Complete Vegan & Vegetarian Guide to Croatia

Croatia is famous for its natural beauty, including national parks, stunning landscapes, crystal-clear seas, and, of course, incredible food. From cheese, olives, and olive oil to fish, impeccable wine, cured meat, and the famous Istrian truffles, Croatia is a must-visit destination for every foodie.

Having spent most of my life in Croatia before moving to London, I enjoy returning home to savour traditional Croatian food made vegan and explore restaurants across the country.

VEGAN IN CROATIA

Unfortunately, veganism is not a widely discussed topic in Croatia, and it can be challenging to find good places to eat. The reason for this is that Croatian cuisine is heavily centred around meat and cheese, which makes it difficult for restaurants to offer vegan dishes. While there are always some options available, veganism is still somewhat of a taboo, and it often feels like restaurants are not making an effort to expand their vegan offerings.

Additionally, there is a common misconception that most pescatarians in Croatia are actually vegetarians, as fish is not considered meat. This comes from a Catholic practice of abstaining from meat on Fridays, during which fish-based dishes were preferred.

TRADITIONAL CROATIAN DISHES