Ljubljana: A Culinary Hotspot for Food Lovers
In recent years, Ljubljana has blossomed into a must-visit destination for foodies from all over the world. The capital of Slovenia offers a unique blend of traditional flavours and modern culinary innovations, catering to a wide range of tastes, including an increasing number of vegan options. Whether you are a local or a visitor, exploring Ljubljana's food scene is an experience you don't want to miss.
Ljubljana – A Rising Star in the Culinary World:
BBC recently ranked Ljubljana among the top ten culinary destinations for food lovers to visit this year. Slovenia’s vibrant food scene has flourished, particularly in its capital, where a renewed passion for food culture has driven chefs and restaurateurs to elevate their offerings. With an increasing number of tourists visiting Ljubljana, the city's restaurants have embraced local ingredients and traditional Slovenian dishes while incorporating contemporary twists.
Traditional Ljubljana Dishes:
If you are looking for an authentic Slovenian culinary experience, be sure to try these traditional Ljubljana dishes:
Beef soup – A comforting classic
Beef tongue – A delicacy enjoyed by locals
Kranjska klobasa – The famous pork and bacon sausage
Pražen krompir – Traditional Slovenian sautéed potatoes
Sirovi štruklji – Rolled dough filled with cottage cheese
Apple strudel – A sweet pastry favorite
Orehova potica – A beloved Slovenian walnut cake
Many of these dishes can be sampled by joining the Food Tour Ljubljana, where you can embark on a culinary journey through the city's best flavors. Tours and trips | Visit Ljubljana
Looking for the best places to eat in Slovenia’s capital? Here are some top recommendations:
Slovenska Hiša & Slovenska Hiša Figovec & Slovenska Hiša Ljubljančanka
“Restaurants where Slovenian food and drinks find their home” – this is how Slovenska Hiša describes itself. Offering only locally sourced Slovenian dishes and drinks, this spot is perfect for those looking to indulge in a traditional yet modern dining experience.
Open Kitchen Ljubljana (Odprta Kuhna):
Though not a restaurant, Open Kitchen Ljubljana is a must-visit for food lovers. Operating every sunny Friday from mid-March to October at Pogačarjev Square, this open-air market brings together around 60 of Slovenia’s best eateries. Whether you're looking for traditional Slovenian classics, fine dining, or international dishes, Open Kitchen offers a little something for everyone.
NEBO Show Restaurant: Experience fine dining, live entertainment, and unforgettable moments above the city! In the show restaurant Nebo, on the sixth floor of Nama building, where you can go up with a panoramic elevator, you will not only have a unique view, but also a wonderful atmosphere and excellent culinary indulgence. Pamper your taste buds with meat, fish or vegetarian dishes and amazing cocktails. Nebo Show Restaurant
More Top Restaurants in Ljubljana:
Gostilna Šestica – The oldest and largest in Ljubljana, continuously operating since 1776. Offers European, Slovenian, and Eastern European cuisine with vegetarian and gluten-free options.
La Petit Café – A charming spot near Križanke, famous for the best breakfast in town
EK Bistro & Bazilika – Ideal for Saturday brunch
Barbarella & Kucha – The best vegan restaurants in Ljubljana
Lolita – A must-visit for delightful desserts
Cubo restaurant - offers a refined dining experience with Mediterranean-inspired creative dishes and excellent service, perfect for any occasion.
Where to Eat Like a Local: If you want to enjoy beer and burgers like the locals, Pivnica Union near Tivoli is a great choice. For a more traditional Slovenian experience, visit Gostilna Kovač, Čompa, Druga Violina, Hiša Pod Gradom, Breg or Pr’Kopaču.
Best Pizza Spots in Ljubljana: For pizza lovers, try Kruhkerija Gorjanc, Top Pizza, Fugazi, Argentino, Pr Picopeku, Peruzza, Trappa, or Ta’Dobra pizza. If you’re in the old town, head to Fetiche Pizza, Naša Hiša, Foculus, Gostilnica 5-6 kg, Piccola, Verace, Pops Place Pizza, Osmica, Trta, or Ljubljanski Dvor.
Best Burgers in Ljubljana: Bite into some of the city's best burgers at Hood Burger, Hot Horse, Lars and Sven Burgers, Park Žibert Drive In, Smash Burger, Pops Burger, Super Pšanc Burger, or IN Burger.
Vegan & Vegan-Friendly Options: For plant-based foodies, the top spots include Barbarella Plant-Based & Juice Bar, Grashka Deli, Vegashi, Fari’s, Gaudi & Naan, Piccola Café, Bistro Maha, Veganika, Mandala, and Vse Dobro.
Best International Cuisine: Try Patrón Tacos & Bar, Malvon, Argentino, Taqueria Unomas, Ondoori Street Food, or Barra for a taste of the world in Ljubljana.
Best Balkan Food: Enjoy Balkan flavors at 10 v pol, Gostilna Čad, Das Ist Walter, Gostilna Dubočica, Gostilnica Vinka, Baščaršija Etno Hiša, Gostilna Portal, Čewapi (Citypark), Sarajevo ’84, and Chevap House by Chef Duje Pisac.
Best Street Food: For quick and delicious bites, visit Ajda Fast Food, Burek Olimpija, Fari’s, Klobasarna, McDonald’s, Namaste Express, Šeherezada, Super Pšanc, KFC, or Nobel Burek.
Conclusion: Ljubljana’s culinary scene is booming, and whether you're looking for traditional Slovenian flavors, international cuisine, or delicious street food, the capital has something to offer. With renowned restaurants, open-air food markets, and hidden gems, Ljubljana truly is a paradise for food lovers. So, next time you visit, make sure to explore the local food scene and taste the best the city has to offer!
Ljubljana Restaurants. Restaurants and Cafes in Ljubljana