The 10 Best Restaurants In Sarajevo's Old Town, Bosnia And Herzegovina

Dveri is a homely restaurant with an unusual but nonetheless cozy interior theme. The seating is primarily indoors but diners will find themselves surrounded by climbing plants and colorful flowers, all within what seems to be a countryside cottage. The food is traditional Bosnian fare, with dishes such as goulash or sausage stew – in other words, comfort food that is in keeping with the theme of the restaurant. There is also an excellent wine list, a selection of craft beers, plus plenty of options for vegetarians (a rare find in Sarajevo).

Miris Dunja is a popular spot with Sarajevo’s young and fashionable crowds, thanks to its modern interior and relaxed vibe. It offers traditional lighter options and snacks, plus an enticing range of pastries that go perfectly with classic Bosnian coffee. The inside of the restaurant is quaint, but with only a few tables – the best spots to sit are the tables outside, which are ideal for people-watching. It is located in the pedestrianized area of the Old Town, near a number of popular attractions.

For a real taste of one of Bosnia’s most traditional dishes, burek, Buregdžinica Sac is an excellent choice. Burekis pastry filled with meat, cheese or potato, and is enjoyed by Bosnians at any time of the day. This burekrestaurant is open for business all day, which makes it an ideal spot for a cheap lunch or dinner, and it is usually bustling with locals. Grab a table here for an authentic meal in the most historic area of the city.

Barhana is one of the most atmospheric dining spots in the area, thanks to its courtyard packed full of tables that are always full come evening time. The restaurant offers a range of classic Bosnian dishes as well as some more familiar offerings, and a good range of light lunches too. The portions are large and excellent value for money. It’s also a great spot to try some rakija, a traditional spirit that is not for the faint-hearted – Sarajevska beer is also available as a safer option.

Pod Lipom is a relaxed restaurant offering a number of dishes that are traditional to the region. It is located in a side street in the Old Town, so although it is central it is quieter than other tourist hotspots. The building is a traditional Ottoman structure, with a small terrace area with a few tables outside. The food is served on traditional silverware, and there is an extensive range of dishes which vary from budget to fine-dining, so there is something for every occasion. Bill Clinton has also been a guest here, so it comes highly recommended.

As one of the few pizza joints to be introduced to Sarajevo after much of the city was destroyed during the civil war, Pekara Kovaci kod Mahira has a legendary status in the city. While it is not a restaurant as such (there are no tables, but plenty of nearby benches), a pizza from this place cannot be missed. Although pizza doesn’t seem particularly Bosnian, the pizzas have a slightly different twist and include a number of unfamiliar Bosnian toppings, such as authentic smoked ham, cheese, and a selection of tasty sauces.