BEST RESTAURANTS IN PULA

BEST RESTAURANTS IN PULA AND SURROUNDING AREA

1. JUPITER, a beloved spot among locals is the perfect place for tourists seeking the best food, excellent service, and affordable prices. Open year-round, this restaurant offers a DIVERSE MENU that includes great PIZZAS, PASTA DISHES, GRILLED OPTIONS, AND SEAFOOD delights. With such a wide variety of choices, Jupiter is an ideal dining destination for guests who may be unsure of what to indulge in

2. KONOBA BOCAPORTA is a charming konoba (tavern) that offers a taste of TRADITIONAL ISTRIAN CUISINE. This restaurant is highly regarded among locals for its authentic and flavorful dishes. Visitors can expect a menu that celebrates the culinary heritage of the region, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. The menu features ISTRIAN SPECIALTIES such as TRUFFLES, HOMEMADE PASTA, GRILLED MEATS, AND LOCALLY CAUGHT SEAFOOD. Vegetarian options are also available, showcasing the diverse range of ingredients found in Istrian cuisine. If you’re in Pula and looking to savor the flavors of traditional Istrian food, Bocaporta is a recommended choice that won’t disappoint.

3. GRILL BAR CAMPO is located a few kilometers outside the city, which makes it an ideal destination for those looking to enjoy a relaxing meal away from the urban hustle. Known for its TRADITIONAL BALKAN GRILL, Campo serves up delectable dishes like ĆEVAPI, STUFFED PLJESKAVICA, AND VARIOUS MEAT SPECIALTIES. The menu showcases a range of flavors and options for meat enthusiasts. With its affordable prices and flavorful offerings, Grill Bar Campo is a go-to destination for those craving authentic Balkan grilled delicacies in Pula.

4. EPULON offers a nice ambiance, an authentic dining experience, and a focus on showcasing TRADITIONAL ISTRIAN AND MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their menu boasts a wide variety of dishes, ranging from fresh seafood and hearty meat options to flavorful vegetarian choices. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared to highlight the natural flavors and pay homage to Istrian traditions.

5. ALIGHIERI BISTRO is a cozy restaurant that is known for its diverse selection of pasta dishes and is open year-round, providing a reliable dining option for locals and visitors alike. The menu showcases a VARIETY OF PASTA types, such as spaghetti, penne, and linguine, all prepared with delicious sauces and toppings. From rich and creamy carbonara to savory bolognese, each dish is carefully crafted with attention to detail. Alighieri Bistro also offers truffle-infused creations, adding an extra touch to the dining experience.

6. TIVOLI PIZZERIA offers a range of pasta dishes and remains open year-round, ensuring a consistent dining option. One of the standout features of Tivoli Pizzeria is its convenient location, with a large parking area nearby. Customers appreciate the quick preparation time of the dishes, as orders are promptly served without long waits. The menu at Tivoli Pizzeria features a variety of PASTA options, satisfying different tastes and preferences. In addition to that, they also offer a wide selection of FLAVORFUL PIZZAS, appetizing salads, and desserts. It’s a fantastic choice for satisfying your pasta cravings or enjoying a quick and delicious pizza in Pula.

7. KONOBA BATELINA, tavern located in Banjole, is a perfect choice for those seeking an AUTHENTIC AND FRESH SEAFOOD experience. With a focus on showcasing the daily catch, the menu offers a variety of carefully prepared fish specialties. The owner’s background in a fishing family ensures that the fish served at the restaurant is of the highest quality. From GRILLED FISH TO SEAFOOD STEWS AND TRADITIONAL ISTRIAN RECIPES, Batelina provides a range of options to satisfy seafood lovers. A visit to Batelina is not just a dining experience but also an opportunity to appreciate the rich culinary heritage of the region. The restaurant’s commitment to quality has earned it recognition, including a place in the Michelin Guide. It is advisable to make a reservation in advance to secure your spot at the restaurant.

8. HOOK and COOK is a popular STREET FOOD joint known for its delicious seafood offerings. The menu features FISH SANDWICHES, BURGERS, AND TACOS, all made with fresh and flavorful ingredients. The restaurant has an innovative approach to seafood and street food, catering to those looking for a light seafood snack rather than a full meal. The portions are designed to be enjoyed as a quick bite or a snack, making it an ideal choice for a casual dining experience with a great selection of local craft beers. It’s important to note that HOOk and Cook operates exclusively during the summer season.

9. WINE AND TAPAS BOCA BAR is a cozy restaurant located near Pula Cathedral. It offers a relaxed atmosphere and a selection of wines and tapas dishes.  Some typical dishes include cheese and charcuterie boards, bruschetta, olives, and various MEDITERRANEAN-INSPIRED TAPAS. Restaurant operates during summer season and in that period frequently hosts various events and live music performances, adding to the vibrant ambiance. Common events are wine tastings, themed nights, and local artist showcases.

10. STREET FOOD MINI MINI is a vegan and vegetarian restaurant that offers a variety of plant-based dishes. The menu features a range of flavorful options, carefully crafted to cater to VEGAN AND VEGETARIAN preferences. Guests can enjoy dishes such as vegan burgers, falafel wraps, fresh salads, and nourishing smoothie bowls. It’s worth noting that Mini Mini has specific operating hours, as it closes at 4 PM and is not open on weekends.

11. MARKAT is a budget-friendly eatery located in Pula’s market. It serves as a CANTEEN for workers and students. The focus is on providing warm and comforting homemade dishes that cater to those on a LOW BUDGET. Menu may include hearty soups, traditional stews, simple yet flavorful pasta dishes, and a selection of daily specials. The emphasis is on providing affordable, filling meals that are prepared with care and offer a taste of homemade cooking. Whether you’re a traveler on a tight budget or someone looking for a no-fuss, HOME-COOKED MEAL, Markat at Pula’s market provides a convenient and affordable option.

12. PANCAKE SHOP PULAČINKA specializes in serving a wide variety of PANCAKES. With a build-your-own pancake option, you have the freedom to CUSTOMIZE YOUR PANCAKE according to your preferences. The menu features both sweet and savory pancake creations, allowing guests to indulge in their favorite flavors. From classic combinations like Nutella and banana to unique combinations with cheese and prosciutto, there is something for everyone’s taste. It’s a great spot for pancake lovers looking for a simple and enjoyable dining experience.

STORES WITH AUTHENTIC PRODUCTS

LOCAL PRODUCERS AND STORES WITH AUTHENTIC REGIONAL PRODUCTS

1.VESNA LOBORIKA is a FAMILY DAIRY where production is based on the traditional production of ISTRIAN CHEESES, with the application of modern methods of cheese technology. They also produce extra virgin olive oil alongside the cheeses. At the dairy, they produce a wide variety of cheeses, including cottage cheese, mixed (cow and sheep) cheese, sheep cheese, goat cheese, cow cheese in olive oil, cow and sheep cheese with truffles, cow cheese with olives, cow cheese with green pepper, and cow cheese with hot chili peppers. The dairy is located just 7 km away from Pula, and their shop can be found at the Pula Market as well as in the village of Loborika. Whether you’re a cheese connoisseur or simply looking for a delicious local treat, their shop is definitely worth a visit.

2.FAMILY DISTILLERY AURA offers exclusive TRADITIONAL PRODUCTS such as BRANDIES, JAMS, and other traditional items made from wild herbs and fruits. These ingredients are carefully handpicked in an ecologically clean environment on the slopes of the Ćićarija mountain, far away from roads and inhabited settlements. Their production includes a range of interesting delicacies, including jams and brandies. Aura’s main goal is to ensure that their products maintain the same quality as those made by our grandmothers, who created homemade products without any preservatives or artificial ingredients. In addition to the traditional BISKA, MEDENICA, AND TERANINO, they produce over 20 different types of brandies and liquors. Their stores can be found all around the Istria region.

3.LOKALITET (Local.Eat.At) is a store and online marketplace showcasing LOCAL PRODUCTS FROM ISTRIAN FAMILY FARMS. Explore a diverse selection of authentic and fresh produce, from farm-fresh fruits and vegetables to homemade delicacies, all sourced directly from local OPG-s (FAMILY AGRICULTURAL BUSINESSES) in Istria. Enjoy the convenience of ordering these exceptional products through our user-friendly webshop.

4.PRŠUT. ULJE. VINO. SIR – the name of the shop, “PROSCIUTTO. OIL. WINE. CHEESE”, speaks for itself about the delicacies that can be purchased here. The shop offers products from Sanvincenti Family Farm, known for producing high-quality prosciutto and cured meats in Boškari. Additionally, they feature premium wines from local ISTRIAN WINEMAKERS AND A SELECTION OF CHEESES from local family farms.

5. MUSEUM OLEI HISTRIAE shop, over there you’ll discover the largest assortment of ISTRIAN EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OILS, as well as products sourced from family farms in Istria. The shop offers a wide range of options, showcasing the rich variety of flavors and aromas that come from the region’s olive groves.

AUTHENTIC FOOD

AUTHENTIC CROATIAN AND ISTRIAN CUISINE

1.KONOBA is a traditional Croatian tavern or trattoria, typically run by a family. It is a cozy and informal restaurant that offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. In Croatia, konobas hold a cult status and have been immortalized in numerous songs and stories, highlighting their cultural significance.

The menu of a konoba often includes HOMEMADE PASTA, FRESH SEAFOOD, GRILLED DISHES, “PEKA” (a traditional Croatian way of cooking meat and vegetables under a bell-shaped lid), as well as roasted lamb or suckling pig on a spit. The konoba dining experience allows you to savor AUTHENTIC CROATIAN CUISINE while enjoying the hospitality of a family-run establishment.

2.TRADITIONAL ISTRIAN PASTA is renowned for its simplicity and fresh flavors, available in a variety of different shapes and forms. The most popular homemade pastas in Istria are FUŽI, PLJUKANCI, POSUTICE AND NJOKI. These pastas are served with locally sourced ingredients such as truffles, wild asparagus, or Istrian pršut (prosciutto). FUŽI are long, thin pasta strands that are often enjoyed with rich sauces or seafood, while PLJUKANCI are hand-rolled, irregularly shaped pasta pieces typically served with hearty meat or game sauces. Another popular Istrian pasta dish is GNOCCHI WITH GOULASH, where soft potato dumplings are paired with a flavorful beef stew, showcasing the region’s diverse culinary offerings and providing a delightful and authentic culinary experience.

3.PEKA is a traditional Croatian dish prepared in a dome-shaped iron bell covered with hot coals, creating a unique method of SLOW-ROASTING MEAT, POTATOES, AND VEGETABLES. The most popular meats for peka are typically LAMB OR VEAL, known for their tender and flavorful results, while OCTOPUS is also a beloved option, offering a delicious and tender seafood alternative for peka enthusiasts.

4.BLACK RISOTTO WITH CUTTLEFISH, also known as “CRNI RIŽOTO OD SIPA” in Croatian, is a popular seafood dish in coastal regions of Croatia. This flavorful and visually striking dish gets its dark color from the ink of the cuttlefish, which is mixed with Arborio or Carnaroli rice, onions, garlic, white wine, and seafood broth. The tender pieces of cuttlefish, combined with the rich and savory flavors of the INK-INFUSED RICE, create a delicious and unique culinary experience. Served hot and garnished with parsley, this BLACK RISOTTO is a must-try for seafood lovers seeking a taste of the ADRIATIC CUISINE.

5.THE ISTRIAN PLATTER, OR ISTARSKA PLATA, offers a delightful assortment of local delicacies, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of the region. Istarski pršut, also known as ISTRIAN PROSCIUTTO, is a renowned dry-cured ham produced in the Istrian peninsula. It is made from carefully selected pork legs, which are salted, air-dried, and aged for an extended period. The ham develops a rich and complex taste, with a delicate balance of saltiness and sweetness, along with a subtle smoky aroma.

On the platter, you can find a variety of artisanal CHEESES such as creamy Istrian goat cheese, semi-hard cow’s milk cheese called “skuta,” and flavorful sheep’s milk cheese. These cheeses are complemented by slices of traditional ISTRIAN SAUSAGES and the region’s beloved OLIVES. This platter provides a TRUE TASTE OF ISTRIA, highlighting the region’s passion for fine cheeses, cured meats, and culinary craftsmanship.

6.ISTRIAN TRUFFLES are a prized gourmet treasure of Istria, characterized by their unique flavor and high value. These subterranean, tuber-like fungi are known for their distinct aroma and earthy taste. Highly sought after by food enthusiasts, Istrian truffles add a touch of luxury to various dishes, such as PASTA, RISOTTO, AND CHEESE. Their rarity and exceptional quality make them a true culinary gem of Istria, delighting gourmets and showcasing the region’s rich gastronomic heritage.

7.MANEŠTRA is a traditional ISTRIAN STEW that is highly regarded for its rich flavors and hearty nature. This rustic dish is typically prepared with a variety of vegetables, legumes, and cured meats, creating a robust and satisfying combination. The main ingredients often INCLUDE BEANS, POTATOES, CABBAGE, CARROTS, ONIONS, GARLIC, AND HERBS, simmered slowly to allow the flavors to meld together. Maneštra is known for its thick and comforting consistency, making it a perfect comfort food during colder months. It is often enjoyed with a drizzle of olive oil and served alongside crusty bread, completing the wholesome dining experience.

8.FRITULE are a traditional CROATIAN DESSERT resembling SMALL DOUGHNUTS. These bite-sized treats are made from a sweet batter infused with citrus zest and often contain raisins, flavored with rum or brandy. Deep-fried to a golden brown and dusted with powdered sugar, fritule are enjoyed during festive occasions and holidays, bringing a delightful sweetness to the palate.

9.BALKAN GRILL – ĆEVAPČIĆI (also known as ĆEVAPI) are mouthwatering grilled minced meat sausages that have captured the hearts and palates of Croatia and the entire BALKAN REGION. These delectable treats are made from a flavorful blend of ground beef, lamb, and spices. Shaped into small, finger-sized portions, they are expertly grilled to perfection. Served on a platter or plate, accompanied by soft and fluffy LEPINJA bread, diced onions, and a dollop of KAJMAK cream cheese or AJVAR relish, Ćevapi offer a harmonious blend of juicy, flavorful meat with a hint of smokiness. Whether enjoyed as a popular street food or as a beloved barbecue dish at home, Ćevapi are cherished throughout the Balkans for their delicious simplicity and versatility.

Best beaches in Pula and surrounding area

BEST BEACHES IN PULA AND SURROUNDING AREA

  1. VERUDELA is a popular tourist destination with many hotels and resorts. During the summer months, parking and the beaches can get crowded. However, free parking is available. Verudela area offers several stunning beaches, including:
  • HAWAIIAN BEACH – a small and beautiful pebble beach surrounded by lush greenery and pine trees, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.
  • AMBRELA BEACH is a family-friendly pebble beach with crystal clear water, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. It’s also a popular spot for water sports and has beach bars and restaurants nearby.
  • VERUDELA CANYON -is a small rocky beach surrounded by high cliffs, perfect for snorkeling and cliff diving enthusiasts, as well as for taking amazing photographs. Next to the canyon is a spot called “Holy Stone”, which is a great place to watch the sunset.
  • LIGHTHOUSE BEACH – a secluded and quiet rocky beach that offers beautiful views of the Adriatic Sea. The beach is a great spot to watch the breathtaking sunsets either from the shore or the top of the nearby restaurant.
  1. LUNGOMARE is a rocky beach and a popular seaside promenade that stretches for 5 kilometers. The promenade is lined with shady pine trees and several cafes, great for enjoying a refreshing drink with a great sea view. In the central part of the promenade is GORTANOVA BAY, a pebble beach perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The crystal-clear water and picturesque surroundings make it an ideal spot for a relaxing day by the sea.

3.STOJA BEACH offers a unique and untamed experience for those seeking to escape the commercialization of typical resort areas. One of the highlights of this beach is GALEBOVE STIJENE, (“Seagull Rocks”) a rocky area with a popular cave to explore and opportunities for cliff diving. Visitors appreciate the natural and unspoiled surroundings of the beach, as well as the crystal-clear water perfect for swimming and snorkeling. This is a must-visit spot for nature lovers, but keep in mind that there are no hotels or resorts in the area, so be sure to bring your own refreshments and amenities.

 

  1. HIDROBAZA is a popular city beach with a long stretch of coastline extending towards FAŽANA. The beach is mostly pebbly and spans several kilometers, with ample parking available and all necessary amenities, including volleyball and basketball courts, a skate park, and beach bars. It’s an excellent place for families to spend the day, but be warned that shade is limited, so it’s recommended to bring your own umbrella or arrive early to secure a spot. During summer beach also hosts a variety of events such as concerts and street food festivals, providing visitors with a unique and lively experience.

5.CAPE KAMENJAK is a natural park located on the southern tip of the Istrian Peninsula just 15 kilometers away from the city of Pula. Spanning approximately 30 kilometers, the coastline of Cape Kamenjak is home to rocky cliffs, hidden coves, and beautiful beaches, all surrounded by the crystal-clear waters.