Where to Eat in Kotor: 10 Restaurants That Aren’t Tourist Traps
While Montenegro may not be renowned for its cuisine, you can still find a great meal in Kotor if you know where to eat. Read on for tips, tricks, and our list of the best restaurants in Kotor, Montenegro, based on our experience living there for five weeks.
If you are a foodie visiting Kotor, you may be a bit skeptical of the dining scene. Let’s not beat around the bush here – grilled meats and French fries can get old, fast. And truthfully, in a city that predominantly receives its tourists via cruise ships, coming for a day and never to be seen again, there are a fair amount of overpriced and low-quality tourist traps here. But it’s not all bad news! There are several great Kotor restaurants hidden away in its cobblestone alleys. We lived here for five weeks and took care of the trial and error for you. I’ll give you a few basic pointers to get you headed in the right direction, and then provide our recommendations for the best places to eat in Kotor, Montenegro.
Looking for the best bars and nightlife? Check out our post Kotor Nightlife: The Best Bars in Old Town! And don’t miss our full travel guide on Kotor, What To Do In Kotor: Your 2-Day Guide.
Update note: This guide was reviewed in May 2026 to confirm current openings, pricing, and overall relevance.
No Time to Read Now? Pin this Post for Later!
Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you visit a link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and services we trust, and all opinions are our own.
The 10 Best Restaurants in Kotor, Montenegro - Your Guide to Where to Eat:
- How to Pick a Great Place to Eat in Kotor, Montenegro
- The Best Restaurants in Kotor, Montenegro
- FAQs for the Best Restaurants in Kotor, Montenegro
How to Pick a Great Place to Eat in Kotor, Montenegro
There are a few basic rules to picking where to eat in Kotor, Montenegro to ensure you enjoy your meal:
- DON’T eat at a restaurant where the menu is entirely in English or contains photos of all of the food.
- DON’T choose a place because a waiter outside called you over and tried to persuade you to eat there.
- DON’T take Google Maps reviews as undisputed facts. We know, it’s an easy place to start and we gravitate toward those 4 star and up locations as well. But the truth is, in tourist destinations these reviews are overwhelmingly contributed by, well, tourists, who may have different expectations for service than are standard in that country. If you see a place that looks good but the reviews aren’t top notch, check to see whether those reviews are food-related or simply someone being a little impatient.
- DO walk at least two to three blocks away from big tourist attractions to avoid higher costs and lower quality. In Kotor, this usually just means avoiding the big, main squares.
- DO gravitate to restaurants with a small, specific menu.
- DO make dinner reservations at popular spots like La Catedral Pasta Bar, Konoba Scala Santa, and Rooftop Terrace Hippocampus at least two days in advance.
Follow these simple guidelines, and you’ll be set up for success!
The Best Restaurants in Kotor, Montenegro
We highly recommend these places to eat in Kotor for your next visit. But before we start, a couple quick tips on dining etiquette in Montenegro.
First, a heads up that as your meal progresses, you’ll be brought a fresh check for each order you place. For example, they’ll bring you a check when you order your drinks, and then again when you order your meal. This doesn’t mean they’re trying to rush you out! It’s just how they do things here to make sure everything is accounted for. Also, it’s not as common here for a server to stop by and check in on you. If you want to order something, you’ll need to flag them down. Say “izvini!” (ihz-vee-nee) to grab their attention.
Breakfast
Montenegrins are big on breakfast. You’ll see it served at a lot of Kotor restaurants, typically until 11:00 or noon, so you shouldn’t have any trouble fueling up in the morning. However, don’t get it confused – breakfast does not equal brunch. You won’t be finding any avocado toast or chicken and waffles here. When we asked for a mimosa? They looked at us like we had a third arm growing out of our head. Rather, a typical Montenegrin breakfast is a basic omelet or a platter of eggs, sausage, sir (local cheese), and ajvar (a bell pepper-based sauce). Menus across the city are not particularly diverse, so keep it simple and save your euros – and calories – for later in the day.
Montenegrin breakfast is a straightforward affair, so finding a great breakfast spot is about finding a restaurant with excellent execution. Marenda Steak House does classics right. The fried eggs have the perfect crispy bottom, the sausages are flavorful but not too greasy, and the portions are generous. I’m more of an omelet girl myself, and these were nice and fluffy. To top it off, service is quick and friendly and quality Wifi is readily available.
Lunch & Dinner
Top of the list for where to eat in Kotor, Montenegro has to be BBQ Tanjga. Why? It’s the perfect place to try out some Montenegrin classics at a high quality and reasonable price. We recommend ordering one of their several mixed meat platters. This way, you can try out the Montenegrin staple, cevapi (pictured in sandwich form), along with a variety of other grilled meats. They also serve steaks and a great pljeskavica (a mixed meat burger often stuffed with tasty treats like bacon and onion). Finish your plate off with fries, grilled vegetables, and sauces and take it out back to enjoy in their spacious garden terrace.
Update Note: As of May 2026, as expected, BBQ Tanja is once again open for business! So head on over and don’t miss out on their tasty grilled meats.
One of the best Kotor, Montenegro restaurants we enjoyed during our visit was La Catedral Pasta Bar. On top of serving great food in a charming setting, they’ve got the friendliest wait staff in the city. We visited probably three or four times during our stay and they recognized us with big smiles and treated us like old friends each time. La Catedral offers a large menu of great pasta dishes, but be aware that here – and in all of Montenegro – they go heavy on the cream-based sauces. We highly recommend the salmon bruschetta to start off your meal!
Update Note: As of May 2026, as expected, La Catedral Pasta Bar is once again open for business. Enjoy their delicious pasta and lovely service!
Restobar Taraca is one of the few Kotor restaurants serving delicious vegan and vegetarian dishes. Just on the north side of Old Town on the banks of the Scurda River, it’s a refreshing change of pace after a few days of grilled meats and pasta. In addition to several Asian-inspired dishes, Restobar Taraca offers salads, smoothies, and fresh-squeezed juices. It’s a great place to stop before or after you hike the nearby Ladder of Kotor – learn more in our 2-day Kotor itinerary and travel guide.
Ladovina Kitchen & Wine Bar is a little off the beaten track, and not the cheapest option, but man did our dinner blow us away. It’s a great spot for a romantic meal away from the hustle and bustle of Old Town. If they’re serving it that day, do not pass up the opportunity to try their slow-roasted pork shank. They earned their spot as one of the best Kotor restaurants on this dish alone.
Update Note: As of May 2026, Google Maps still says this Kotor restaurant is temporarily closed. At this point in the year, we would expect that means this is likely a permanent closure. If you’re looking for something similar to Ladovina during your visit, we recommend trying Restoran Atrium instead (discussed below).
Located near the south entrance to the St. John Fortress/Kotor Fortress hike (learn more in our post What To Do In Kotor: Your 2-Day Guide), Konoba Scala Santa is a lovely seafood restaurant. Here you can choose a more casual vibe by dining outside in the plaza, or a more romantic one by taking your meal inside. This Kotor restaurant is decorated with a fisherman’s aesthetic, and makes you feel like you’re dining in the cabin of an old ship. It’s a fun experience, and the seafood is great. We recommend the buttery, melt-in-your-mouth sea bass filet.
Heads up – Konoba Scala Santa is one of the most popular restaurants in Kotor. Reserve your table at Konoba Scala Santa now 🍝.
Tucked away in a small alley further east than most restaurants, Restoran Atrium is a hidden gem worth discovering. It doesn’t look like much from the outside, but immediately upon entering you’ll feel like you’ve entered a luxurious secret garden. The majority of the roof is a giant greenhouse-esque skylight, and velvet couches, candlelight, and of course, lots of plants, tie it all together to create the perfect ambiance. Let’s just say, this Kotor restaurant would make an absolute killing as a brunch spot in LA. The menu is varied, but expect an upscale touch to each dish.
Speaking of upscale vibes, Rooftop Terrace Hippocampus is where to eat in Kotor if you’re looking for – you guessed it – the best rooftop in town. Located on top of Hotel Hippocampus, this is a small and intimate – read, private and romantic – rooftop bar and restaurant. There are only around 10 tables here, so reservations are recommended. Expect artisan cocktails and a seasonally rotating menu.
Too late for a reservation at Rooftop Terrace Hippocampus but still want a rooftop? Try the bar on top of the city walls, Citadela Restaurant. The food and drinks aren’t as good, and the area is busy with tourists, but the views and photo ops are great. Find more of our favorite Kotor bars here.
Dessert
Every day needs a little sweet treat to finish it off, right? Whether you’re an afternoon gelato type or prefer an end of night cake or pastry, these two spots are where to eat in Kotor when your sweet tooth strikes.
Cattarissimo is one of the best places to eat in Kotor, Montenegro for gelato. You can find Cattarissimo at their storefront or through the handful of stands scattered throughout town. Their gelato is super creamy and they offer a great selection of flavors. It’s the perfect treat to enjoy on the go while exploring the cobblestone streets of Old Town Kotor on a hot, sunny day.
Update Note: As of May 2026, Google Maps still says this Kotor restaurant is temporarily closed. While it may be the case that they’ve closed down their storefront (though we highly doubt it), we saw Cattarissimo vendors scattered throughout most of the main plazas, so keep an eye out and you still may be able to get your ice cream fix!
This hotel and restaurant is a where to eat in Kotor, Montenegro for a late night coffee and dessert. They serve one of the best krempita in town, Kotor’s popular cream puff pastry cake. Light, fluffy, and deliciously creamy, it’s a delectable treat that won’t leave you feeling bloated and guilty. If krempita isn’t your thing, Astoria also offers a wide selection of other cakes and pastries, including some dessert waffles that looked utterly scrumptious.
FAQs for the Best Restaurants in Kotor, Montenegro
Which Kotor Restaurants Require Advance Reservations?
Thankfully, you can visit most Kotor restaurants without a reservation. However, some of the best places to eat in Kotor, Montenegro do get booked up, especially during peak season. We recommend making reservations at the following in-demand restaurants upon arriving in town:
- La Catedral Pasta Bar
- Konoba Scala Santa (reserve your table here)
- Rooftop Terrace Hippocampus
Most Kotor restaurants do not accept online reservations, so you’ll need to visit them in person to book a table for later on in your visit.
What Should I Order at a Montenegrin Restaurant in Kotor?
Montenegro is a big “meat and potatoes” type of place, so expect some heavier meals. Some of the most classic Montenegrin dishes you should order when dining at a Kotor restaurant are:
- Cevapi – a grilled sausage made from minced meat, served on their own or in a sandwich
- Pljeskavica – a mixed meat burger often stuffed with tasty treats like bacon and onion
- Sir – the local cheese
- Ajvar – a bell pepper-based sauce they serve with many dishes
Expect pretty much everything to be served with a side of french fries.
Where Are the Best Places to Eat in Kotor Located?
Most of the best restaurants in Kotor, Montenegro, are within the Old Town, which is also where we’d recommend you stay during your visit. We’ve included some of our top hotel recommendations below – learn more about these and other recommended hotels in our Kotor itinerary and travel guide.
- Boutique Hotel Hippocampus ($$$) – ⭐⭐⭐⭐, 8.3 average rating
- KAŽIN supreme ($$$) – ⭐⭐⭐⭐, 9.4 average rating
- Boutique Hotel Astoria ($$$) – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐, 9.0 average rating
Note that you can find some more affordable accommodations if you stay outside of Old Town. Check out our Kotor itinerary and travel guide to learn about other lodging options.
When Do People Typically Eat in Kotor?
Breakfast is served at many Kotor restaurants until around 11:00 or noon. Lunch then takes over until around 2:00, while dinner is around 8:00 or later. There’s no big distinction between what qualifies as a lunch meal versus a dinner meal here in Montenegro, so feel free to let your stomach take the lead.
Should I Tip at Bars and Restaurants in Kotor, Montenegro?
Tipping is not standard in Montenegro, though rounding up here and there is always appreciated. If your waiter is specifically asking you for a tip, you’re in a tourist trap.
Do Kotor Restaurants Accept Credit Cards?
Most of the best places to eat in Kotor, Montenegro will accept credit cards. However, Montenegro is still otherwise a largely cash-driven economy. We recommend keeping at least 100 euro (~$120) on hand at all times. Don’t forget our pro tip on withdrawing from ATMs in foreign countries!
Pro tip: When offered an exchange rate by an ATM, you can – and should – always decline the rate displayed. This rate often includes a heavy markup on top of the market exchange rate (up to 10% in Montenegro!). Declining the rate will not stop your transaction, but rather allow your personal bank to set the rate instead.
Do I Need to Speak Montenegrin to Order at Restaurants in Kotor?
Definitely not. We had no issues interacting with people in the service industry in English during our 3 months in Montenegro, though knowing a few key words will definitely win you some brownie points with the locals. Practice these ones before your trip:
- Hello – Zdravo – ZDRAH-voh
- Goodbye – Ciao – chow
- Please – Molim – MOH-leem
- Thank you – Hvala – HVAH-lah
- Can I pay? – Mogu li platiti? – MOH-goo lee plah-TEE-tee
- The bill/check – Račun – RAH-choon
- Delicious – Ukusno – oo-KOOS-noh
Where Can I Learn More About Kotor and Why I Should Visit It?
Right here! We lived in Kotor for five weeks and have a full travel guide and itinerary for Kotor here, along with recommendations for our favorite bars in Kotor and a guide to popular day-trip destination Tivat. We also have a slew of other posts on other top Montenegro destinations like Budva, Herceg Novi, and Durmitor in our Montenegro travel guides – check them out and plan an epic road trip across the country!
Final Thoughts on Where to Eat in Kotor, Montenegro
Now that you know where to eat in Kotor, Montenegro, all that’s left to do is get out there and savor every bite. We hope you enjoy these best restaurants in Kotor as much as we did! Comment below what your favorites were.
Looking for more recommendations on what to see and do in Kotor? Check out our posts What To Do In Kotor: Your 2-Day Guide and Kotor Nightlife: The Best Bars in Old Town. We’ve also got posts on a range of other cities in Montenegro, including some of the top destinations below:
- 3 Days in Budva: What to See During Your Trip to Montenegro
- Herceg Novi, Montenegro: Your 2-Day Itinerary
- An Epic 3 Days in Durmitor National Park, Montenegro
Check out our Montenegro travel guides for these posts and more!
You May Also Like
Related Posts
