Strelec (Ljubljana Castle)
$$$$Grajska planota 1
Fine Dining
Fine dining inside the castle complex, with a menu that leans into Slovenian ingredients and the drama of the setting. Ideal for proposals, anniversaries, and “one special dinner” nights.
Ljubljana’s food scene is quietly excellent: traditional gostilnas, modern Slovenian cooking, and riverside restaurants where you can take your time. Use this list as a starting point, then explore by neighborhood.
Map: Restaurant Picks
Most of these places sit inside Ljubljana’s walkable core, with two standout options up on Castle Hill.
Interactive map powered by OpenFreeMap + MapLibre (based on OpenStreetMap data).
JB Restavracija
$$$Miklošičeva cesta 19
Modern Slovenian
A long-running Ljubljana classic known for refined cooking and a “formal but warm” dining-room feel. A great pick if you want modern Slovenian tradition without the castle setting.
Zlata Ladjica Restaurant
$$$Jurčičev trg 1
Seasonal + Local
Boutique riverside dining in a historic setting with an intimate atmosphere and a menu built around seasonal Slovenian produce and thoughtful pairings.
Gostilna na Gradu
$$$Grajska planota 1
Traditional Slovenian
A classic “Slovenian heritage” approach on Castle Hill—welcoming, traditional, and great for a long lunch after viewpoints. Strong choice when you want local dishes with a castle backdrop.
Valvas’or
$$$Stari trg 7
Mediterranean-leaning
A stylish Old Town restaurant in a historic townhouse—excellent for a slower dinner with Mediterranean-leaning flavors and a strong wine mood.
Restavracija Most
$$$Petkovškovo nabrežje 21
Seafood + Wine
Riverside tables by Butchers’ Bridge with a menu that balances Slovenian roots and Mediterranean influence—great for seafood nights and long “river light” evenings.
Julija
$$Stari trg 9
Modern Classics
A reliable Old Town favorite for calm, classic dining. Good for a “no-stress” reservation when you want a proper sit-down meal after a day of walking.
Gostilna Sokol
$$Ciril-Metodov trg 18
Traditional Gostilna
A lively, theatrical gostilna experience in the center. Great when you want traditional dishes in a setting that feels like a folklore postcard (and don’t mind a bit of buzz).
Druga Violina
$$Stari trg 21
Slovenian Classics
A small Old Town restaurant focused on traditional Slovenian food, with a social mission and a warm, straightforward dining-room feel. A meaningful place to plan into your trip.
Michelin Note (Slovenia Guide 2024)
Awards change over time, but the 2024 Slovenia selection is a useful snapshot when you want “the special meal” with higher confidence. Always confirm current status and reservations on official pages.
In Ljubljana
- • Strelec: highlighted by the city as a Michelin Star restaurant (2024 selection)
- • Gostilna na Gradu: highlighted by the city as a Bib Gourmand (2024 selection)
Source
See the official Ljubljana Tourism summary of the 2024 Michelin Guide Slovenia results for the full context.
Ljubljana Tourism: Michelin 2024 ↗Official Links (Hours, Menus, Reservations)
For the most accurate hours and reservation options, use the official pages below—especially in peak season and on weekends.
Dining in Ljubljana: What to Know
Reservations
For castle dining and popular Old Town tables, book ahead—especially for weekend dinners and sunset slots. Many places have lighter hours on Sundays.
Price Ranges
$ = Under ~€20 per person
$$ = ~€20–40
$$$ = ~€40–80
$$$$ = €80+
Slovenian Specialties
Look for Slovenian classics like kranjska klobasa (Carniolan sausage), štruklji (rolled dumplings), seasonal soups and stews, and cakes that pair perfectly with coffee.
Dining Times
Lunch is typically early afternoon, dinner starts around 18:00–20:00. Kitchens can close earlier than you’d expect, so aim for a first seating if you’re hungry.
Restaurants FAQs
Do you need reservations in Ljubljana restaurants?
For popular places and weekend dinners, reservations are a good idea—especially if you want a specific time or a riverside table. For casual spots, walk-ins are often fine earlier in the evening.
What should you try in Ljubljana?
Try Slovenian classics (like kranjska klobasa and štruklji), seasonal market-driven dishes, and modern Slovenian menus that reinterpret local ingredients.
Is tipping expected in Ljubljana?
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Many people round up or leave a small extra amount, especially for good service.
Are there good vegetarian options in Ljubljana?
Yes—many restaurants offer vegetarian choices, and you’ll find a mix of modern menus and international spots that cater well to dietary preferences.
What area is best for dining?
The Old Town and riverside core are the easiest areas for dining because you can combine dinner with a bridge loop and cafés. For a different vibe, look toward Metelkova or neighborhood spots.