Herceg Novi Food
Explore Herceg Novi Food: Restaurants, Street Food & Food Markets
Whether you’re sitting at a waterfront table with views over the Bay of Kotor or wandering the Old Town’s cobbled streets, Herceg Novi food is all about fresh ingredients, Mediterranean flavors, and a touch of Balkan heartiness.
Seafood is the undisputed highlight here — grilled fish, mussels, octopus salad, and the famous black risotto all feature prominently on local menus. Yet you’ll also find traditional Montenegrin meats, cheeses, and rustic dishes from the inland mountains, making the cuisine as diverse as the country’s landscape.
For those who like to cook, the Herceg Novi City Market is stocked with seasonal produce, cheeses, cured meats, olives, and fish — perfect for preparing your own Montenegrin feast. And if you prefer to leave the cooking to the locals, the Old Town and seafront promenades are full of excellent restaurants at prices far more reasonable than in other Adriatic hotspots.
We spent a month in Herceg Novi tasting our way through seafood taverns, local markets, and family-run konobas to discover the best food this Adriatic gem has to offer. This guide highlights the most traditional foods, the best markets, and our favorite restaurants, along with tours and practical tips to help you explore Herceg Novi through its cuisine.
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Traditional Food in Herceg Novi
Dining in Herceg Novi is shaped by its position on the Bay of Kotor and its role as a cultural crossroads. Here, Mediterranean seafood traditions meet hearty Balkan flavors, with influences from Italian, Turkish, and Austro-Hungarian cuisines all leaving their mark.
A typical meal might start with a plate of Njeguški pršut (smoked ham) and local cheeses, move on to freshly grilled Adriatic fish or shellfish cooked in a rich buzara sauce, and finish with a sweet treat accompanied by Montenegrin wine or rakija.
Seafood is at the heart of Herceg Novi food culture, but you’ll also find rustic inland favorites like kačamak (cornmeal with cheese or cream) and pašticada (a slow-cooked beef stew). This balance between coastal and mountain dishes is what makes Montenegrin cuisine so distinct.
Montenegro Food
Montenegro’s food reflects its varied geography — mountains, valleys, and a long Adriatic coastline. While inland regions specialize in lamb, veal, dairy products, and hearty stews, the coast celebrates seafood, olive oil, and Mediterranean herbs. Herceg Novi, with its location at the gateway to the Bay of Kotor, is a showcase for the coastal side of Montenegrin cuisine.
For a deeper look at Montenegro’s culinary traditions, including its most famous products and national dishes, check out our Montenegro Food page.
Restaurants in Herceg Novi
Herceg Novi has no shortage of inviting restaurants, from stone-walled taverns in the Old Town to waterfront terraces with sweeping views of the Bay of Kotor. Seafood dominates the menus, but you’ll also find hearty Montenegrin meat dishes, pastas, and Mediterranean flavors. Most restaurants feature outdoor seating — perfect for enjoying the sea breeze and lively evening atmosphere.
Konoba Feral
Address: 4 Vasa Ćukovića, Herceg – Novi
Located in the Old Town, Konoba Feral is a long-time favorite for locals and visitors. The menu leans heavily on seafood — the seafood platter with fresh fish and octopus salad is a standout. With friendly service, excellent value, and a cozy atmosphere, it’s one of the most popular restaurants in town.
Konoba Škver
Address: bb Pet Danica Walkway, Herceg Novi 85340
Set right on the waterfront promenade, Konoba Škver is known for tuna steaks and grilled fish specialties. It’s a relaxed spot to enjoy a meal after strolling the marina.
Konoba Risan
Address: FG2P+G9C, Herceg Novi
A highly rated local tavern offering traditional Montenegrin dishes with a focus on seasonal and regional ingredients. Rustic charm and hearty meals make it a great stop if you want an authentic experience.
Portofino Bistro
Address: Marka Cara, Herceg – Novi
Tucked into Bellavista Square, opposite the church, Portofino Bistro is praised for its Mediterranean menu and attentive service. A stylish yet welcoming choice, perfect for lunch or dinner.
Gradska Kafana
Address: Njegoševa 31, Herceg Novi
Gradska Kafana pairs traditional Montenegrin cuisine with one of the best terraces in town. From its hilltop position, diners enjoy panoramic views over the Bay of Kotor while savoring fresh seafood and classic local dishes.
Konoba Kruso
Address: Šetalište 5. Danica, Herceg – Novi 85340
Situated directly on the seaside promenade, Konoba Kruso offers freshly caught fish, seafood risottos, and pastas, alongside local wines. The sea views and lively walkway atmosphere make it a popular spot, especially in the evening.
Food Markets in Herceg Novi
Markets are at the heart of Herceg Novi’s food culture. They’re where locals shop for seasonal produce, homemade cheeses, and fresh fish straight from the Adriatic. For travelers, they’re a great place to pick up picnic supplies or simply soak in the daily rhythm of the town.
Herceg Novi City Market
Gradska Pijaca Herceg Novi
Address: FG2P+QGV, Herceg Novi, Montenegro
The City Market is the main farmers’ market in town, located in the center of Herceg Novi. It’s lively in the morning, when locals shop for seasonal fruits and vegetables, dried figs, olives, honey, olive oil, and local cheeses. The offerings change with the season, so in the summer you’ll see bright berries, stone fruits, and tomatoes, while autumn brings nuts and root vegetables.
It’s also a great place to pick up regional specialties to take home, like herbal teas, rakija (fruit brandy), or preserved vegetables.
Fish Market
Ribarnica
Address: FG2P+QGV, Herceg Novi, Montenegro
Located alongside the City Market, the Fish Market is small but always stocked with the day’s fresh catch from the Adriatic Sea. Expect to find squid, mussels, sea bass, and sardines, all displayed on ice. If you’re staying in a self-catering apartment, this is the perfect place to buy fish for grilling at home.
Food Tours in Herceg Novi
If you’re short on time or want a deeper look into Berat’s food culture, consider joining a local food tour or cooking class. These experiences often include stops at family-run restaurants, tastings of regional specialties, and insights into traditional cooking methods.
Book one of the best food tours in Berat!
Best Places to Stay in Herceg Novi
Hotels in Herceg Novi
For the best experience, we recommend staying close to the Old Town or along the Pet Danica Promenade. Both areas put you right in the heart of Herceg Novi’s charm, with easy access to restaurants, cafés, and the Adriatic waterfront.
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.
FAQs About Herceg Novi Food
What food is Herceg Novi known for?
Seafood is the star of Herceg Novi’s cuisine. Black risotto, made with squid ink, is a signature dish you’ll find in most seafood restaurants. Grilled fish, octopus salad, and mussels in buzara sauce (garlic, tomato, and white wine) are also local favorites.
What are some traditional Montenegrin dishes I can try in Herceg Novi?
Beyond seafood, you’ll find hearty inland dishes such as njeguški pršut (dry-cured ham), kačamak (cornmeal with cheese or cream), and pašticada (slow-cooked beef stew with red wine and prunes). These highlight Montenegro’s mix of coastal and mountain traditions.
Are vegetarian options available in Herceg Novi?
Yes. While menus lean heavily on seafood and meat, many restaurants serve vegetable-based dishes, fresh salads, bean stews, and pasta with Mediterranean flavors. The city markets also make it easy to find seasonal fruits, cheeses, and breads for a lighter meal.
What is the street food like in Herceg Novi?
Street food is simple but satisfying. Expect to find Balkan classics such as burek (savory pastry with cheese, meat, or spinach), grilled kebabs, and sandwiches filled with pršut and local cheese. Bakeries and casual kiosks are the best places to sample them.
Is food expensive in Herceg Novi?
Food in Herceg Novi is generally affordable compared to Western Europe. Waterfront restaurants may cost a bit more, especially with sea views, but traditional konobas and market stalls offer excellent value for money.
What wine goes best with local food?
Montenegrin wines are an excellent pairing with Herceg Novi’s food. Vranac, a bold red, is ideal with grilled meats and hearty stews, while Krstač, a crisp white, pairs beautifully with fresh seafood.
What is the street food like in Herceg Novi?
Street food is simple but satisfying. Expect to find Balkan classics such as burek (savory pastry with cheese, meat, or spinach), grilled kebabs, and sandwiches filled with pršut and local cheese. Bakeries and casual kiosks are the best places to sample them.
Herceg Novi offers a culinary experience infused with Mediterranean charm and Montenegrin tradition. Seafood dominates the menus, complemented by olive oil, herbs, and fresh produce from the surrounding hills. From casual meals at the City Market to seaside dining on the promenade, every bite connects you to the rhythms of the bay. Herceg Novi’s food is simple, flavorful, and best enjoyed slowly, with a view of the Adriatic stretching before you.