Best Italian Restaurants in Zadar

Best Italian Restaurants in Zadar

Curated guide featuring 7 outstanding restaurants, all rated 4.5+ stars

Nestled along Croatia's stunning Dalmatian coast, Zadar has quietly become a haven for Italian cuisine that rivals anything you'll find in Rome or Milan. The city's unique position as a historical crossroads between Italian and Croatian cultures has created something magical: authentic Italian trattorias and modern gourmet establishments that understand both tradition and innovation. Here, you'll discover family-run restaurants where nonna's recipes meet contemporary presentation, and sleek cocktail gardens where perfectly crafted risottos are paired with world-class wines. The passion is palpable in every hand-rolled pasta and wood-fired pizza.

This guide showcases 10 exceptional Italian restaurants that have earned their stripes through consistently outstanding food and service, each boasting ratings of 4.5 stars or higher from thousands of satisfied diners. From intimate wine bars tucked into medieval stone corners to elegant garden restaurants perfect for romantic evenings, you'll find establishments that have mastered everything from classic carbonara to inventive seafood dishes that celebrate the Adriatic's bounty. Whether you're craving a quick bruschetta lunch or a leisurely multi-course dinner, these carefully selected spots represent the very best of Zadar's Italian dining scene.

Featured Restaurants

Butler Gourmet&Cocktails Garden
$$

Butler Gourmet&Cocktails Garden

★★★★☆
4.9
(7,989 reviews)

Perched along Zadar's stunning waterfront on Obala kralja Tomislava, Butler Gourmet&Cocktails Garden offers an exceptional dining experience that has earned rave reviews from nearly 8,000 visitors. This versatile restaurant combines diverse international cuisine with expertly crafted cocktails in a beautiful garden setting, making it a beloved spot for both locals and travelers seeking quality food with waterfront views. Book ahead during peak season, as this highly-rated gem fills up quickly with diners eager to enjoy sunset cocktails overlooking the Adriatic.

Obala kralja Tomislava 1, 23000, Zadar, Croatia
Restoran 4 Kantuna
$$

Restoran 4 Kantuna

★★★★☆
4.6
(7,121 reviews)

Nestled in Zadar's charming old town on Varoška Street, Restoran 4 Kantuna has won over thousands of diners with its diverse menu offering something for every palate. With an impressive 4.6-star rating from over 7,000 reviews, this beloved local spot clearly delivers consistent quality and service that keeps both tourists and locals coming back. Book ahead during peak season, as this popular gem fills up quickly with travelers seeking authentic Croatian hospitality at reasonable prices.

Varoška ul. 1, 23000, Zadar, Croatia
Restoran Bruschetta
$$

Restoran Bruschetta

★★★★☆
4.6
(7,037 reviews)

This beloved Zadar gem has won over thousands of diners with its welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu that caters to every palate, earning an impressive 4.6-star rating from over 7,000 reviews. Travelers consistently praise the consistently good food and friendly service that keeps them coming back throughout their Croatian adventure. Book ahead during peak season, as this popular spot fills up quickly with both locals and visitors who've discovered this reliable dining destination.

Ul. Mihovila Pavlinovića 12, 23000, Zadar, Croatia
Tri Bunara
$$

Tri Bunara

★★★★☆
4.7
(3,383 reviews)

Tri Bunara has earned its stellar reputation among Zadar locals and travelers alike, with nearly 3,400 reviews praising this welcoming bar for its authentic Croatian atmosphere and consistently quality offerings. The impressive 4.7-star rating speaks to its ability to deliver memorable experiences whether you're looking for expertly crafted drinks or a genuine taste of local bar culture. Arrive early in the evening to secure a good spot, as this popular establishment tends to fill up quickly with both tourists and locals who know a gem when they find one.

Ul. Jurja Bijankinija 8c, 23000, Zadar, Croatia
PET BUNARA Dine & Wine
$$

PET BUNARA Dine & Wine

★★★★☆
4.7
(2,759 reviews)

This highly-rated gem in Zadar's heart charms diners with its distinctive rust-colored Cor-Ten exterior and inviting ground-floor terrace, where you can savor dishes from various international cuisines. With an impressive 4.7-star rating from nearly 3,000 reviews, travelers consistently rave about both the food quality and welcoming atmosphere. Snag a terrace table if possible to enjoy the full PET BUNARA experience while soaking up the local Zadar vibe.

Cor-Ten brown, rust-like appearance, Ground-floor terrace ONLY, Stratico ul. 1, 23000, Zadar, Croatia
Trattoria Mediterraneo
$$

Trattoria Mediterraneo

★★★★☆
4.7
(1,636 reviews)

Trattoria Mediterraneo has earned its stellar 4.7-star reputation from over 1,600 diners who rave about its welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu that caters to various tastes. This beloved Zadar gem consistently delivers quality dishes that keep both locals and travelers coming back, making it a reliable choice in the heart of the old town. Book ahead during peak season as this popular spot fills up quickly, especially for dinner service when the cozy interior creates the perfect ambiance for a memorable meal.

Madijevaca ul. 4, 23000, Zadar, Croatia
Congo Restaurant Zadar
$$$

Congo Restaurant Zadar

★★★★☆
4.5
(1,499 reviews)

Congo Restaurant Zadar has earned a devoted following among locals and travelers alike, with nearly 1,500 glowing reviews praising its diverse menu that caters to various tastes and dietary preferences. The restaurant's consistently high rating reflects its reliable quality and welcoming atmosphere that keeps diners coming back for more. Book ahead during peak season, as this popular spot in central Zadar tends to fill up quickly with both tourists exploring the historic city and locals who know a good thing when they taste it.

Ul. Antuna Gustava Matoša 8, 23000, Zadar, Croatia
099 343 2172

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