The best French cuisine restaurants Croatia

A big sensation in 2021 when the restaurant and café lounge on the top floors of the new Hilton hotel complex opens. First, the view, one of the most splendid in Rijeka, embraces the entire harbor and the Kvarner Gulf. Then the young chef, Deni Srdoč, in his thirties, who combines traditional elements with modernity, while remaining under the classic Italian-French influence. He has already acquired a Michelin star. Several a la carte menus. Book well in advance to savor the dining experience close to the bay windows.

This is the gourmet table that is the talk of Opatija. Since 1997, owner Daniela Kramarić has made her restaurant one of the most awarded addresses in Croatia. Twice elected national champion of the "best sommelier in Croatia", the restaurateur is among the greatest in her category in Central and Eastern Europe. Among the must-try dishes of the house, the risotto with scampi, truffles or wild asparagus in season, the tricolored taglioni with scampi, the tortellini with sea bass in foie gras sauce. Reservations are essential.

If you go far from Jelacica Square, think of making a jump to this address in the inner courtyard of a small lane on the left just before McDonald's. It's a bar bar hosted by Richard and Samuel, two friendly French from the southeast who will make a healthy and varied food. You will find a wide selection of salads and sandwiches, French dishes such as ratatouille or pick, and of course their famous chocolate soufflé. Good appetite.

With its marble, colonnade and panoramic terrace overlooking the gulf, the architect-designed building impresses, as does the champagne bar. You feel like you're on an elegant cruise in this 5-star hotel, which also has a lounge bar and a fine restaurant. The chef emphasizes local and organic products, the fisherman's table, the refined desserts, all of which are prepared in a graphic and very careful manner. Good wine list too. The restaurant is open to all and serves until midnight.

On the heights of Rijeka, in the village of Kastav, this luxury establishment was opened by slow-food chef Nenad Kukurin. While the management offers comfortable rooms for your stay on site, it is above all for the restaurant that the address is renowned. Here, we appreciate the originality of the recipes, which blend traditional Mediterranean cuisine with French gastronomy. Creativity indeed, but the bill is high too.

Founded in 1886, Proto is one of the oldest establishments in the old town. Renovated a few years ago, it has retained its historic patina. On the walls, engravings show the plans of the Republic of Ragusa. You can also sit in the alleyway or on the roof terrace. Dalmatian classics and refined recipes are served here. For example: whole lobster with fresh pasta, white fish court-bouillon, lamb and braised vegetables. All under the direction of Croatian chef Boško Lonac.