What to Eat in Split

Split is where ancient history meets modern Mediterranean charm — and it’s also where Croatian cuisine truly comes alive. With its waterfront setting, Roman heritage and proximity to both the sea and mountains, this Dalmatian city delivers a vibrant mix of flavors, traditions and textures. Whether you're dining al fresco in the shadow of Diocletian’s Palace or exploring local flavors through a guided excursion, the best foods in Split offer a mouthwatering journey through Croatia’s coastal soul.

If you’re wondering what to eat in Split, these 12 essential dishes will give you a taste of the region’s freshest ingredients and laid-back dining culture that’s all about slowing down and savoring every bite.

1. Pasticada

This rich and flavorful beef stew is a Dalmatian classic that’s often served at weddings and holidays — and for good reason. Pasticada is made by marinating beef in red wine, vinegar, garlic and spices overnight, then slow-cooking it with prunes, carrots and onions until melt-in-your-mouth tender. The dish is traditionally served with homemade gnocchi that soaks up every drop of the sweet and savory sauce. It's one of the most iconic dishes in Split and a must-try for fans of comfort food with depth and history.

2. Black Risotto (Crni Rižot)

A seafood staple across the Adriatic coast, crni rižot gets its signature black color from squid or cuttlefish ink. The rice is slow-cooked with garlic, onions, olive oil, white wine and pieces of squid, giving it a briny, earthy flavor that tastes like the sea. The texture is creamy, similar to Italian risotto, but with a uniquely Croatian twist. Locals typically squeeze fresh lemon over the top just before serving to brighten the deep, savory notes.

3. Soparnik

This savory pie hails from the Dalmatian hinterlands and has earned a Protected Geographical Indication from the EU. Soparnik is made with thin dough filled with Swiss chard, garlic, parsley and olive oil, then baked in a wood-fired oven until golden. It’s cut into rustic squares and often served during holidays or family gatherings. Despite its humble ingredients, it’s packed with flavor and showcases Croatia’s love for seasonal vegetables and artisanal baking.

4. Grilled Adriatic Fish

With the Adriatic Sea right on Split’s doorstep, it’s no surprise that fresh fish is a menu staple. Whole sea bream, sea bass or scorpionfish are often simply grilled with olive oil, garlic, lemon and parsley to let the natural flavor shine. Served with a side of Swiss chard and potatoes, this dish is light, healthy and completely satisfying. The best way to enjoy it? At a seaside restaurant as the sun sets over the Riva promenade.

5. Fuži with Truffle Sauce

While truffles are more common in Istria, you’ll find this luxurious pasta dish in many of Split’s finer restaurants. Fuži is a hand-rolled tube-shaped pasta that’s tossed in a velvety sauce made from cream, cheese and finely shaved truffles. The aroma is intoxicating and the flavor is rich, earthy and indulgent. It’s a fantastic example of how Croatian cuisine seamlessly blends rustic tradition with elegant refinement.

6. Fritule

These bite-sized Dalmatian doughnuts are a festive treat often enjoyed during holidays — but you’ll find them in bakeries and cafés year-round. Fritule are made from a yeasty batter flavored with citrus zest, raisins and sometimes a splash of rakija (fruit brandy), then deep-fried until golden. They’re dusted with powdered sugar and served warm — crisp on the outside and soft inside. They’re the perfect sweet ending to a traditional Croatian meal.

7. Octopus Salad

Light, refreshing and packed with flavor, octopus salad is a favorite starter or light lunch along the coast. Tender octopus is boiled, then chopped and mixed with diced onions, tomatoes, parsley and olive oil, sometimes with capers or potatoes. The salad is chilled and served cold, making it ideal for hot summer days. Its clean, briny taste is a testament to the quality of Split’s fresh seafood.

8. Gregada

Gregada is a traditional fish stew with roots on the nearby island of Hvar, but it’s also common in Split’s home kitchens. Made with white fish, potatoes, garlic, onions and olive oil, the ingredients are layered and slowly simmered together in a single pot. The result is a fragrant, brothy dish that’s both rustic and refined. It’s typically served with bread to soak up the flavorful juices.

9. Rafioli

Not to be confused with Italian ravioli, Croatian rafioli are a sweet pastry filled with a mixture of ground almonds, walnuts, citrus zest and sometimes chocolate. The dough is rolled thin, folded over the filling and baked until just golden. They’re often dusted with powdered sugar and served with coffee or dessert wine. A local favorite, rafioli are especially common during festivals and holidays.

10. Lamb on the Spit (Janjetina)

Inland Split and its surrounding villages are known for their expertly roasted lamb. Janjetina is typically cooked whole on a spit over an open fire, seasoned simply with salt and fresh herbs. The result is crispy skin and tender, juicy meat that falls off the bone. Often served with potatoes baked in the coals, it’s a celebration dish best enjoyed with friends and a glass of local red wine.

11. Peka

One of Croatia’s most famous traditional cooking methods, peka refers to food — often octopus, lamb or veal — cooked under a heavy iron dome covered in hot coals. It’s slow-cooked with vegetables, olive oil, garlic and herbs until everything is tender and infused with a smoky aroma. Though you won’t find it at every restaurant due to the time-intensive preparation, some taverns offer it by reservation. It’s a must-try for anyone looking for a taste of authentic Croatian home cooking.

12. Pag Cheese (Paški Sir)

Although it comes from the island of Pag, this sheep’s milk cheese is beloved throughout Croatia and frequently found on appetizer platters in Split. Paški sir is hard, salty and slightly nutty, thanks to the sheep’s unique diet of wild herbs and sea salt–kissed grass. It pairs beautifully with olives, cured meats and a glass of Dalmatian wine. For cheese lovers, it’s one of the best local products to sample during your stay.

Food Excursions in Split Worth Savoring

To dive deeper into Croatia’s culinary heritage, consider joining one of these food-focused excursions that bring Split’s flavors to life:

• Split Culinary Experience
  • Head to the countryside for a truly immersive Croatian lunch on a local estate. Watch a traditional pesto-making demonstration and enjoy handmade pasta paired with award-winning olive oil and regional wine. While it’s not a formal cooking class, guests are welcome to get hands-on during this interactive meal. It’s a flavorful way to experience the culture, hospitality and bounty of the Dalmatian coast.
• Diocletian Palace and Olive Oil Experience
  • Begin your adventure with a guided walk through Split’s historical heart, from Diocletian’s Palace to towering cathedrals and charming cobbled streets. Then enjoy a tasting at a modern olive oil bar, where you’ll learn about Dalmatia’s most prized ingredient. Sample a range of oils, pair them with bread and cheese and discover the nuances that make each bottle unique. It’s a blend of ancient history and contemporary flavor in one unforgettable afternoon.

What Food is Split Famous For?

The best foods in Split celebrate both land and sea — fresh fish grilled to perfection, slow-cooked stews passed down through generations and pastries flavored with citrus and nuts. From simple, satisfying dishes like octopus salad to indulgent bites of truffle pasta or fritule, Split’s culinary scene is all about balance, tradition and seasonal ingredients. Whether you're wandering the markets, dining in a local konoba or joining a farm-to-table excursion, every bite brings you closer to the heart of the Dalmatian coast.

Ready to taste your way through Croatia’s coast? Check out Split shore excursions that let you explore historic landmarks, charming coastal towns and the vibrant culture of Dalmatia.

Keep Exploring Split

Want to learn more about this gem? Check out these guides to plan your next trip:

• Split, Croatia Shore Excursions - Uncover the best of Split with shore excursions that take you on unforgettable adventures.
• What is Split, Croatia Known For? - Learn more about the city's history, culture, food and sea views.
• When is the Best Time to Visit Split? - Plan the best time for your perfect getaway.
• What to Eat in Split - Savor the flavors as you taste your way through your latest adventure.
• What to Buy in Split - Discover the best souvenirs to enjoy after returning home.