Restaurants in Varaždin and what to eat

Restaurants in Varaždin are based on the cuisine of northern Croatia, known for its clearly defined identity and long-standing tradition.

Dishes most commonly associated with Varaždin include Varaždin klipići, Zagorje štrukli, turkey with mlinci, Varaždin cabbage, Vidovec gibanik, Varaždin-style roast, and the Patačić beef fillet. These are dishes deeply rooted in local tradition and regularly featured on restaurant menus in Varaždin.

Varaždin klipići, štrukli and mlinci

Varaždin klipići are one of the most recognisable baked goods from this region – thin, crispy and lightly salted, often served warm as an introduction to the meal. Zagorje štrukli, made from dough and fresh cheese, are served either boiled or baked, while mlinci are a traditional side dish most commonly paired with turkey.

Varaždin cabbage as a protected product

Varaždin cabbage is a protected product and considered one of the highest quality varieties of cabbage in Croatia. It is used in a range of dishes or served as a side, with its distinctive flavour playing an important role in the local cuisine.

Traditional dishes and desserts

Turkey with mlinci is one of the most well-known dishes of continental Croatia and a regular feature in Varaždin restaurants. In addition, Varaždin-style roast and the Patačić beef fillet highlight the influence of traditional cooking on the local gastronomic scene.

Among desserts, Vidovec gibanik stands out – a layered pastry with various fillings, typical of the Varaždin area and often served as a final course.

Varaždin and its gastronomic scene

Varaždin is one of the most important cities in northern Croatia, known for its baroque architecture and well-preserved old town. In the city centre, you’ll find the Old Town of Varaždin, a historic castle that is one of the main landmarks and a common starting point for exploring the city.

Thanks to its charm, historical significance and easy accessibility, Varaždin is a popular destination for day trips and weekend visits. This directly contributes to a steady demand for restaurants in Varaždin and the surrounding area.

Špancirfest

Špancirfest is Varaždin’s most famous event and one of the largest festivals in Croatia. It takes place at the end of August and attracts a large number of visitors, street performers and exhibitors.

During the festival, the entire city centre turns into a vibrant event zone, and restaurants in Varaždin experience a significant increase in demand. At this time, securing a table becomes especially important.

Varaždin cabbage and local events

In the Varaždin area, particularly in Vidovec, events dedicated to Varaždin cabbage are held, such as the festival “Bez zelja nema veselja”. These events highlight the importance of local produce and attract visitors looking to experience authentic regional cuisine.

Drinks and local products

Alongside the food, restaurants in Varaždin commonly serve wines from continental Croatia, particularly Graševina, which is widely represented in this part of the country and pairs well with traditional dishes.

You will also find homemade spirits such as plum brandy, pear brandy and apple brandy, although these are part of a broader continental tradition and not specific exclusively to Varaždin.

How to book a restaurant in Varaždin online

Booking a restaurant in Varaždin can be done online in just a few simple steps. Choose a restaurant from the list, select your preferred date and time, and enter the number of guests.

With the Table Joe platform, you can reserve a table quickly and easily, without phone calls or waiting.

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