4 Best Restaurants in Central Dalmatia, Croatia

At one of the best fine-dining restaurants on the Makarska Riviera, it's clear that time and care have gone into creating the two tasting and wine-pairing menus. The expert food preparation—blending seafood and meat with locally grown and forage flavors like olives and broad beans—can match many of Croatia's most awarded restaurants. Located 3 km (2 miles) above Makarska in Tučepi on the road to Biokovo, Jeny has an elegant ambience and a terrace with a beautiful view overlooking the Makarska Riviera.  The management is happy to call a taxi to bring you to the restaurant.

A carefully restored 14th-century palazzo opposite the historic Cathedral of St. James is home to this magnificent award-winning restaurant. The seasonal six-course prix-fixe tasting menu (there is no à la carte option) features traditional Dalmatian cuisine that is innovatively prepared and beautifully presented, with exquisite flavor being the restaurant's guiding principle. Service is impeccable, the atmosphere unique, and the wine list is a thorough presentation of local and international labels. Guests can also request a unique on-sea dining experience with a personal chef aboard the Pelegrini boat.

A seven-minute drive from the Old Town, Kadena serves Mediterranean seafood and meat dishes with a contemporary twist in a modern space. Don't miss Dalmatia's trademark salata od hobotnice (octopus salad) as an appetizer, and enjoy pairings with the rich wine list, full of local and global liquid treasures.

Located right on the ACI Marina in Split, Zrno Soli means "grain of salt." This sophisticated spot serves elegantly presented fare—both fish and some meat options—including tasting menus with the freshest seafood options that can (and should) be accentuated with wine.