Where locals actually eat — by neighborhood, budget, and what to order.
Flavia Voican · Updated April 14, 2026 · Novi Sad, SerbiaSome links are affiliate links. Learn more.
Novi Sad is one of Serbia’s most underrated food cities, blending Central European, Balkan, and Ottoman influences into its cuisine. You must try ćevapi (minced meat skewers), paprikaš (a spiced beef stew), and krompiruša (a creamy potato stew) to understand the local flavor. Prices are honest, with a typical three-course meal costing €25–35 at a mid-range restaurant.
Petrovaradin offers a mix of traditional and modern eateries with great views of the Danube. The fortress area is dotted with small family-run konobas where you can try grilled ribs for €12–15. Look for places around the Petrovaradin Fortress that open in the evenings with live music. The best time to eat here is after sunset when the views light up.
Liman is the go-to area for seafood and river fish. Local spots serve fresh carp and catfish grilled over open flames for €10–14. The restaurants here tend to be casual and family-friendly, with a relaxed, lakeside vibe. Prices are slightly higher here due to the location and quality of ingredients.
Futog is a working-class neighborhood with some of the city’s best-value dining. You’ll find smoky grilled meats and hearty stews at no-frills eateries where €20 gets you a full meal. The area is popular with locals at lunchtime, so aim for midday if you want to experience it as the Serbians do.
Stari Grad has a mix of upscale and traditional restaurants, with a focus on grilled meats and Serbian comfort food. Expect prices to be slightly higher here, but the portions are generous. A good kebab spot in Stari Grad can be found near the old city center, with prices around €10–12 for a full kebab and side.
These are tiny minced meat sausages, usually served with ajvar and bread. The best versions are found in the trattorias of Stari Grad. Expect to pay €6–8 for a plate of four with sides.
A rich, spiced beef stew with tomatoes and peppers. The most authentic versions come from the konobas of Futog. It costs around €9–11 for a generous portion.
A creamy potato and sausage stew, popular in the colder months. Try it at the market stalls around the old city. Budget €4–5 for a small bowl.
A sweet onion cake, often served as a dessert or snack. You’ll find it at bakeries in Petrovaradin. It costs about €2–3 per slice.
A flaky, salty cheese-filled pastry, usually eaten for breakfast. The best versions are from local bakeries in Liman. A slice costs €1.50–2.50.
These are handmade meatballs, often grilled and served with garlic and bread. Look for them in the open-air markets in Futog. They cost €5–7 for a full serving.
A slow-cooked bean and meat dish, similar to Greek fasolada. It’s a comfort food favorite in Petrovaradin, with a main dish costing €8–10.
A strong plum or apple brandy, often homemade. You’ll find it offered for free in many family-run places in Stari Grad. No need to buy it, just sample it for free.
| Meal type | Est. cost | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| Street food / market | €3–8 | Sausages, pastries, kebabs |
| Casual sit-down | €10–15 | Grilled meats, stews, sides |
| Mid-range restaurant | €25–35 | Full meal with wine, good service |
| Fine dining | €40+ | Upscale Serbian cuisine, often with wine pairing |