Restaurants in Osijek – what to eat

Restaurants in Osijek base their menus on Slavonian and Baranja cuisine. Common dishes include: fiš paprikaš (fish stew), čobanac, perkelt, carp, pike-perch, kulen, sausages, bacon, sarma, vegetable stews, sataraš, pasta with cabbage, Wiener schnitzel, roasted meat, strudels, dumplings and taške.

Osijek is a city on the Drava River, which is clearly reflected in its restaurant offerings. Fish dishes are prepared using freshwater fish such as carp and catfish, while meat dishes come from Slavonian tradition, where pork, paprika and slow-cooked meals are dominant.

Slavonian cuisine in Osijek

The cuisine of Osijek and Slavonia is known for bold flavours, spices and dishes prepared in larger portions, often meant for sharing. Paprika, meat and slow cooking are the key elements of most dishes.

Fiš paprikaš

Fiš paprikaš is one of the most famous dishes of this region. It is made from freshwater fish such as carp and catfish, with ground paprika giving it its distinctive flavour and colour.

Čobanac

Čobanac is a rich meat stew traditionally cooked in a cauldron, usually made from several types of meat such as pork and beef. It is known for its spicy flavour and slow cooking process.

Kulen and cured meats

Kulen is one of the most famous Slavonian products, often served alongside homemade sausages, bacon and cracklings.

Osijek and surrounding area

Osijek is the largest city in Slavonia and the administrative centre of Osijek-Baranja County. Located on the Drava River, the city is known for its relaxed lifestyle, and its residents are commonly referred to as “Lege”.

Nearby is Baranja, one of the most well-known gastronomic regions in Croatia. Baranja is famous for its wine routes, restaurants and dishes such as fiš paprikaš and čobanac, and is a popular destination for day trips and traditional meals outside the city.

What to visit in Osijek

During your stay in Osijek, it is worth visiting Tvrđa, the baroque historic centre of the city, as well as the Co-cathedral of St. Peter and Paul, one of the tallest churches in Croatia, located in the city centre.

Along the Drava River stretches a long promenade and cycling path leading all the way to Osijek Zoo, one of the largest in Croatia. Popular spots also include the Promenade, European Avenue with its historic buildings, and the main square of Ante Starčević.

Osijek is known for its greenery and parks, so riverside walks and evenings spent in restaurants and bars along the Drava are among the most popular activities for visitors.

How to reserve a restaurant in Osijek

If you are looking for restaurants in Osijek or the surrounding area, you can quickly find a restaurant, choose a date and time, and reserve a table online in just a few clicks via the Table Joe platform.