Best Places to Eat in Belgrade: A Local Food Lover’s Guide
Belgrade is loud, bold and emotional – and so is its food.
For Serbs, food isn’t just something we enjoy. Food is a THING. A big one. It’s how we celebrate, how we welcome people, how we show love, and how we cure a bad day. If you want to truly understand Belgrade, you need to eat your way through it. So the best way to understand the city is to explore the best places to eat in Belgrade.
The best part? Belgrade’s food scene is incredibly diverse. From the traditional dishes our grandmas perfected, to modern Balkan fusion, to sushi, to Mexican cuisine, to Indian street food, to Sri Lankan kotthu right in the city center — this city quietly serves flavors from every corner of the world. In this Belgrade food guide you will find all kind of cuisines.
One thing to keep in mind: always make a reservation. Belgrade restaurants get full even on random Tuesdays at 3 PM — don’t say I didn’t warn you.
Also, I’m personally not a fan of restaurants inside shopping malls. So if a restaurant has more than one location (and one of them is inside a mall), I always recommend the street location for the real Belgrade vibe.
Where to Eat in Belgrade: A Local Food Guide
I’ve lived in Belgrade my entire life, and this list is based on places I personally recommend to friends visiting the city—not tourist traps, but spots locals actually eat at.
1. Durmitor – Traditional Serbian Comfort Food
Durmitor is that classic place you go when you want real Serbian flavors – no shortcuts, no tricks. Their teletina ispod sača (veal cooked under an iron bell) is the star of the show: tender, juicy and so flavourful it almost melts the moment you touch it with a fork. The steak in oil is another Belgrade classic, done here exceptionally well. Leave space for dessert – the tres leches or the poppy seed cake will finish your meal with a perfect, sweet hug. If you’re searching for the best places to eat in Belgrade for traditional cuisine, Durmitor is a must.
2. Stari Mlin (Old Mill) – A National Cuisine Experience Like No Other
This is not your typical traditional restaurant – it’s more like entering a warm, rustic home where the waiter becomes your unofficial family member. Seriously, just follow the waiter’s recommendations. Everything is homemade, rich, aromatic and full of that “old Serbian village” soul. By the end of the meal, you’ll understand why this place is loved by locals who want something authentic and unforgettable. Stari Mlin offers a unique traditional experience unlike anything else in Belgrade. The portions are hearty, rustic and full of character. You’ll leave both full and impressed.
3. Nachos – Mexican Food in the City Center
Nachos brings fun, color and a punch of flavor right in the middle of downtown Belgrade. The service is always outstanding, and the food tastes even better — perfectly seasoned, fresh and generous in portion size. Their dishes are ideal for sharing, but do not share the Dubai cake — trust me, you will want it all for yourself. It is truly next level, even if it is not real mexican dessert.
4. Curry Souls – Sri Lankan Flavors on Obilićev Venac
If you want something different, fast, flavorful and comforting, Curry Souls is the place to be. They have a second location inside Galerija mall, but I always recommend the one on Obilićev venac, where you really feel the city vibe. Their beef kotthu with extra cheese is my absolute favorite — warm, spicy, soft, crispy, everything at once. Pair it with a refreshing mango iced tea and you’ll quickly become a regular.
5. Lorenzo & Kakalamba – The Weirdest, Most Wonderful Restaurant
This restaurant looks like an art museum made by a slightly crazy genius – and I mean that in the best possible way. A wild mix of Florence and Pirot, colorful, chaotic, and completely unforgettable. The food is just as creative as the interior, serving Serbian-Mediterranean fusion with bold flavors and playful combinations. If you want dinner and a story to tell – Lorenzo & Kakalamba easily belongs among the best places to eat in Belgrade.
6. Corso Ancora – Sushi, Wine & River Views
Corso Ancora is one of my all-time favorite restaurants in Belgrade. Whether you’re in the mood for the best sushi in the city, a long wine evening, or a quiet dinner by the river – menu is one of the richest around. A must-visit, especially for first-time travelers. Oh, yes, they also offer an excellent gin selection. Sunset is something you shouldn’t miss in this place.
7. Legat 1903 – A Michelin-Recommended Gem
Legat 1903 offers a completely elevated dining experience — refined without being pretentious. The dishes are beautifully plated, the flavors deep and balanced, and the service is top tier. The veal cheeks and beef steak in oil are my personal recommendations and two of the most exquisite plates you’ll try in Belgrade. Perfect for special occasions or for travelers who want something truly exceptional.
8. New Balkan Cuisine: Iva, Dragoljub & Vid
These three restaurants represent the new wave of the Belgrade dining scene – creative, modern and exciting. They belong among the best places to eat in Belgrade for food lovers seeking something modern. The flavors are impossible to describe because they combine Balkan tradition with innovative techniques, making every dish feel like a surprise. This is the kind of food that makes you pause mid-sentence because it tastes unlike anything you’ve tried before. If you want a unique culinary experience, choose any of them – you can’t go wrong.
9. Georgia – Georgian Cuisine on the Zemun Quay
Georgia brings that warm, comforting Georgian soul straight to the Danube. Whether you already love Georgian food or you’ve never tried it before, this is the perfect place. Order the veal soup (one of the best you’ll try in Belgrade) and their signature cheese-stuffed bread – pure happiness. For the main dish, just follow your heart… everything is good.
10. Pretop – Hipster Vibes & Roast Meat at Zemun Market
Pretop is for people who love places that are a little quirky, a little hipster and full of character. Located inside the Zemun flea market, it offers an atmosphere unlike any other. They serve pečenje (roast meat) with a selection of bubble wines – a combination that feels both rustic and chic. The quality is excellent, the flavors deep and smoky, and although the prices are on the higher side, it’s absolutely worth it for the experience.
11. Bosiljak – My Favorite Pizzeria in the City
If you love pizza, Bosiljak absolutely deserves a spot among the best places to eat in Belgrade. While many pizzerias offer similar styles, this one just hits different. Their mortadella & pistachio pizza is heavenly. The dough is perfect, toppings are generous and the flavors are balanced. A go-to spot for pizza lovers. They don’t take reservations.
12. Thyme – Indian Street Food Done Right
Someone will say I’m biased because I keep recommending Zemun places… and they might be right. Thyme has several locations, including one in Zemun and another in Banovo Brdo, but my favorite is Thyme Indian Food on Bulevar Kralja Aleksandra. It’s a street food concept with bold flavors, fresh ingredients and extremely satisfying portions. Whether you grab something quick for lunch or order a full dinner, the food is consistently delicious. No matter which location you choose, you’ll be happy.
13. Ćevap kod Dekija – The Best Stuffed Pljeskavica in Belgrade
This place is legendary – ask any local. If you are looking where to eat in Belgrade city center – you have just found it. Their stuffed pljeskavica is the best in the city, juicy, flavorful and perfectly grilled. If you prefer something classic, their ćevapi are fantastic too. Located in the city center, it’s always busy and sometimes you’ll have to wait, but trust me: it is worth every minute.
The Rise of Russian Spots in Belgrade: Cafés, Bars & Speakeasies
In the last 2 – 3 years, Belgrade has seen a huge rise in Russian-inspired cafés, bars, speakeasies, and restaurants – and they’ve become an essential part of the city’s food and drink culture. Many of them bring completely new flavours, creative cocktails and a different aesthetic that blends perfectly into Belgrade’s dynamic energy.
One of my absolute favorites is Idol Bar. God knows how much I love their cocktails – and how hard I try to order something new every single time I visit. The bartenders are incredible, the atmosphere is warm and intimate, and every drink feels like a little masterpiece. If you’re exploring the best places to eat in Belgrade and want to continue with amazing cocktails, Idol Bar is a must.
Another fantastic addition is Kissa10, a modern spot with a cool concept, stylish interior, delicious finger food, and seriously impressive cocktails. It’s the kind of place where you come for one drink and end up staying for the whole evening.
During the day, when you’re wandering through Dorćol’s narrow streets, make sure to stop by Sloj Bistro & Bakery – a cozy bakery café with excellent pastries and one of the best coffees in the area. It’s the perfect recharge spot between museum visits, walks, and restaurant hopping.
And after a longer walk along the Danube Quay, you can take a break at Peers, a relaxed place where you can enjoy lunch, snacks or drinks. It’s casual, friendly and a great addition to this guide to the best places to eat in Belgrade, especially if you’re exploring Dorćol on foot.
After you found out best places to eat in Belgrade, check this guide with 14 unique things you can do in Belgrade: Local Insider Tips.
Where to Go for a Drink in Belgrade, After Dinner
If you’re in the mood to keep the night rolling after a great dinner, Belgrade absolutely delivers. From creative cocktails to moody speakeasies and laid-back local favourites, these bars are perfect for sliding into “one more round” mode. Here are the places that genuinely deserve a spot on your night out:
RIDDLE Bar
A cozy, dim-lit cocktail bar tucked inside the city center, at the top of Skadarlija, RIDDLE is where you go when you want a proper cocktail made with care. Think smooth jazz, candlelight and cocktails that taste like someone really knows what they’re doing.
Noble Roots Bar
A stylish spot in the city center, with a strong mixology game. Noble Roots leans modern, minimalistic and slightly luxurious — ideal if you want elevated cocktails without the pretentious vibe. Great place for date nights or a polished night out with friends.
Pinecone Bar
Pinecone Bar is one of Belgrade’s most unique late-night spots – a dim, mysterious, atmospheric hideout where tarot cards decide your drink. Instead of ordering from a menu, you pull a tarot card, and each card represents a different cocktail. The bartender will not only mix your destiny-inspired drink but will also read a short interpretation of the card you drew – a fun mix of mixology and mysticism. It’s also one of the very few bars in Belgrade where smoking is strictly not allowed
Monk’s Bar
Craft cocktails meet a warm, slightly quirky atmosphere. Monk’s has that “local favourite” feel and is perfect when you want something cool but unpretentious. The bartenders here are really good.
Pietra
Yes, it’s a pizza place – but the cocktails are genuinely excellent. A relaxed, fun and easy going place for a drink if you’re already wandering Vračar. Great for people who love the mix of comfort food and creative drinks.
Docker Brewery
If you want something casual, Docker Brewery is the move. More than 50 local craft beers, a friendly atmosphere and plenty of space to chill. Fantastic stop after dinner if you prefer a pint over a cocktail.
Yama Sake Bar
A fresh addition to Belgrade’s nightlife, Yama Sake Bar is a stylish, modern space in the very heart of the city – and the perfect pick for anyone looking to try something different. The bar specializes in premium sake, offering a wide range of Japanese rice wines along with creative cocktails built on sake as the base spirit.
Feel free to write to me, which place did you check from my list and see you in the next article.
