Žabljak is not only a destination for outdoor enthusiasts but also a hidden treasure for food lovers, offering a mix of traditional Montenegrin and international cuisine.
Žabljak is a picturesque town nestled in the heart of Montenegro’s Durmitor National Park, renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes and serene atmosphere. This town attracts adventurers with its hiking trails, ski slopes, and numerous outdoor activities, but it’s also a must-visit spot for food lovers eager to savor the rich flavors of Montenegrin cuisine and beyond.
The unique charm of Žabljak lies in its blend of rustic traditions and modern comfort, reflected in its selection of restaurants. Here, you can enjoy traditional Montenegrin dishes, lovingly prepared with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, as well as international cuisine crafted with a regional twist. It’s the ideal destination to immerse yourself in authentic tastes, fresh mountain produce, and time-honored recipes passed down through generations.
It’s important to note that, like many mountain resorts in Montenegro, the restaurant scene in Žabljak is influenced by the seasonal nature of tourism. Most establishments operate during the high season, catering to the influx of visitors during summer and winter, and may have limited availability during quieter months. However, this seasonality only adds to the town’s charm. During peak months, the restaurants in Žabljak offer not only exceptional food but also an unforgettable atmosphere of mountain serenity, crisp air, and stunning vistas. If you’re planning a trip to Žabljak, be sure to explore its culinary offerings for a perfect complement to your adventures in this extraordinary region.
Overview of Restaurants in Žabljak
Hotel Soa Restaurant
About the Restaurant
Set amidst stunning natural surroundings, Hotel Soa Restaurant in Žabljak offers a dining experience like no other.
This elegant eatery is perfect for those seeking a refined dining atmosphere, featuring a menu inspired by Eastern European cuisine. Popular dishes include truffle pasta, truffle pizza, and the T-bone steak. During the warmer months, request a table on the terrace to savor your meal with the breathtaking backdrop of Durmitor National Park.
Price range: ## - ##
Guest Experience
Excellent restaurant with great service! We ordered soup, and it was delicious! My husband tried the signature veal with potatoes, and it was amazing too! A wonderful place with outstanding service!
A cozy spot. The food is tasty, the wine is excellent, and the staff is friendly. The restaurant is located at the ski hotel. We were very satisfied.
This restaurant is part of Hotel Soa. The dining area felt a bit plain, and it was quite crowded, so I ordered food to my room. Everything was delicious — the meat and appetizers were perfectly prepared, and the portions were huge (enough for breakfast the next day). By the way, in northern Montenegro, their local spirits are a must-try! At the coast, you might prefer wine and seafood, but in the mountains, it’s all about meat and spirits, and they are fantastic!
Key Benefits:
- Stylish Eastern European-inspired menu
- Terrace dining with panoramic mountain views
- Signature dishes: truffle pasta and T-bone steak
- Located near Durmitor National Park
Convenience Factors:
- Situated within a ski hotel
- Friendly service and generous portions
- Room service option available
- Seasonal terrace seating
Dvorište
About the Restaurant
Known for its relaxed ambiance and fresh, local cuisine, Dvorište is home to a wide range of traditional Montenegrin delicacies — as well as a few from around the world.
Among the most popular options on the menu are rich and rustic stews, homemade sausage, and an array of grilled meats. If you book a table here, it would be criminal to let the occasion pass by without sampling regional specialties such as kačamak (a creamy potato and cheese dish) and cicvara (a savory cornmeal porridge).
Price range: $$ — $$
Guest Experience
A magical restaurant with what is likely the most eclectic interior in Montenegro and certainly the most energetic and fun host. The host is nothing like a typical Montenegrin — lively and talkative, skillfully making guests feel at home, as if personally invited to his place. He proudly claims to be the third generation of owners. The food is simple but delicious, and the service is excellent. We loved everything!
Simply amazing! Perfect service, and everything was incredibly tasty! We spent 5 days in Žabljak and happily enjoyed two wonderful evenings there. On the first evening, we ordered a meat platter, paired with a variety of amazing pickled vegetables. The meat was cooked to perfection, with four different types! On the next evening, we tried trout — I’ve never had such delicious fish in my life! Goran, the owner, helped us choose the dishes. We’ll happily return!
Key Benefits:
- Authentic Montenegrin dishes with local ingredients
- Relaxed and cozy atmosphere
- Friendly and welcoming service
- Unique interior and unforgettable host
Convenience Factors:
- Great selection of local specialties
- Generous portions and reasonable prices
- Personalized recommendations from the owner
- Perfect for both casual and special occasions
Izvor
About the Restaurant
Skiers and hikers love Izvor because of its rustic dishes and huge portion sizes.
Not only that, this cabin-style property looks particularly beautiful when it’s covered in snow — offering a cozy retreat from the sub-zero conditions of winter. Among the most popular options on the menu are veal cream soup, grilled lamb, peasant meat stew, and traditional kachamak with cheese. If you love Montenegrin food and want to sample local beers such as Mammut, this is the perfect place for dinner.
Price range: $$ — $$
Guest Experience
The restaurant is conveniently located for those descending from the Sedlo Pass. The portions are huge, the food is delicious, and it’s very budget-friendly. We loved everything — highly recommend!
Since we visited in September and the mornings were quite chilly, we wanted to warm up with some hot drinks. It’s worth stopping here just for the amazing view from the window, as we had in this spot. We rested, enjoyed tasty food, recharged with energy and impressions, and were ready to continue our journey.
We ordered lamb, cheese pie, homemade-style meat, and soup — everything was delicious. The portions were large, so the waiter advised us to order less so we wouldn’t waste food. Prices are very reasonable for the high quality of dishes. If we find ourselves in the Žabljak area again, we’ll definitely stop by once more!
Key Benefits:
- Rustic dishes with authentic Montenegrin flavors.
- Huge portion sizes — perfect for a hearty meal.
- Cozy cabin-style atmosphere, especially in winter.
- Reasonable prices for high-quality dishes.
Convenience Factors:
- Ideal location near Sedlo Pass for travelers.
- Warm, inviting atmosphere in colder months.
- Scenic views that enhance the dining experience.
- Attentive staff who ensure a pleasant visit.
Restaurant Oro
About the Restaurant
Specializing in European dishes and classic Montenegrin dishes that have been passed down several generations, Restaurant Or’O is a very large eatery that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner seven days a week.
Among the house specialties are the charcuterie plate and the Durmitor dinner plate — both of which showcase local meats and vegetables. Located in the heart of Žabljak, this charming yet rustic eatery is the perfect place to recharge after a day of hiking or skiing.
Price range: $$ — $$
Guest Experience
One of the best cafes in Žabljak. We visited three times. The atmosphere and food quality are both 5 out of 5!
A great place for lunch or dinner. We stopped by to eat and warm up while traveling. They even allowed us to bring in our small dog, which was a huge plus. The mulled wine, stuffed cabbage rolls, goulash, salad—all were delicious. Portions are huge, and everything tasted amazing!
An excellent restaurant with great food and friendly service. The waiter helped us choose dishes, and his recommendations did not disappoint. Highly recommended!
Key Benefits:
- Warm and welcoming atmosphere
- Generous portions of food
- Dog-friendly policy
- Helpful and attentive staff
Convenience Factors:
- Located in the heart of Žabljak
- Open every day
- Serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Specializes in local Montenegrin dishes
Enigma Restaurant
About the Restaurant
Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Durmitor Mountains, Enigma is a rustic eatery that offers both flavors of Montenegro and classic European dishes tourists love. The menu has a lot to offer people who wish to sample local specialties while they’re staying in the Durmitor region. However, there are also hearty soups, pasta dishes, pizzas, and traditional grilled meats for those happy to stick to what they know. Characterized by rustic, timber-frame architecture, open fires, and a stunning outdoor terrace, Enigma is the perfect place to enjoy some apres-ski with friends after a long day on the slopes.
Price range: $$ — $$
Guest Experience
The restaurant has a stylish and modern interior, creating a pleasant atmosphere for both lunch and dinner. Many guests mention that it’s a great place for a romantic dinner or a special event.
The convenient location, often with beautiful views or in a pleasant area, is also frequently highlighted in reviews. Guests note the high level of cleanliness and order in the restaurant, which is an important factor for a comfortable stay.
Key Benefits:
- Rustic, cozy ambiance with open fires
- Wide selection of local and European dishes
- Beautiful outdoor terrace with mountain views
- Ideal spot for après-ski relaxation
Convenience Factors:
- Convenient location in the Durmitor region
- Close to hiking and skiing areas
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Accessible parking and easy access
Restoran Koliba
About the Restaurant
In the Durmitor region, 4 kilometers from Zabljak, in a place called Savin Kuk, you will find Koliba. There, the smiling team of our restaurant will greet you with open arms. Our head chef, Milica, will take you on an unforgettable journey into authentic flavors and aromas, giving you the strength to overcome all the challenges Durmitor has to offer. As the locals say, «Strength comes through the mouth.» The friendly staff will host and serve you, making you feel right at home. They will also assist if you’re ready to burn off calories with the various unforgettable activities offered by the Durmitor surroundings. For more than a decade, Restaurant Koliba has been proudly hosting mountaineers, climbers, flower lovers, skiers, bikers, and all well-meaning people visiting the most popular peak of Durmitor. The restaurant is open during the summer season from June to September and during the winter season from December to March. Welcome!
Price range: ## - ##
Guest Experience
We visited the restaurant with friends after skiing down from Savin Kuk. We were wet and cold, but the staff immediately took our order and lit the fireplace, which was a real delight for us. It was fascinating to look at the decorations — many items from old everyday life, almost like a museum. We warmed up by the fire, ate — the food was delicious, with many dishes of traditional cuisine. The bill for four came to 37 euros — we didn’t order alcohol because we had a long journey ahead. Everything was great!
We found the restaurant online before we drove to Zabljak. The atmosphere is quite unusual — a rustic setting, nature, with domestic animals around. We really enjoyed this, it felt cozy and homely. They made us meat in kajmak, simply divine. We were very happy with the restaurant.
We also had the most delicious potato and bean stew with dried mutton — we’ve never tasted anything like it! And the smoked pork knuckle with sauerkraut was magnificent. All the meat was incredibly tasty, cooked in a homely, soulful way.
Key Benefits:
- Authentic local cuisine with a focus on traditional dishes
- Cozy, rustic atmosphere with a fireplace
- Warm and welcoming staff
- Unique setting surrounded by nature and farm animals
Convenience Factors:
- Located just 4 kilometers from Zabljak
- Open year-round (summer and winter seasons)
- Family-friendly and perfect for groups
- Offers great opportunities for outdoor activities in the surrounding area
Krcma Nostalgija
About the Restaurant
Krčma Nostalgija is a cozy restaurant located in the town of Žabljak, Montenegro. The restaurant is renowned for its traditional Montenegrin cuisine, offering dishes such as juicy grilled meats, fresh salads, and hearty stews, reflecting the rich culinary heritage of the region.
Price range: ## - ##
Guest Experience
The portions are huge, with plenty of meat. We also loved the lamb soup with brined cheese — it was absolutely delicious! Highly recommended!
Key Benefits:
- Traditional Montenegrin cuisine
- Generous portions
- Fresh local ingredients
- Cozy atmosphere
Convenience Factors:
- Convenient location in Žabljak
- Indoor and outdoor seating
- Friendly service
- Perfect for large groups
Nacionalni Restoran Crno Jezero
About the Restaurant
Nacionalni Restoran Crno Jezero is located in the heart of Durmitor National Park, 1400 meters above sea level, in the town of Žabljak, Montenegro. The restaurant opened in the summer of 2018 and has since become a popular spot for both tourists and locals.
Price range: ## - ##
Guest Experience
I recommend the golden trout with vegetables and the nettle soup. Simply an incredible taste!
Friendly service, takeaway coffee.
This restaurant turned out to be better than expected. It looks a bit like a tourist trap because of its location and the way you have to pay for entrance to reach the lake.
Key Benefits:
- Authentic traditional Montenegrin cuisine
- Located in a beautiful natural setting
- Large capacity for groups and events
- Friendly and professional service
Convenience Factors:
- Easy access by car
- Free Wi-Fi
- Family-friendly with a children’s playground
- Accepts card payments
Lupo d’Argento
About the Restaurant
Lupo d’Argento is located in Žabljak, Montenegro, and is famous for its Italian cuisine, offering a variety of dishes including pasta, pizza, and meat-based meals.
The restaurant offers a cozy and modern atmosphere, perfect for both locals and tourists who are looking for a delicious meal in the heart of the Durmitor National Park.
Price range: ## - ##
Guest Experience
We’ve been to this restaurant several times and will definitely return. The service was excellent, and the waiters were friendly. The only downside was waiting a bit for the payment terminal, but it was crowded, so not a big issue. My husband really liked the veal in milk and ordered it again. I had the steak, which was good. We also came here for breakfast and really enjoyed the chicken tortilla, while the omelet with vegetables was quite good. It’s one of our favorite places in Žabljak. We spent a long time deciding where to go and we’re glad we chose here. The atmosphere is youthful and European, the service was quick, and the dishes are huge and incredibly delicious!
Key Benefits:
- Friendly and fast service
- Cozy, European atmosphere
- Large portion sizes
- Variety of delicious Italian dishes
Convenience Factors:
- Located in Žabljak, Montenegro
- Offers both lunch and breakfast menus
- Popular with locals and tourists
- Great for casual dining or family meals
Durmitor
About the Restaurant
Durmitor Restaurant, located in the town of Žabljak, Montenegro, offers traditional Montenegrin cuisine in a cozy atmosphere. Visitors highlight the large portions, delicious meat dishes, cheese, and excellent coffee. The restaurant is also known for its friendly service and a homely interior that reflects the northern style of Montenegro.
Price range: ## - ##
Guest Experience
We had a wonderful time dining at this restaurant. We ordered a glass of wine, 2 beers, lamb, and a cabbage salad. The home-style cuisine is simple but absolutely delicious! The staff is excellent. The trout and lamb are magnificent!
We really enjoyed our time here. There’s a terrace and two dining rooms, all cozy and comfortable with fast service. Everything we tried was tasty: chicken and veal soup, meat assortment, pancakes, Shopska and Serbian salads, pljeskavica, grilled chicken, and grilled pork.
Key Benefits:
- Large portions
- Delicious meat dishes
- Excellent coffee
- Friendly service
Convenience Factors:
- Cozy and welcoming atmosphere
- Quick service
- Two dining areas and a terrace
- Authentic Montenegrin experience
Zlatni Papagaj
About the Restaurant
Zlatni Papagaj is located in the town of Žabljak, Montenegro, and is known for its traditional Montenegrin cuisine. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, including meats, cheeses, and fresh bread, reflecting the rich culinary heritage of the region.
Price range: ## - ##
Guest Experience
The meat was fantastic, and the staff was very kind and attentive. We had their signature dishes, veal and lamb, and they were absolutely delicious! It’s a very cozy and relatively inexpensive café with friendly personnel and an informal atmosphere. We went there for dinner — the little lights made the atmosphere quite charming. There’s also an option to sit outside, and if it’s cold, you can ask for a blanket. There are vegetarian options too. I highly recommend trying their pizza — it’s amazing!
Key Benefits:
- Fantastic meat dishes
- Friendly and attentive staff
- Cozy and informal atmosphere
- Great pizza
Convenience Factors:
- Outdoor seating available
- Blankets for chilly evenings
- Vegetarian options
- Reasonable prices
