Practical information : Take a break Croatia
Timetable
In tourist areas, cafés-bars and restaurants are generally open non-stop from 9am to midnight or 1am, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. If the establishment turns into a party venue, it may close later into the night, especially in Zagreb, in the larger cities and on the Adriatic coast ( beach bars in particular).
Budget & Tips
Coffee is a ritual. In fact, all Croatians drink a lot of coffee! We start the morning with a small espresso, black without sugar, or a long espresso with more water, at the same price (€1 to €2), or a double espresso, twice as much coffee, twice as expensive. For macchiato, tell the waiter whether you want hot or cold milk. Instant coffee, with water or milk, and bagged cappuccino, mixed with water and/or milk, have their fans here. Much better is the homemade coffee, with espresso and hot milk whipped into a creamy froth. As in Italy, hot chocolate is thick and drunk with a spoon. Teas and infusions, which have more flavor than in France, are served with a honey pod. Try a green tea with red berries or chamomile, for example. All these hot drinks are accompanied by cakes and pastries in tea rooms, unless you've already been to a boulangerie-pâtisserie(pekarna).
Age restrictions
The legal age for purchasing and consuming alcoholic beverages in Croatia is 18 years.
What's very local
Everyone has their own recipe for brandy(rakija) or cognac(vinjak)! In cafe-bars, you can still order a small glass as an aperitif, made with grapes(loza), plums (šljivovica) or aromatic herbs(travarica). Istrian grappa with honey(medica) or mistletoe(biska) rivals in flavor the carob brandy from the island of Vis(rogačica). Originating in Zadar, the famous cherry liqueur (maraschino) is a must, even offered as an afternoon snack, as is the aniseed-flavored herbal liqueur(badel pelinkovac gorki) or the dessert wine(prosecco).
Smokers
Since 2009, smoking has been prohibited in public places and restaurants in Croatia. However, there is a tolerance for coffee bars.
Tourist traps
In cafe-bars, unlisted prices may vary depending on whether you're a tourist or a local. To avoid being cheated, ask for the menu and check the price of drinks before ordering.