Where To Eat In Zagreb Right Now: 5 Trending Restaurants Locals Love

Where To Eat In Zagreb Right Now: 5 Trending Restaurants Locals Love

Zagreb’s food scene is in a sweet spot: still relaxed and affordable, but increasingly creative. These five restaurants are trending thanks to high ratings, steady review growth, and the kind of atmosphere that keeps both locals and travelers coming back.

Pod Zidom Bistro - Modern bistro by the market

Pod Zidom Bistro sits just off Dolac Market, which means the kitchen has first pick of whatever is freshest that morning. With a 4.7 rating and more than 2300 reviews, it has long been respected, but its growth score and steady recent reviews show it is still gaining momentum rather than coasting on its reputation.

The menu leans into modern Croatian bistro cooking: seasonal vegetables, Adriatic fish, and upgraded comfort dishes that feel both familiar and new. Expect short, focused menus and daily specials that change with the market. The wine list highlights small Croatian producers, a big reason wine lovers keep flagging this spot in new reviews.

Why it is trending now:

• Market-driven plates that change often keep locals coming back.
• Strong word of mouth and review growth signal it as a current go-to, not just a tourist default.
• Warm, unfussy service and a cozy interior make it ideal for long lunches near the city center.

Tip: Book ahead for dinner and aim for a table inside if you want to watch the open kitchen energy.

Esplanade Zagreb Hotel - Classic glamour with serious food

Esplanade Zagreb Hotel is one of the city’s grand landmarks, and its dining spaces are finally getting the online attention they deserve. With a 4.7 rating and over 3300 reviews, the hotel has always been popular, but its growth score shows a new wave of diners posting about its restaurants and terrace experiences.

Inside, you get old world elegance: high ceilings, white tablecloths, and polished service that feels special without being stiff. The hotel’s main restaurant and lounge lean on refined Croatian and Central European dishes, often with a lighter, updated touch. It is a favorite for business dinners, romantic nights out, and long, indulgent brunches.

Why it is trending now:

• Travelers are seeking “destination hotel dining” and discovering Esplanade’s food is as strong as its architecture.
• Instagram friendly interiors and terrace shots are driving fresh interest.
• Consistent reviews in the past month show it is not just a historic icon but an active dining hotspot.

Tip: If you are not up for a full tasting style dinner, drop in for afternoon tea, a dessert, or a cocktail at the bar to sample the atmosphere.

Bistro Fotić - Relaxed city center favorite

Bistro Fotić has a loyal local following that keeps growing. With a 4.6 rating and more than 1200 reviews, it is firmly established, yet its growth score and new reviews suggest it is still on the upswing, especially among travelers looking for something more personal than a big hotel restaurant.

The vibe is casual and welcoming, with a bistro style menu that covers everything from hearty daily specials to lighter options and good coffee. It is the kind of place where you can have a slow lunch, a simple dinner, or just a glass of wine and a dessert without feeling rushed.

Why it is trending now:

• Central location makes it an easy meet up spot for locals and visitors.
• Consistent quality and fair pricing show up repeatedly in new reviews.
• Friendly staff and a “neighborhood living room” feel make it a repeat choice rather than a one time stop.

Tip: Check the daily specials and ask for recommendations, since regulars say the off menu or limited dishes are often the best.

BioMania Bistro Zagreb - Plant forward and health focused

BioMania Bistro Zagreb is one of the city’s standout options for plant based and health minded dining. With a 4.9 rating and more than 1400 reviews, it has some of the strongest feedback in town, and its growth score shows that interest in vegetarian and vegan friendly spots in Zagreb is rising fast.

This is where you go for colorful bowls, creative veggie mains, and organic focused ingredients without feeling like you are sacrificing flavor. Even non vegetarians mention in reviews that they leave full and happy. The space is bright and modern, attracting remote workers at lunch and younger crowds in the evening.

Why it is trending now:

• High rating plus steady new reviews signal it as a must visit for plant forward travelers.
• Growing demand for gluten free and vegan options in Zagreb pushes it to the top of many search lists.
• The bistro style approach makes healthy eating feel casual and fun, not strict or formal.

Tip: Peak lunch hours can be busy, so arrive early or be ready to wait a little if you want a specific table.

Stari Kotač 2 - Hearty Croatian comfort food

Stari Kotač 2 is all about generous portions and traditional flavors, and locals clearly approve. With a 4.8 rating and more than 2300 reviews, it is one of the city’s best loved spots for classic Croatian fare, and its growth score shows that new diners keep discovering it.

Expect grilled meats, rich stews, and rustic sides that feel like a countryside meal in the city. The atmosphere is relaxed and a bit nostalgic, the kind of place where families gather and groups linger over long dinners. Portions are big, so come hungry or plan to share.

Why it is trending now:

• Strong ratings and steady new reviews make it a top pick for “traditional food in Zagreb” searches.
• Comfort food appeal is high with both locals and visitors looking for something authentic but not touristy.
• Good value for money keeps it in heavy rotation for regulars.

Tip: Make a reservation for weekend evenings, when groups and celebrations can fill the space quickly.

Planning your Zagreb restaurant list

Zagreb’s restaurant scene rewards curiosity. Use these five spots as anchors for your trip: mix a market driven lunch at Pod Zidom Bistro, a glamorous night at Esplanade Zagreb Hotel, a relaxed meal at Bistro Fotić, a plant focused stop at BioMania Bistro Zagreb, and a hearty feast at Stari Kotač 2.

MapsBuddy helps you find places like these while they are still gaining momentum, not after they are fully booked weeks in advance. Save your favorites, track what is trending, and stay a step ahead of the crowds in Zagreb and beyond.