Michelin Star Restaurants: Central Croatia

Croatia's culinary scene has been gaining international acclaim, with several restaurants earning prestigious Michelin stars. These establishments, spread across various regions, offer exceptional dining experiences that highlight the country's rich gastronomic heritage. Currently there are 10 Michelin-starred restaurants in Croatia. In a new series we will go region by region and introduce you to their locations, and the exquisite cuisines they offer. Today we are examining the three Michelin starred restaurants in Central Croatia.

NOEL:

We begin our list with Noel, a One Michelin Star restaurant located in the heart of Croatia's capital, Zagreb. The city of Zagreb has been known for its vibrant cultural scene and historic landmarks for years now. It is a non-skipable destination when visiting Croatia. The city is the one place in Croatia where you can experience almost all types of Croatian cuisine. For that reason Zagreb has a flourishing and expansive culinary scene. This includes restaurants like Noel.

In Noel’s kitchen, the spotlight is on fresh, locally sourced seasonal ingredients, which they elevate through the application of refined culinary techniques to create exceptional dining experiences.

The restaurant's staff is guided by their passion, dedication, years of expertise, and an unwavering enthusiasm for gastronomy. This commitment to excellence earned Noel the distinction of becoming the first restaurant in Zagreb to receive a Michelin star—an achievement the restaurant has proudly held since 2019.

Noel specializes in modern European recipes with a focus on Croatian ingredients, offering both à la carte and tasting menus.

The restaurant has a very modern vibe that drips with luxury and style. The restaurant is the perfect spot for someone who wants to experience a blend of traditional flavors with contemporary techniques, complemented by a curated wine selection.

DUBRAVKIN PUT:

Dubravkin Put is a prestigious fine-dining restaurant in Zagreb, Croatia, proudly holding one Michelin star. Nestled in a serene woodland setting near Tuškanac Park, just a short walk from the city center, the restaurant offers a refined yet relaxed dining experience that harmonizes nature with culinary artistry. 

The menu, curated by a talented team of chefs, emphasizes contemporary Mediterranean and Croatian cuisine, using the finest locally sourced ingredients to craft dishes that balance tradition and innovation. Guests can indulge in exquisitely plated tasting menus featuring fresh Adriatic seafood, premium meats, and seasonal vegetables, complemented by an extensive selection of Croatian and international wines. 

The elegant, minimalist interior enhances the overall ambiance, creating an intimate atmosphere perfect for gastronomic indulgence. With its impeccable service, sophisticated flavors, and a deep respect for local culinary heritage, Dubravkin Put stands as a must-visit destination for gourmet enthusiasts exploring Zagreb.

KORAK WINERY:

Korak Winery, located in the picturesque wine region of Plešivica near Jastrebarsko, Croatia, is a family-run estate renowned for its dedication to organic and biodynamic winemaking. 

With a deep respect for tradition and terroir, the Korak family produces elegant and expressive wines, including world-class sparkling wines, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and indigenous Croatian varieties. Their vineyards, nestled on the sun-drenched slopes of Plešivica, benefit from a unique microclimate that enhances the complexity and depth of their wines. In addition to winemaking, Korak Winery offers an exceptional gastronomic experience at their restaurant, where guests can enjoy refined, locally inspired dishes paired with their wines. 

This combination of top-tier winemaking and culinary excellence makes Korak a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts. These three Michelin-starred restaurants exemplify Croatia's diverse culinary landscape, each offering a unique dining experience rooted in regional traditions and enhanced by contemporary artistry. Whether you're a local or a visitor, exploring these establishments promises a gastronomic journey through the heart of Croatia. But this is just the start. In our next article we will continue exploring Croatia’s Michelin-starred restaurants and our next region is Istra.

‍