Situated by the bank of the river Sava, Savamala is one of the most ancient neighborhoods of Belgrade. Today it’s famous for traditional hallmarks, historic ruins, and a vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re up for a traditional dinner or a taste of fusion cuisine, Savamala has it covered. We have selected the 10 best restaurants around.
Restoran Vuk
Guests at Vuk will be welcomed by a vibrant, lively atmosphere. If you are looking for a quiet evening, this is not the place to go. The space has an easygoing outlook with bright decorations, and it’s famous for being overcrowded. The best things you can try are traditional roasts and kajmak, the creamy water buffalo cheese. Vuk isn’t for everyone, but an ideal choice for enterprising travelers who fancy engaging with Serbian everyday culture. If you have a taste for adventures and love friendly environments, this is absolutely a must.
If you’re a jazz lover and fancy some refined entertainment and excellent food, don’t even think twice. Iguana restaurant mesmerizes visitors with its beautiful perspective on the river Sava and its vibrant atmosphere, young and elegant at once, which has met with enthusiastic acclaim by locals and tourists. It’s perfect for a light dinner with friends while some of the greatest Serbian musicians perform on stage. The menu offers a perfect sample of Belgrade’s modern cuisine and a fantastic selections of European wines, ranking at the top of the jazz bar/restaurant list in the country. Absolutely worth it.
This curious bistro, named “?” is Belgrade’s oldest kafana, a typical Serbian bistro. Its name was chosen because of a quarrel between the first owner and the bishop of the Cathedral standing opposite to it. Besides the fine quality of the food, a good example of Belgrade’s traditional cuisine, ? is all about historical interest. This small welcoming place, which was added to the Protected Monuments of Culture list in 1981, opened almost two centuries ago in the artistic neighborhood of Kosančićev Venac. The restaurant is absolutely fascinating as it still preserves all the charm of 19th century Belgrade.
A casually designed environment with bright walls and modern lamps, Gnezdo Organic is perfect for those who are looking for a relaxed dinner or a light lunch. This restaurant offers a wide choice of gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan products, a rarity in a country famous for its meat dishes. All ingredients are strictly organic and the house is committed to the promotion of a healthy lifestyle, combining a dynamic attitude with positive jazz and soul sounds. Also noticeable is their selection of drinks and juices, all from natural ingredients, of course. Whether you fancy some tasty tofu kebabs with millet, almond and cranberries or an organic chicken with grilled apples, this place is worth a go.
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A modern space facing the famous Bulevar kralja Aleksandra, Belgrade’s longest metropolitan street, Madera restaurant has always been a meeting point for bohemians, journalists and artists, who were named maderaši due to their love for the ‘exotic’ Madeira wine. The kitchen offers a high-quality mix of traditional and international cuisines, combining a wide selection of sushi, fresh salads, grilled meats and Serbian cheese. It’s the perfect place to discover the excellence of Balkan wines, like the dry white Žilavka or the full-body Movia Veliko Rdeče, which you can savor in the elegant, flowery garden of this fascinating restaurant.
This small gourmet paradise is one of the four Zavičaj restaurants in Serbia. Its exquisitely ethnic environment, featuring national tassels and chequered tablecloths, is enriched by a background of folk music. The kitchen is proud to offer high standard food, selecting only fresh ingredients, and stands out for its domestic beef, lamb meats, and homemade sausages. This place provides a taste of traditional Serbia at very affordable prices. Although it might look a bit touristy, the warm experience has been praised by a variety of critics and visitors.
Deli 57
Though recommended for any time of day or night, Deli 57 is most convenient for nice breakfasts and light lunches. This place offers high standard food with speed and quality: good coffees, delicious pancakes, handmade sandwiches and delicatessen, all served by a friendly and enthusiastic stuff. Particularly noted for its bagels and home-prepared pastas, Deli 57 has met with great appreciation by locals and foreigners, who praise it as a must-try in town.