Eat Near Plitvice Lakes National Park. Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the most stunning places in Croatia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is famous for its 16 crystal-clear lakes that flow into each other through a series of beautiful waterfalls. Wooden walking paths take you over turquoise water, past mossy rocks, and through green forests.
The park changes with the seasons lush and green in summer, golden in autumn, and sparkling with snow in winter. Wildlife like deer, birds, and even bears live in the surrounding woods. Whether you’re hiking, taking photos, or just enjoying the fresh air, Plitvice is a magical place. After exploring, you’ll definitely want a tasty meal with a relaxing view nearby.
Eat Near Plitvice Lakes National Park
1. Lička Kuća Restaurant
Location: Entrance 1, Plitvice Lakes National Park
Lička Kuća is a charming, traditional restaurant just outside the park’s main entrance. The building looks like an old wooden lodge, and it fits perfectly into the natural surroundings.
What makes this place special is its open fire grill in the middle of the restaurant. You can see the chefs cook your meal in front of you.
They serve authentic Lika region dishes. Try the roasted lamb, homemade sausages, or cheese from local farms. The bread is also homemade.
You can sit on the outdoor terrace and enjoy the forest view. In autumn, the trees turn orange and red, making it a magical place to eat.
2. Bistro Vučnica
Location: Mukinje Village, about 2 km from Entrance 2
This bistro is a small, cozy place with a big outdoor area. It’s part of a ski resort in winter, but in summer, it offers peaceful green views.
The menu is simple but tasty. They serve grilled meats, pasta, fresh salads, and pizza. Portions are big, and prices are reasonable.
The best thing? You can sit under the trees, surrounded by hills and wildflowers. It feels quiet and close to nature.
3. Restaurant Plitvice
Location: Inside Hotel Jezero, near Entrance 2
This restaurant is perfect for those staying inside the park or nearby. It’s part of Hotel Jezero, one of the most popular hotels in the area.
The large windows give you a view of the lake and forest. If you get a seat by the window, you can watch the birds and trees while you eat.
They offer a buffet and à la carte menu. The food includes local and international dishes like grilled trout, pork medallions, and vegetable risotto.
It’s great for a relaxing dinner after a long day of hiking.
4. Ethno Garden Restaurant
Location: Plitvica Selo, near Entrance 3
Ethno Garden is part of a small family-run hotel in the village. It looks like a little mountain cottage, surrounded by gardens and woods.
You’ll love the peaceful view from the terrace. You can see the green hills, forest, and sometimes even deer walking nearby.
The restaurant serves traditional Croatian food. Try the bean stew, baked veal, or homemade apple strudel. Most ingredients come from nearby farms.
It’s also a great place for breakfast before entering the park from the less-crowded side.
5. Restoran Degenija
Location: Seliste Dreznicko, about 5 km from Entrance 1
This restaurant is part of a small hotel, just a short drive from the park. It has a modern design but still feels warm and welcoming.
There’s a big outdoor terrace with views of the nearby hills. It’s a peaceful place to enjoy a meal.
The menu is full of Croatian favorites like grilled meats, truffle pasta, and fresh river fish. Don’t miss their homemade cakes!
Many visitors say the food quality here is excellent, and the service is friendly.
6. Bistro & Pizzeria Sapina
Location: Grabovac, about 7 km from the park
Sapina is a casual spot that’s great for families. It has a nice outdoor area with flowers, trees, and views of the countryside.
The main dishes are pizzas, pasta, grilled meats, and fresh salads. It’s a good place if you’re craving something simple and comforting.
People like to come here in the evening to watch the sunset over the fields. It feels peaceful and local.
7. Old Shatterhand
Location: Rakovica, about 10 km from the park
This is a themed restaurant inspired by the Wild West. It’s fun and different. You’ll see cowboy hats, wooden chairs, and old-fashioned decorations.
What’s surprising is the view! You can sit on the deck and look at the hills and open land all around. It feels wide and free, like a cowboy movie.
They serve grilled steaks, burgers, BBQ ribs, and big salads. The portions are huge. Kids love it too.
8. Hotel Degenija Lounge Bar
Location: Next to Restoran Degenija
This is a more modern, stylish place to enjoy a light meal or drink. The outdoor seating area is shaded and overlooks a green valley.
They serve sandwiches, desserts, coffee, and cocktails. It’s a perfect stop for a mid-day break or evening drink.
The view is best during sunset when the sky turns pink behind the hills.
9. Villa Lika Restaurant
Location: Mukinje Village
This is a quiet and elegant restaurant inside Villa Lika guesthouse. It’s only a few minutes from the park entrance.
The dining area is cozy with big windows. Outside, there’s a garden with views of the nearby hills and trees.
They serve gourmet Croatian meals like slow-cooked beef, fresh trout, and wild mushroom soup. Ingredients are seasonal and fresh.
The peaceful setting makes it ideal for a romantic dinner or a quiet family lunch.
10. House Katarina Garden Dining
Location: Smoljanac Village, about 5 km from the park
This place feels like visiting a friend’s country home. It’s a family-run guesthouse, and they serve homemade meals on request.
You eat in the garden, surrounded by flowers and trees. Birds are singing, and the air smells fresh.
The food is made with love—soups, stews, grilled meats, and local cheese. They even make their own jam and honey.
It’s a quiet, personal experience and one of the hidden gems near Plitvice.
Tips:
- Reservations are a good idea in peak season (June–September).
- Many places close early in the evening, so check the opening times.
- Cash is preferred in some small village restaurants.
- Try the local Lika plum brandy (šljivovica) or herbal liqueur if you’re over 18.
Conclusion
Eating near Plitvice Lakes National Park can be more than just filling your stomach. With the right spot, your meal becomes part of the adventure.
Whether it’s a cozy mountain inn, a forest terrace, or a modern lounge with sunset views, each place on this list offers something special. So take your time, relax, and enjoy the natural beauty of Croatia one bite at a time.
FAQs
1. Are there restaurants inside Plitvice Lakes National Park?
No, there are no full-service restaurants inside the park itself. However, there are snack bars and small cafés near the main entrances and at rest points within the park.
2. What kind of food can I expect near Plitvice?
Most restaurants near Plitvice Lakes serve traditional Croatian and Lika-region dishes. You’ll find grilled meats, roasted lamb, fresh trout, soups, stews, and homemade bread. Some places also serve pizza, pasta, and international food.
3. Are vegetarian or vegan options available?
Yes, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes like grilled vegetables, salads, pasta, and soups. Vegan options may be limited in smaller village restaurants, but bigger places usually offer a few choices.
4. Do I need a reservation?
In high season (June to September), it’s a good idea to make a reservation, especially for dinner. Restaurants near the main entrances can get busy.
5. Are the restaurants family-friendly?
Yes, most restaurants near Plitvice are family-friendly and offer large portions, outdoor seating, and a relaxed atmosphere. Some places even have play areas or space for kids to run around.
6. What are the typical restaurant hours?
Most restaurants open around 11:00 AM and close by 10:00 PM. Some smaller places may close earlier or take a break in the afternoon.
