April 5, 2026
What to Eat in the Zadar Region (Zadarska Županija)? Local Cuisine Without the Tourist Traps

I believe you are already familiar with traditional Dalmatian cuisine, so in this article I will present traditional dishes (most of them) characteristic of the Zadar region.

Iški lopiž – Among the traditional dishes of the Zadar region, iška lopiž enjoys the greatest fame. It is a meat dish, usually prepared with lamb, along with vegetables and aromatic Mediterranean herbs. However, the most important element of this specialty is the vessel in which it is cooked – handmade from clay on a wooden potter’s wheel. The oldest historical references to iška pottery date back to 1530.

Stankovačka vara – This is a local, traditional sausage from the village of Stankovci in Zadar County.

Sukošanski maneštrun – Traditional maneštra from Sukošan, cooked with smoked meat and homegrown vegetables. Simple yet full of flavor, it captures the spirit of old Dalmatian cuisine.

Lamb “u tijesno” – Traditional Dalmatian lamb cooked in a tight vessel, which gives it exceptional tenderness and intense flavor – similar to peka, but without a chimney.

Tuna “po kalijsku” – Tuna po kalijsku is a traditional dish from Kali on the island of Ugljan, prepared by quickly frying flour-coated pieces of tuna in olive oil, then simmering them in a sauce of garlic, tomatoes, parsley, bay leaf, and wine.

Banjski maneštrun with squid – Banjski maneštrun with squid is a traditional Dalmatian dish from Banje on the island of Pašman, combining the richness of seafood with simple root vegetables.

Paška pita with Paški cheese – Traditional Dalmatian tart from the island of Pag, made with local sheep cheese, Paški sir. The main ingredient is Paški cheese, distinguished by its unique aroma thanks to the island’s dry and windy climate.

Benkovački prisnac – Traditional cake from Benkovac, made with fresh cheese, eggs, and flour.

Pašticada – A traditional meat dish typical of all Dalmatia – beef stewed in an aromatic sauce with wine, onions, garlic, and spices. Full of flavor, usually served with pasta or gnocchi.

Kroštule – Traditional Dalmatian cookies, deep-fried until crisp and light, often dusted with powdered sugar. Popular during holidays and celebrations, typical across Dalmatia.