Savour the Flavours: 8 Must-Try Restaurants in Ljubljana, Slovenia
Slovenian cuisine is heavily influenced by the country’s neighbouring regions, including Italy, Austria, and the Balkans. Traditional Slovenian dishes include jota (a hearty bean and sauerkraut soup), štruklji (rolled dumplings with various fillings), and potica (a sweet bread filled with nuts or other ingredients). The country is also known for its cured meats, cheeses, and wines.
In recent years, Ljubljana has developed a vibrant food scene with a range of restaurants offering everything from traditional Slovenian cuisine to international flavours. The city has a strong focus on local and seasonal ingredients, with many restaurants sourcing their produce from nearby farms and markets. Some popular restaurants in Ljubljana include JB Restaurant, which offers contemporary Slovenian cuisine, and TaBar, which specialises in Slovenian wines and small plates.
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JB Restaurant
Website | Menu | Style: European, Slovenian, Central European | Cost: $$$$
Where: Mikloshicheva cesta 17, Ljubljana
JB Restaurant is a fine dining establishment located in the heart of Ljubljana’s Old Town. It is known for its innovative approach to traditional Slovenian cuisine, with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients. The restaurant offers both à la carte and tasting menus, which showcase a range of flavours and textures inspired by Slovenian culinary traditions.
The interior of JB Restaurant is elegant and modern, with an open kitchen where guests can watch the chefs at work. The menu changes frequently to reflect the seasons and the availability of local ingredients, and the restaurant also offers an extensive wine list featuring Slovenian and international wines.
Some standout dishes at JB Restaurant include the roasted lamb with potatoes and wild herbs, the venison with blackberry sauce and celeriac puree, and the roasted pumpkin with goat cheese and honey. The attentive service and attention to detail make JB Restaurant a must-visit for anyone looking for a special dining experience in Ljubljana.
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Pri Skofu
Website | Style: Mediterranean, European, Slovenian | Cost: $$-$$$
Where: Rechna ulica 8, Ljubljana
Pri Skofu is a cozy and charming restaurant located in the heart of Ljubljana’s Old Town, just a few steps away from the iconic Triple Bridge. The restaurant specializes in traditional Slovenian cuisine, with an emphasis on using fresh, local ingredients to create delicious and hearty dishes.
The interior of Pri Skofu is warm and inviting, with a rustic decor that reflects the restaurant’s commitment to using traditional cooking methods and recipes. The menu features a range of classic Slovenian dishes, such as jota (a hearty soup made with beans, sauerkraut, and smoked pork), idrijski zlikrofi (a type of stuffed pasta), and kranjska klobasa (a type of sausage).
One of the standout dishes at Pri Skofu is the roasted pork knuckle, which is slow-cooked to perfection and served with sauerkraut and homemade mustard. The restaurant also has a great selection of Slovenian wines and beers to complement the meal. With its cozy atmosphere and delicious food, Pri Skofu is a great choice for anyone looking to experience traditional Slovenian cuisine in Ljubljana.
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Druga Violina
Website | Menu | Style:European, Slovenian, Central European | Cost: $
Where: Stari trg 21, Ljubljana
Druga Violina is a unique restaurant located in the heart of Ljubljana, just a short walk from the Triple Bridge. What sets this restaurant apart from others is its social mission: it employs people with disabilities, giving them the opportunity to gain work experience and integrate into the workforce.
In addition to its social mission, Druga Violina is also known for its delicious food, which features a mix of traditional Slovenian cuisine and international dishes. Some of the popular dishes on the menu include goulash soup, grilled chicken, and burgers. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are also available.
The atmosphere at Druga Violina is warm and welcoming, with a cozy interior and outdoor seating during the warmer months. The staff is friendly and attentive, making sure that every guest feels at home. Not only is the food great, but knowing that you’re supporting a good cause while you dine makes the experience even more special.
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TaBar
Website | Menu | Style: Mediterranean, European, Wine Bar | Cost: $$-$$$
Where: Ribji trg 6, Ljubljana
TaBar is a trendy restaurant located in the heart of Ljubljana, just a short walk from Prešeren Square. It’s known for its inventive tapas-style dishes, which feature a mix of international flavours and Slovenian ingredients. The menu changes frequently, depending on what’s in season, but you can expect to find dishes like tuna tartare, crispy pork belly, and grilled octopus.
The atmosphere at TaBar is modern and chic, with sleek decor and an open kitchen. The restaurant also has a great selection of Slovenian and international wines, as well as cocktails and craft beers. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and happy to make recommendations based on your preferences.
While the prices at TaBar are on the higher side, the quality of the food and the dining experience make it well worth it. Whether you’re looking for a romantic date spot or a place to gather with friends, TaBar is definitely worth a visit.
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Kodila Meet Meat Market
Website | Menu | Style: Slovenian, Eastern European, Central European | Cost: $
Where: Adamic Lundrovo Nabrezje 5, Ljubljana
Kodila Meet Meat Market is a unique foodie destination in Ljubljana, Slovenia. This specialty store and restaurant is dedicated to showcasing the best of Slovenian meat products, with a focus on artisanal and locally-sourced meats. Whether you’re looking for a delicious lunch or want to stock up on high-quality meat to take home, Kodila Meet Meat Market is a must-visit for food lovers.
The store offers a wide selection of meats, from traditional cured sausages to unique cuts of beef and pork. You can also enjoy a meal at their restaurant, where the focus is on simple but delicious meat dishes, made with the highest quality ingredients. If you’re looking for a true taste of Slovenian cuisine, Kodila Meet Meat Market is a great place to start.
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Pop’s Place Burger Bar
Website | Menu | Style: American, Barbecue, Gastropub | Cost: $$-$$$
Where: Cankarjevo nabrezhje 3, Ljubljana
Pop’s Place Burger Bar is a popular restaurant in Ljubljana that specializes in serving mouth-watering burgers. Located in the city centre, it’s a favourite spot for tourists and locals alike. The menu features a variety of classic and creative burgers, using fresh and high-quality ingredients. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available, ensuring that everyone can find something they’ll enjoy.
In addition to their delicious burgers, Pop’s Place Burger Bar offers a great selection of sides, including fries, onion rings, and sweet potato fries. The restaurant also has a selection of local and international beers and wines to complement your meal. The casual atmosphere and friendly staff make for a relaxed and enjoyable dining experience. If you’re a burger lover, a visit to Pop’s Burger Bar is a must when in Ljubljana.
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Klobasarna
Website | Menu | Style: Fast food, European, Slovenian | Cost: $
Where: Ciril-Metodov trg 15, Ljubljana
Klobasarna is a small eatery in the heart of Ljubljana that specializes in serving traditional Slovenian sausages, or “klobase” in Slovenian. This simple yet delicious food is a favourite among locals and tourists alike. Klobasarna offers a variety of sausages made with high-quality meat and spices, served in a fresh bun with a variety of toppings. Their signature dish is the “Kranjska Klobasa”, a savoury sausage made with pork and bacon, seasoned with garlic and pepper.
Aside from their mouth-watering sausages, Klobasarna also offers a selection of side dishes such as potato salad and sauerkraut, as well as a range of local beers and wines to pair with your meal. The atmosphere is cozy and informal, with a few tables and a bar-style seating area. The friendly staff is always happy to help you choose the perfect sausage and answer any questions about Slovenian cuisine. If you’re looking for an authentic Slovenian food experience, be sure to check out Klobasarna.
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Hot Horse Tivoli
Website | Menu | Style: Quick Bites, Fast food | Cost: $
Where: Celovshka cesta 25 Park Tivoli, Ljubljana
Hot Horse Tivoli is a fast-food chain in Ljubljana known for its unique and controversial specialty: horse meat burgers. The restaurant is located in Tivoli Park, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists to grab a quick bite while exploring the city.
The menu at Hot Horse Tivoli features a variety of burgers made from horse meat, as well as vegetarian options for those who prefer not to indulge in this particular meat. Along with the burgers, they also offer a range of sides, including fries, onion rings, and salads.
While some may be hesitant to try horse meat, it is a traditional food in Slovenia and many other European countries, and Hot Horse Tivoli has received positive reviews for the quality of their burgers. So if you’re feeling adventurous and want to try a unique and culturally significant dish, Hot Horse Tivoli is definitely worth a visit.
Ljubljana is a city that offers an array of culinary delights that will leave your taste buds wanting more. From traditional Slovenian dishes to international cuisine, there is something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a fine-dining experience or a quick bite to eat, the restaurants in Ljubljana offer a unique and memorable dining experience. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as the horse meat burgers, and explore the city’s culinary scene. With so many great restaurants to choose from, you are sure to have an unforgettable gastronomic experience in Ljubljana.
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