is famous for its excellent pastas, especially those with truffles, which are a true treasure of the region. Guests also praise the seafood, especially the mussels, which are always fresh and perfectly cooked. Prices here are moderate, which, combined with the cozy decor and friendly service, makes La Vela the perfect place for a romantic dinner in a more casual atmosphere.
Giannino Restaurant is another gem among Rovinia's establishments. Located on a side street in the old town, it offers an intimate atmosphere ideal for couples. The restaurant specializes in seafood dishes, but the menu also includes excellent meat options. Guests especially recommend the octopus, which is cooked here in an exceptionally delicate way. Prices are moderate, and the quality of the dishes and service keeps many guests returning here repeatedly during their stay in Rovinj.
Restoran Santa Croce is a place that combines elements of a traditional taverna with modern touches. The menu is based on local, seasonal products, which guarantees always fresh and tasty dishes. The restaurant is famous for its excellent pastas and risottos, but you should also try the grilled dishes here. The atmosphere here is more casual than in some of the more upscale establishments, but the quality of the food is not inferior to the best restaurants in the city.
Restaurant MARINA is another place to visit on your culinary journey through Rovinj. Located in the heart of the marina, it offers not only great food, but also beautiful views of the moored yachts. The menu focuses on seafood and fish, but you'll also find good options for meat lovers. Guests especially praise the fish soups and grilled fish of the day. Prices are moderate and service is professional and friendly.
Kantinon Tavern is a place that takes you back in time to a traditional Istrian tavern. The interior, with stone walls and wooden beams, creates a unique, romantic atmosphere. The menu is based on local recipes, but served in a modern way. Traditional dishes such as pašticada (braised beef in sauce) or fuži (handmade pasta) are worth trying here. Prices are affordable and portions are generous, making Kantinon a great choice for couples looking for authentic Istrian flavors.
Culinary gems for discerning couples
At the end of our culinary journey in Rovinj, we'll present a few places that are ideal for couples looking for a unique dining experience. Restaurant Orca, located slightly off the main tourist routes, is a real gem for lovers of fine dining. The restaurant specializes in seafood and fish dishes, but the menu also includes excellent meat options. Guests especially praise the fish soup and grilled calamari. Prices are moderate, and the quiet location makes it an ideal place for a romantic dinner away from the hustle and bustle of downtown.
For couples looking for a truly unique dining experience, Cap Aureo Signature Restaurant is a must-visit place. Although it didn't make our top ten list, it's worth mentioning because of its uniqueness. The restaurant, located in the luxurious Grand Park Hotel Rovinj, offers a tasting menu that is a true journey through the flavors of Istria. Here, the chef combines traditional ingredients with modern culinary techniques to create dishes that are not only tasty, but also visually stunning. Prices are high, but the quality and creativity of the dishes served fully justify it.
Returning to our basic list, we can't leave out the Monte restaurant, which was the first in Croatia to be honored with a Michelin star. This is a place for true connoisseurs, where each dish is a small work of art. The tasting menu, consisting of several or a dozen dishes, is a culinary journey that will delight even the most demanding gourmets. Prices are high, but the culinary experience Monte offers is worth every kuna spent.
To sum up our culinary journey in Rovinj, it is worth noting that each of the described restaurants has its own unique character and atmosphere. From elegant establishments overlooking the sea, to cozy taverns serving traditional Istrian specialties, to modern restaurants offering innovative approaches to local cuisine, Rovinj has something to offer for any couple looking for a romantic culinary experience.
When planning a romantic vacation in Rovinj, there are a few practical considerations to keep in mind. During the summer season, the recommended restaurants can be very popular, so booking a table in advance is a good idea, especially if you want a specific time or a table with the best view. Prices in Rovinj restaurants may be higher than in other parts of Croatia, but the quality of the food and the unique atmosphere fully compensate for this.
Rovinj is not only the culinary capital of Istria, but also the perfect place for a romantic getaway for two. The combination of delicious cuisine, beautiful views and the magical atmosphere of the old town makes every meal an unforgettable experience. Whether you choose an elegant restaurant overlooking the sea or a cozy tavern in a narrow street of the old town, Rovinj is sure to delight you with its culinary treasures and romantic atmosphere.
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