Flavia Voican · Updated April 14, 2026 · Belgrade, SerbiaWhere locals actually eat — by neighborhood, budget, and what to order.
Flavia Voican · Updated April 14, 2026 · Belgrade, SerbiaSome links are affiliate links. Learn more.
Belgrade is a city where Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Balkan influences fuse into hearty, smoky, and often fermented flavors. You must try ćevapi (grilled minced meat skewers), sarma (meat-stuffed cabbage rolls), and kajmak (creamy dairy spread). Prices are honest—€10-15 covers a full meal at a good restaurant.
Savamala is Belgrade’s new dining epicenter, where old industrial warehouses now house trendy pizzerias, seafood spots, and craft beer bars. Look for trattorias with wood-fired pizzas and fresh sarma served in €15-20 mains. Best after dark, when the riverfront glows and the crowds start to arrive.
Skadarlija is Belgrade’s village-in-the-city, known for its folk music, wood-fired stoves, and hearty Serbian classics. The narrow lanes are lined with taverns serving grilled meats and plum brandy. It’s charming but touristy, so arrive early to beat the crowds.
Dorćol is where Belgrade’s young creatives eat, with a mix of vegan bistros, kebab houses, and casual wine bars. The area has a buzzing night scene and a good kebab spot around every corner, with grilled meat in pita for €6-8. It’s perfect for late-night eats after a concert.
Zemun, a former village now part of Belgrade, is quieter and offers a mix of Serbian and international cuisine. Try the trout restaurants along the Danube or the fish soup at local taverns. It’s ideal for a relaxed lunch or dinner with views over the river.
Ćevapi are grilled minced meat skewers, often served with flatbread, onions, and ajvar. The best versions are in Dorćol and Skadarlija, where you can get a plate of four for €7-10.
Sarma is cabbage or grape leaves stuffed with a mix of minced beef and rice. It’s a Balkan staple and a must for lunch. Look for it in Skadarlija or Savamala for €12-15 per serving.
Kajmak is a creamy, buttery dairy spread made from fermented milk. It’s often served with bread, eggs, or grilled cheese. Try it at a local bakery in Dorćol or Zemun for under €2 per serving.
Belgrade’s version of goulash is heavier and more meaty than the Hungarian style. It’s usually made with beef, paprika, and served with bread. Look for it in Skadarli
lija or Zemun for €10-14.
Somun is a type of leavened bread, often used as a side to grilled meats or cheeses. You can find it at most taverns and bakeries, with a fresh loaf for €1-2.
Krompiruša is a creamy mashed potato soup, often served with bacon or cheese. It’s a comfort food staple and easy to find in Skadarlija for €6-8.
Pita is a baked or grilled flatbread filled with cheese, meat, or spinach. The best are in Zemun and Dorćol, with meat-filled versions for €5-7.
Burek is a flaky, layered pastry filled with meat, cheese, or eggs. It’s best eaten hot from the oven. Look for it at morning markets or local bakeries for €2-3 each.
Ajvar is a roasted red pepper and eggplant spread, often served with grilled meats. It’s a Serbian staple and a must-order side. You can get it free with most grilled dishes or buy it in jars at the market.
Pljeskavica is a Serbian burger made from grilled minced meat, often with onions and ajvar. It’s a hearty street food staple. Try it in Savamala or Dorćol for €7-10.
| Meal type | Est. cost | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| Street food / market | €2-8 | *Burek*, *ćevapi*, *krompiruša*, *kajmak* |
| Casual sit-down | €10-18 | Grilled meats, *sarma*, *pita* |
| Mid-range restaurant | €20-35 | Full meal with wine or beer |
| Fine |
| Meal Type | Cost per Person | Where to Find It |
|---|---|---|
| Street food | €2-3 | Knez Mihailova Street, Skadarlija |
| Casual | €5-8 | Balkan Bistro, Studentski Grad |
| Mid-range | €10-15 | Café de Paris, Dorćol |
| Fine dining | €25-40 | Balkan Bistro, Zemun |
| Daily budget | €
Map: Belgrade Restaurant DistrictsNavigate Belgrade's restaurant districts with this interactive map. Click to explore the city. Complete Belgrade Travel GuideKafana Zlatna Lipa — Traditional SerbianEstablished in 1999, this Belgrade institution in Savamala serves authentic Serbian fare with a focus on grilled meats. Order pljeskavica (grilled minced beef patty, 1,200 RSD) with ajvar (roasted red pepper spread, 350 RSD), gibanica (cheese pastry, 450 RSD), and krompiruša (potato dumplings, 600 RSD) for two. Located on Knez Mihailova Street, the space features wooden tables, red walls, and old photographs of Belgrade. Best visited on a weekday evening when locals fill the tables, avoiding weekend crowds. Ideal for travelers seeking a genuine taste of Serbia, not a tourist trap. The price for two (excluding drinks) is 2,600 RSD. Bistro 33 — Modern EuropeanNestled in the trendy Dorćol neighborhood, Bistro 33 offers contemporary takes on European classics. Try the cevapi (grilled minced meat sausages, 1,100 RSD), štrukle (cheese-filled dumplings, 750 RSD), and kremšnita (cream cake, 400 RSD) for two. The minimalist decor features exposed brick, soft lighting, and a small bar. Visit on a Tuesday or Wednesday for a quieter meal; weekends are packed. Best for young professionals and foodies looking for a refined yet casual experience. The price for two (excluding drinks) is 2,250 RSD. Kafana Knez Mihailova — Street FoodThis market stall in the heart of Knez Mihailova Street specializes in traditional street food. Order pljeskavica (grilled minced beef patty, 600 RSD), ćevabdžinica (grilled minced meat skewers, 700 RSD), and kajmak (clotted cream, 250 RSD) for two. The stall is open daily from 10 AM to 10 PM, with a simple setup of wooden tables and a small counter. Best visited during lunch hours (12 PM–2 PM) when the line is shortest. Perfect for budget travelers and locals grabbing a quick bite. The price for two (excluding drinks) is 1,550 RSD. Vinarija Sveti Sava — Mid-Range with WineLocated in the residential neighborhood of Vračar, Vinarija Sveti Sava boasts an extensive wine list featuring local Serbian varieties. Try the gibanica (cheese pastry, 450 RSD), krompiruša (potato dumplings, 600 RSD), and štrukle (cheese-filled dumplings, 750 RSD) for two. The interior combines rustic wooden tables with modern lighting, creating a cozy yet sophisticated vibe. Visit on a Thursday evening for live music and a relaxed atmosphere. Ideal for wine enthusiasts and couples seeking a quiet dinner. The price for two (excluding drinks) is 1,800 RSD. Mama Mia — Chef-Driven Fine DiningMama Mia, a Michelin-recommended restaurant in the Zemun district, offers a tasting menu featuring local ingredients. Order the truffle risotto (1,800 RSD), grilled trout with wild herbs (2,200 RSD), and čevabdžinica (grilled minced meat skewers, 1,100 RSD) for two. The space is minimalist with white walls, soft lighting, and a focus on the food. Best visited on a Tuesday or Wednesday for a quieter meal; weekends are fully booked. Suitable for special occasions and food connoisseurs. The price for two (excluding drinks) is 5,100 RSD. Kafana Pekin — Neighbourhood FavouriteHidden in the residential area of Sopot, Kafana Pekin is a locals-only spot known for its hearty Serbian dishes. Order pljeskavica (grilled minced beef patty, 1,200 RSD), gibanica (cheese pastry, 450 RSD), and krompiruša (potato dumplings, 600 RSD) for two. The decor is simple with wooden tables and a small bar, reflecting its long-standing presence in the community. Visit on a weekday evening for the most authentic experience. Best for locals and travelers who want to avoid touristy spots. The price for two (excluding drinks) is 2,250 RSD. |
