Rovinj Food
What and Where to Eat in Rovinj?
We spent a month in Rovinj researching what local foods to eat and where to eat them. We’ve compiled a summary of the information we collected so you can start enjoying these foods as soon as you arrive!
Significantly, Rovinj is a fishing port. So, it is not surprising that the variety of fresh seafood is the distinguishing characteristic of Rovinj food. “Catch of the Day” is served at every restaurant in town. If you tire of fresh fish or want red meat to pair with your red wine, Istasrki Boskarin is a local meat used in many traditional dishes in Rovinj.
If you want to cook your dishes, there are a couple of markets worth visiting in the Old Town. The Green Market has multiple vendors selling fresh fruits, vegetables, and other local products. Also, the Pescheria has fresh fish and seafood.
This website contains affiliate links that may earn us a small commission at no additional cost to you.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Main Courses
Local Food Products in Rovinj
The food in Rovinj is based on fresh local ingredients such as olive oil, truffles, seafood, and locally grown vegetables.
Seafood
The most common local fish are red scorpionfish (škarpina), Dentex (zubatac), European seabass (lubin/brancin), John Dory (kovač), European pilchard (srdela), sea bream (orada), and monkfish (grdobina).
Prawns and squid are also very popular.
Istarski Boskarin
Istarski boškarin is a native Istrian cattle breed characterized by its gray coat and white muzzle.
Boškarin meat has a distinctive flavor and aroma. It is a delicacy that is eaten as steak, made into salami, and used in stews that are typically paired with local pasta such as fuži and pljukanci.
Fuzi
Fuži is a traditional Istrian pasta. To form the distinctive shape, the dough is rolled out into a thin sheet, cut into strips, and placed over each other. Then, the strips are cut diagonally to produce diamond shapes. Finally, the sheet is folded, pinched, and two ends are stuck together, forming a bow-like shape.
Pljukanci
Pljukanci is a traditional Istrian pasta. The simple pasta dough is made from flour, salt, hot water, and a small amount of olive oil. The shape is hand-formed by rolling the dough between the palms. The pasta should be long and thin at the edges, with the middle part thicker and plumper.
Pljukanci is typically served with a meat sauce.
Truffles
Istria is Croatia’s undisputed truffle capital. Although Motovun is arguably the epicenter, plenty of truffles and truffle products have found their way down to Rovinj.
Honey
Istrian honey is one of the region’s best-known food products. In fact, it is officially recognized as a product of distinct geographic origin and is included on Croatia’s list of protected indigenous products.
Olives and Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Olives have been a staple of Istrian agriculture for more than 2000 years. There are numerous local olive varieties including: istarska belica, buža, karbonaca, črnica, žižolera, rošinjola, puntoža, leccino, frantoio, moraiolo, pendolino, and picholine.
Istrian extra virgin olive oil is produced by crushing the olives and extracting the juice without any other refining process.
Istrian olive oil is unique for its bright, fruity green aroma and flavors.
Traditional Dishes in Rovinj
Rovinj food is a blend of traditional Istrian cuisine with a modern twist. The Istrian Peninsula is known for its culinary traditions and Rovinj has been able to capture the essence of it in its dishes.
Appetizers
Istrian Prsut
Istrian pršut is a traditional cured and dried ham. Its production is more straightforward than other similar meats because it is not smoked and is processed without its skin.
It is typically served thinly sliced with fresh bread and sheep or goat milk cheese.
Main Courses
Catch of the Day
One or more whole fish are baked or grilled and served with an assortment of shellfish. A variety of fish can be found on menus around town, including red scorpionfish, seabass, sea bream, and John Dory.
For those less adventurous, fish fillets are available.
Buzara
Buzara is prepared by cooking seafood in olive oil and wine seasoned with garlic and fresh herbs.
Fuzi s Boskarinom
Fuži s boškarinom is a traditional Istrian pasta dish. The sauce is traditionally made using boškarin meat, onions, garlic, tomatoes, red wine, flour, olive oil, bay leaves, marjoram, salt, and black pepper. As the name suggests, it is served with fuži pasta.
Local Markets in Rovinj
Green Market
In 1960, the Green Market was moved to its current location in Valdibora Square. The market was significantly renovated and expanded in 2003.
The market is a must-visit for foodies who want to explore the local food scene. It offers fresh fish, local produce, homemade jams and chutneys, and truffles. These fresh ingredients are used in many of the top restaurants to create delicate creations and dishes that highlight the local flavors and traditions.
Address: Ul. Giuseppea Garibaldija, 52210, Rovinj, Croatia
Pescheria
The seafood market is located in the back corner of the Green Market.
The market may not be that big, but it is filled with all the fresh catch of the day!
Restaurants in Rovinj
The Old Town of Rovinj has a variety of restaurants catering to all budgets and tastes. Whether you’re looking for fine dining or casual eateries, Rovinj has an abundance of good food and friendly staff that will ensure you have the best time. Following is a list of the best Rovinj restaurants:
Monte
Monte is a fine dining restaurant – and one of only two restaurants in Rovinj with a Michelin star. This is the perfect place to find great food for a special occasion!
Address: Ul. Montalbano 75, 52210, Rovinj, Croatia
La Puntulina
La Puntulina is a family-run restaurant perched on a rocky spur with superb views of the Adriatic Sea.
Address: Ul. Sv. Križa 38, 52210, Rovinj, Croatia
Agli Amici Rovinj
Agli Amici Rovinj is in the Grand Park Hotel Rovinj at the marina just outside the Old Town. By all accounts, this is a great place with great service.
Address: Šetalište Vijeća Europe 1-2, 52210, Rovinj, Croatia
Cap Aureo Signature Restaurant
If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the Old Town during the high season, Cap Aureo Signature Restaurant might be just what you’re looking for! The glass-walled terrace on the fifth floor of the Grand Park Hotel Rovinj offers a spectacular view of the marina and the old town of Rovinj.
In addition to many international wines, the wine list includes many local wine labels.
Address: Smareglijeva ulica 1A, 52210, Rovinj, Croatia
Kantinon Tavern
Kantinon Tavern is a popular dining spot in Rovinj, known for its delicious food and rustic interiors. It has a harbor-side terrace that offers stunning views of the waterfront. It is a must-visit place for those who want to enjoy traditional Istrian dishes while enjoying the beautiful cityscape of Rovinj.
Address: Obala Alda Rismonda 18, 52210, Rovinj, Croatia
Male Madlene
Male Madlene is a small restaurant in Rovinj that takes less than a dozen guests at a time. Despite its size, it offers some of the best food in the city. Male Madlene is known for its bite-size haute-cuisine and fine dining atmosphere. One of its specialties is the Male Madlene dessert, a type of pastry originating from Istria. Male Madlene is perfect for those who prefer personalized service and intimate dining experiences.
Address: Sveti Križ, Santa croce 28, 52210, Rovinj, Croatia
Konoba Jure
Konoba Jure is a must-visit restaurant for food lovers. It offers delicious local cuisine just ten minutes away from the Old Town.
If you want to experience the best of Croatian cuisine and don’t mind sacrificing the sea views, you should add this restaurant to your list of places to visit in Rovinj!
Address: Cademia ul. 22, 52210, Rovinj, Croatia
Food Tours in Rovinj
Want to learn about local food in Rovinj? Book a highly-rated food experience!
FAQs About Rovinj Food
Does Croatia have nice food?
Croatia is known for its delicious Mediterranean cuisine that features fresh seafood, grilled meats, and a variety of locally grown fruits and vegetables. Some popular Croatian dishes include cevapi (grilled minced meat), pasticada (slow-cooked beef stew), and sarma (stuffed cabbage rolls).
Additionally, Croatian cuisine has been influenced by neighboring countries such as Italy and Hungary, resulting in diverse flavors and culinary traditions. So, if you love Mediterranean food, you might enjoy trying some traditional Croatian dishes.
What is the best place to eat in Rovinj?
There are many great places to eat in Rovinj, depending on your preferences and budget. The best places in the heart of Rovinj offer outdoor seating on their terraces, providing a picturesque setting to enjoy your meal.
Check out our list of the best restaurants in Rovinj for specific recommendations.
What Is Rovinj Most Famous For?
Rovinj is known for its crystal-clear waters, cobblestone streets, and excellent food and wine.
Is Rovinj, Croatia Worth Visiting?
Which area to stay in Rovinj?
Some popular areas for tourists to stay in Rovinj include the Old Town and the waterfront area, which offer easy access to restaurants, shops, and attractions.
Where Is the Best Place to Stay in Rovinj?
Hotels in Rovinj
For the best experience and to be near the best restaurants, we recommend staying near or in Rovinj Old Town. The castle marker in the map below is the top of the Old Town.
For 5-star beach experiences, check out Grand Park Hotel Rovinj and Hotel Monte Mulini. Both have multiple pools, beach access, and stunning views within a 10-minute walk of the Old Town. Whether you’re a budget or luxury traveler, Rovinj has accommodation options to fit everyone’s needs.
Here’s an interactive map with hotel and apartment options that can be filtered to meet your needs. Select your travel dates to get specific availability and prices.
Book your stay now!