Hello dear
At Kantina Restaurant, located in the heart of Pula, Croatia, we celebrate the essence of Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Our journey began with a passion for authentic Croatian flavors, evident in each dish—from handmade pasta to succulent grilled lamb chops. Guests are welcomed with traditional delights, such as creamy cheeses and local specialties, enhancing their culinary experience. The charming ambiance, featuring old European stone walls and a lovely rooftop garden, complements our exceptional service. Whether it's the vibrant tastes of our seafood or the warm hospitality of our staff, dining at Kantina is a memorable experience for all.
About
Kantina Restaurant is a hidden gem located in the heart of Pula, Croatia, at Flanatička ul. 16. This delightful dining venue captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine while offering an inviting atmosphere that blends old European charm with modern hospitality. As you approach the restaurant, you're greeted by its rustic stone walls and an enchanting open-roof area that creates an idyllic setting for an unforgettable meal.
One hallmark of Kantina Restaurant is its commitment to authentic Croatian culinary experiences. The reviews from satisfied diners highlight the excellent quality of food and its generous portions. One guest, elena caviola, praised a signature Croatian pasta dish featuring prosciutto, tomatoes, parmesan cheese, and fresh rocket—a harmonious blend of flavors that showcases the local ingredients. Another diner, Ebin Zacharias, reminisced about the whole fish he ordered, which burst with authentic Mediterranean flavors, perfectly cooked to allow the freshness of local seafood to shine.
But the experience at Kantina is not just about the food. The level of service is consistently lauded, with many patrons noting the attentiveness and friendliness of the staff. Arne Johan Espeland remarked on the respectful and friendly nature of the waiter, making the dining experience all the more enjoyable. Whether you choose to dine inside or in the charming roof garden, the atmosphere is perfect for creating memorable moments with family and friends.
The menu also impresses with its diverse selections, from grilled lamb chops that Lppm described as a delightful Mediterranean treat to creative starters like whipped cream cheese and truffle paired with fresh homemade bread—a combination that Mike Kearon found exquisite. The dessert offerings, praised for their quality and taste, provide a sweet conclusion to a sumptuous meal, as highlighted by Julia Ginzhul’s experience with delightful sweet treats.
Moreover, Kantina Restaurant positions itself strategically away from the bustling tourist crowds, offering visitors an authentic Croatian dining experience without the hustle and bustle, as noted by Elizabeth. This makes it an ideal spot to unwind and savor every bite, alongside a carefully curated wine list to complement your meal.
In summary, Kantina Restaurant is not just a place to eat; it's a culinary journey through Croatia’s rich flavors, enhanced by welcoming services and a charming ambiance. For anyone in Pula looking for an exceptional dining experience that celebrates local cuisine, Kantina is a destination you won’t want to miss.
“ I dined at Kantina Restaurant last night and highly recommend it! I enjoyed a delicious Croatian pasta dish with prosciutto, tomato, parmigian cheese and rocket. The flavours were fantastic, and the portion was generous. The service was excellent, and they welcomed us with a traditional Croatian creamy cheese, which was a nice touch. To finish my dinner, I had a tasty dessert: chocolate, red fruit and nuts cheesecake. The restaurant has a super relaxing atmosphere! The location is ideal—right in the heart of Pula's old town and only a 10-minute walk from the Arena. ”
“ Our waiter was amongst the most respectful and friendly I have ever met, absolutely fantastic service. The food was also great, we tried authentic Croatian dishes, and were very pleased. The restaurant also has a strategic location, at the end/beginning of a closed street, it also features outside and inside dining, and a separate coffee bar. We will definitely come back. ”
“ HIDDEN GEM - found this lovely restaurant on Google maps and decided to give it a go. It was a quiet Monday in April, so we didn't need a reservation. Our meal started with a lovely whipped cream cheese and truffle served with fresh homemade bread and a beetroot and balsamic drizzle. It was delicious. Next was the Istrian sausage. Presentation again beautiful served with rocket, walnuts and dried fruits (apricot and dates). This was finished with the thinnest of dried threads (think vermicelli) of chilli. Main courses were traditional pasta of Pljukanci with Smoked Gilt-Head Sea Bream and Adriatic Prawns / Pljukanci with Boskarin beef giravolta and goat cheese. Both again 10/10. It's a shame it's our last night here as we'd definitely be visiting again! ”
“ I have a special weakness for Mediterranean food, and this restaurant gave it the right taste. The grilled lamb chops are very delicious, and their handmade pasta was great! The experience of eating in the roof garden is truly charming. The service could have been a little faster, but overall a great experience! ”
“ Wonderfully fresh food, good portions, kind service, and great wine list. It's also away from the big tourist crowds, but still a very close walk. Highly recommend! ”