Zagreb Sweet Treats and Coffee

Croatian sweets are undeniably delightful, offering a diverse range of flavours to satisfy any craving. From the comforting allure of apple cakes to the indulgent richness of cream-filled strudels and pancakes, there's something for every palate. One notable confection is the Madjarica, affectionately known as the "Hungarian girl" cake, featuring layers of chocolate and cream—a treat reserved for special celebrations. For those with a penchant for cheesecakes, Croatian versions made with cottage cheese offer a delightful balance of sweetness, often accompanied by a generous serving of fresh berries. A controversial yet beloved classic is the Čupavci, reminiscent of Australian lamingtons but with a distinct Croatian twist. Rožata, Croatia's take on custard or flan, delights with its smooth texture and subtle sweetness. Meanwhile, Kremsnita captivates with its creamy custard and delicate, flaky crust, a favourite among locals and visitors alike. For those craving a fruity indulgence, Breskvice cookies present a delightful surprise, resembling peaches both in appearance and taste, with a hint of rum-infused peach jam. Additionally, the Medjimurska Gibanica layer cake and Salenjaci pastry offer unique flavours and textures, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of Croatia and neighbouring regions. In the realm of coffee, Zagreb offers a blend of traditional and contemporary roasting styles. While lighter roasts may be less common, roasters like Cogtio and Quahwa take their craft seriously, offering a robust selection of carefully roasted beans. Exploring the city's diverse café scene reveals hidden gems, with some establishments doubling as roasteries, ensuring a fresh and flavorful coffee experience. Whether you're strolling through the neighbourhood or cycling to your next destination, Zagreb's café culture invites you to savour the moment and indulge in the city's sweet offerings.

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Zagreb

@RoamingGraciously

"Welcome to Zagreb, a city that captivates with its rich history, vibrant culture, and distinctive character. Often overlooked but brimming with charm, Zagreb stands as one of the most underrated gems I encountered last year. Steeped in history, the city has weathered significant events, from the seismic impact of a powerful earthquake in 1990 to the sweeping changes following the collapse of communism in Eastern Europe. Yet amid these historical milestones, Zagreb's spirit remains resilient and vibrant. One of the city's most enchanting traditions is the nightly ritual of lamp lighting, where gas lamps are manually lit by hand, keeping a centuries-old tradition alive. These lamp lighters, with their tales of city life, add to Zagreb's unique allure. Architecturally, Zagreb is a testament to its diverse influences, blending Romanesque, esoteric, and contemporary styles seamlessly across its skyline. Despite its rich history and architectural splendor, Zagreb maintains a welcoming and accessible atmosphere. Navigating the city is a breeze, thanks to its compact size and bike-friendly streets (excluding 'the hill,' of course). As you explore this vibrant city, relish in its authenticity and energy, embracing the opportunity to experience Zagreb beyond the tourist crowds. Get ready to uncover the hidden treasures and vibrant spirit of Zagreb, a city that truly steals the heart of all who visit."

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Korica

@RoamingGraciously

Proper Bread! The story is they are the OG for artisanal bakeries in Zagreb and still rated! I loved it for its savoury as well (but maybe that's my taste) anyway good coffee, and great professional staff who look like they enjoy their jobs. As for sweet treats, I had a cinnamon bun and it was fucking delicious! - Just go you will not be disappointed.

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The Cookie Factory

@RoamingGraciously

Not as traditional as some of the others this one changed its name a while back and is more American-influenced but still really amazing and I would totally recommend it to anyone visiting Zagreb! - Lemond cake all the way.

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Le Kolač Park Kneževa

@RoamingGraciously

I didn't go but did some research on it and the space looks incredible and so different to a lot of other places, I read that brunch is a thing and they individual cakes are all beautifully made.

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Nutelino

@RoamingGraciously

Pancakes mostly but also ice cream and coffee. Pancakes are a popular thing in Croatia and the fillings can be really interesting.

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Slastičarnica Zagreb

@RoamingGraciously

This place has been around since the 1950s and is an old school favourite with locals, coffee, ice cream, cakes and more.

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Cukeraj

@RoamingGraciously

Another great store with a few different locations Jarun, Pakoštanska 12, Centar, Petrinjska 61, Centar, Gajeva 4. The LEDENI VJETAR VOĆNI is worth a try in my professional opinion (haha) - You should go the range is great, not too sweet.

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Magnolia slastice Gundulićeva

@RoamingGraciously

Cake decorating skills are fantastic, there is a great range of everyday cakes and slices as well also it is right in the centre of Zagreb so you will walk past for sure. - From memory they also do aperitivo.

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Chocolat 041

@RoamingGraciously

Coffee, Ice Cream and Drinks sound crazy and it works the space is really slick and the service and range are great. I would go back for sure for any of the three maybe even all at once - Because you only live once!

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TORTE i to café Babonićeva

@RoamingGraciously

These guys actually have three sites Babonićeva 121/ Vrbanićeva 22/ Grahorova 5 but I think the Vrbaniceva one is the OG. Coffee will most definitely kill the sugar craving.

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Amélie

@RoamingGraciously

This place rates really high on the lemon-meringue pies, cheesecakes and quiches so if that's not enough I don't know what will. (something for everyone) Great serves and coffee is good as well. - I visited in summer and had ice cream that was great.

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Cogito Coffee Shop

@RoamingGraciously

Another coffee place (they are roasters) but have great quality everything and these are the kinds of places I like to support. - Worth a visit even if it's just for coffee each day.

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Slastičarnica Orijent

@RoamingGraciously

A family business since 1936 and really popular with locals and tourists alike, cupcakes, tortas, and everything in between. Two sites Maksimirska 34 and Froudeova 1

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Meet Mia

@RoamingGraciously

Great Bagels and Donuts (that is what I had anyway) good range and lots of sweet and savoury choices. I didn't hang around but the outdoor seating looks great and they do drinks as well both alcoholic and not.

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Velvet

@RoamingGraciously

This is another cafe but the cakes are rated! so I wanted to add it because it's super cool, a really artist's hang out, I think one owns it, in any case, everything is good just go.

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Filteraj specialty coffee & shop

@RoamingGraciously

We are Filteraj, a small specialty coffee shop focused on filling your home and life with efficiency, aesthetics and optimism. We function as a dual concept that combines a coffee shop on the one hand and a zero waste & refill shop on the other.

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Quahwa

@RoamingGraciously

Speciality Coffee shop and roasters with a range of food as well as sweet and savoury. It's a co-working space, with old coffee machines and an outside area that's great in summer.

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Booksa

@RoamingGraciously

This a great concept and very well visited by locals and tourists alike, you pay a small fee to get in but can stay for as long as you cant so perfect for digital nomad-type people of if you just wanna hang out in a library/ bookstore for a few hours but also want to enjoy a great coffee some sweet treats while you do it.

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Botaničar

@RoamingGraciously

Zagreb is a hip bar that's also a gallery social club, and cafe. I didn't go but read about it. It seems like the people who like it love it and the other way around.- I will give it ago on my next visit the local interactions would be great!

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In the yard

@RoamingGraciously

If you are in this area try and go because is a nice little local cafe with a great outdoor space and they serve delicious Cogito coffee.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Roaming Graciously

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I'm Sara, a roaming ‘gastronome’ (it’s true, I hold a Master’s Degree in Gastronomy). I am on a consent quest for unique inspiring food and beverages while celebrating the producers that make them, learning as much as possible about the cultures and regions I visit. Have a soft spot for well-crafted… well, anything --.Hailing from Australia, but currently savouring life in Northern Italy (a particularly good launch pad, in my opinion), I've mastered the art of blending philosophy with a fork. My travel philosophy? Didactic adventures. In my world, an ideal day in a new city involves coffee, bakery treats, bikes, a leisurely lunch, art exploration, bar-hopping, and perhaps a dip in a local pool (yes, I've got a list for that) local food. I have a little something to suit everyone and am versatile and adaptable when it comes to travel budgets, be it my own or others. You can find me anywhere from luxury to real-life affordability. In the rare weeks when my suitcase is stashed, I'm busy planning the next trip to visit a producer I have longed to meet, cooking or scouring antique markets for treasures (mainly spoons). If you haven’t found me in one of these activities, it is because I am tapped into academics; either developing my thesis research on the social culture of coffee or absorbing other academic papers that pique my interest. On Thatch, I'm not just your guide; I'm your culinary confidante. I am here to spice up your journeys with humour and flavour while helping you build memorable experiences of your own. These curated didactic adventures, are tried and true. Each one is bursting with expert tips and itineraries, all backed by real-world experiences and connections with Gastronomes around the globe. So, pull out your suitcase and pack your bags. You’ve just met a seasoned explorer who lives for food adventures, uncover hidden gems and forge new cross-cultural connections, together. Ready for a flavourful journey? Join me! Your Gastronome - Sara.

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