The best food in Split: 10 essential Dalmatian dishes to try

Nestled between the Adriatic Sea and historic landmarks, Split is a vibrant culinary playground where old-world taverns coexist with cutting-edge eateries.

From famous dishes like pašticada (slow-cooked beef stew) to local specialties such as arambašići (cabbage rolls), food in Split is as rich in flavor as it is in history, making Croatia’s second city a true gastronomic destination.

This guide spotlights 10 must-eat dishes that capture the region’s culinary heart. Whether indulging in Split’s best street food or traditional Dalmatian comfort foods, you can enjoy local flavors from entrée to dessert.

1. Soparnik

Soparnik, one of the oldest traditional dishes from Dalmatia, is a savory pie filled with Swiss chard, onions, and garlic, encased in thin dough and baked in wood-fired ovens. A staple in the Poljica region near Split, it’s a beloved food to eat that offers a taste of local heritage.

How to eat the best soparnik in Split?

Find soparnik at Split’s local markets or traditional bakeries. Some nearby villages still bake it in the traditional way — on a stone hearth under a large, bell-shaped peka lid, with hot embers on top for intense, even heat.

2. Pašticada

A signature Dalmatian dish, pašticada is a slow-cooked beef stew marinated in wine, herbs, and garlic, then simmered for hours to achieve its rich flavor. Served with gnocchi, this hearty dish is a filling option to keep you going during a busy day of sightseeing in Split.

How to eat the best pašticada in Split?

For an authentic experience, visit a family-run konoba (local tavern) like Konoba Hvaranin, where pašticada has been perfected over generations. Don’t forget to pair yours with a glass of local Plavac Mali wine — its bold fruitiness goes hand in hand with this local dish.

3. Crni rižot

Crni rižot (black risotto) is one of the city’s most popular foods to try, made with cuttlefish or squid and flavored with ink for its signature black color and rich, umami taste. It’s a seafood lover’s delight that captures the essence of the Adriatic coast.

How to eat the best crni rižot in Split?

Visit local restaurants along the Riva Promenade or near Split's UNESCO sites, like Konoba Marjan, for the freshest crni rižot. Accompany it with some sautéed vegetables or a tangy salad drizzled with olive oil for the full Mediterranean experience as you soak in the Old Town’s charm.

4. Gregada

Gregada is a traditional Dalmatian fish stew made with layers of fresh white fish, tender potatoes, and aromatic garlic, all simmered together in a luxurious blend of olive oil and white wine. This hearty dish is the Adriatic at its best, and a must-try if it’s your first time in Split.

How to eat the best gregada in Split?

Visit restaurants like Villa Spiza, known for Dalmatian cuisine and fresh seafood. After exploring Split's many museums, enjoy gregada with crusty bread to soak up the rich broth, pairing the cultural experience with an authentic taste of the region.

5. Viška pogača

A specialty from the nearby island of Vis, viška pogača is a savory bread pie stuffed with salted anchovies, tomatoes, and onions. The Mediterranean flavors shine in this popular food, making it a favorite snack or light meal in Split.

How to eat the best viška pogača in Split?

Find this traditional dish in local bakeries or seaside cafés, especially those specializing in Dalmatian island cuisine. Enjoy it warm, straight from the oven. For an authentic experience, consider a day trip from Split to Vis.

6. Arambašići

Originating from Sinj, near Split, arambašići cabbage rolls are stuffed with a savory mixture of minced meat, garlic, and spices, then slow-cooked in a tomato sauce. They are often served during holidays and festivals but can be found year-round in certain restaurants.

How to eat the best arambašići in Split?

Sample arambašići at traditional restaurants like Konoba Kod Joze, where authentic Dalmatian cuisine is the focus. Enjoy it with a drizzle of tomato sauce, and a side of creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

7. Grilled Adriatic fish

With Split’s stunning coastal location, it’s no surprise that grilled fish is a famous food here. Popular varieties include sea bream and sea bass, often seasoned with just olive oil, garlic, and parsley to let the fish shine.

How to eat the best grilled fish in Split?

For the freshest grilled fish, visit Konoba Fetivi near the fish market, where you can watch the catch being grilled before you. Enjoy with blitva (Swiss chard) and a crisp local white wine. Pair with a Split boat tour for the perfect seaside day.

8. Brač vitalac

Heralding from the nearby island of Brač, vitalac is one of the best foods to try for more adventurous diners. Made from lamb offal, wrapped in lamb intestines, and slow-roasted on a spit, it can be found in more traditional restaurants in the city.

How to eat the best vitalac in Split?

Savor this rare dish at restaurants specializing in island cuisine, or visit Brač for the full experience during local festivals. Pair vitalac with a glass of local red wine to enhance its rich flavor. A wine-tasting tour in Split is a great way to learn more about the local varietals that can elevate your culinary experience.

9. Pasticciotti

Although this sweet pastry originates from Italy, Split has welcomed pasticciotti with open arms, and it’s now a beloved local dessert. Comprising shortcrust pastry filled with creamy custard and sometimes flavored with lemon or almonds, pasticciotti is a popular food to eat with coffee.

How to eat the best pasticciotti in Split?

Find this treat in local pastry shops around the Old Town, such as Luka Ice Cream & Cakes, where they’re freshly baked daily. Traditionally, pasticciotti is enjoyed as a sweet treat in the afternoon or as a late-night snack after dinner. Join a Split food tour to find the best in the city.

10. Dalmatinska pršut

Dalmatinska pršut is a cured ham and local delicacy celebrated for its rich, salty flavor, developed by the dry Adriatic winds during curing. It's a must-eat in Split, typically served thinly sliced with olives and cheese.

How to eat the best Dalmatinska pršut in Split

Enjoy it as an appetizer at cozy konobas or pair it with local wine at one of Split’s charming wine bars. Served on a wooden board with ripe olives, aged cheese, and fresh bread, it’s the perfect dish to savor after exploring the Diocletian's Palace.

FAQs

What food is Split famous for?

Split is known for its rich culinary traditions, especially famous foods like crni rižot, pašticada, and soparnik. These dishes reflect the deep connection between Dalmatian cuisine, local ingredients, and the region’s Mediterranean history. Split is also synonymous with seafood, with dishes like grilled fish and octopus salad on most menus.

What is the best time of year to visit Split?

Thanks to its coastal location, the best time to visit Split is from May to September, when warm temperatures allow for beach days and outdoor dining. For a more relaxed experience with fewer tourists, consider visiting in late spring or early fall.

Where can I find the best seafood in Split?

The best seafood in Split can be found along the Riva Promenade and in traditional konobas like Konoba Fetivi, where dishes are kept simple so the focus is on the fresh, local seafood.

What time do people eat dinner in Split?

Dinner in Split typically starts between 8:00 PM and 10:00 PM, reflecting the local Mediterranean lifestyle. Meals are often enjoyed leisurely, so you can make the most of time spent with family and friends.

Is it expensive to eat out in Split?

Eating out in Split offers good value, with a variety of options. Casual eateries and konobas provide hearty meals for around €10-20, making it accessible if you’re traveling alone in Split or on a budget compared to other European cities.