The capital of Croatia is still a bit undiscovered. It's mostly Dubrovnik and Split that get the attention in this country, but there are some excellent dining options in the capital.
For the Muslim population in Zagreb, there is an abundance of halal restaurants, and the restaurants will cater to the specific dietary needs of the Muslim community. We dig deep and give our top five recommended halal food places below.
Many restaurants in Zagreb serve non-halal foods and cater to non-Muslims. If this is the case, they may not have the necessary infrastructure in place to prepare and serve halal food.
Here are a few things to consider when choosing a halal restaurant in Zagreb.
First, look for a restaurant that has a large menu of both halal and non-halal dishes. In addition, it should have large sections of tables that can be divided into seating areas for each person. For example, if you are part of a larger group, you can opt to have a table by yourselves. If you wish to have an intimate dinner with your partner or friends, you can opt to ask for a table with just two or four chairs. Make sure to ask about the restaurant's halal certificate as well.
Lastly, it's important to make sure the restaurant is clean and that there are no questionable odours haha!
Shawerma Arabia
Now, the first thing I must say is that Shawerma Arabia is not like your usual corner-side shawarma shop, it is so much more. The food is all freshly made and packed full of flavour and different textures. The staff are very nice, including the owner- he is originally from Jordan but can speak Croatian and will take you through the menu if you want. The interior is lovely and well-decorated, from the hanging lamps to the vines above.
This restaurant is a great place to go with family or friends, as they offer big tables and save you the hassle of pushing around furniture.
Namaste Bistro
If someone asked me to point out my favourite thing about this restaurant, my finger would turn to the floor. The seating offered is some of the best I have ever come across as the floor is glass and see-through, letting you see right into the kitchen whilst the chefs are working to make your meal. The menu offers good prices for the quality food you receive and the portions too.
The atmosphere is quite warm and dimly lighted, complementing the light chatter around you. This would be a great place to go to with a loved one or family.
Khala Restaurant and Bar
With cuisine from all over Asia, Khala Restaurant and Bar probably has one of the biggest and wide-ranging menus in the whole of Zagreb: fitting the whole family’s taste. The service is incredibly fast, only making you wait around 10 minutes for a whole, well-plated dish of food. The staff are very friendly and are willing to help with your every request, whether it is big or small.
The restaurant is very clean and has a modern feeling to it, with bright lighting and uniquely shaped rooms. I have been here many times and they have never failed to impress.
Omma
If I had to describe this restaurant in one word it would have to be just ‘yum’. From kimchi to spring rolls Omma will serve authentic Korean all the way through. Although the menu is not very big, they offer very good prices for your food. I would say the best time to come here is in the evening as during lunchtime, they get very busy and your waiting time can shoot right up to 50 minutes.
The food is presented beautifully and the lighting is not too bright and not too low- great for pictures and social media!
Boban
If you enjoy Italian food, fine dining, and don’t have a huge appetite, then this place is for you. The food served here is all made fresh and authentically Italian. From all kinds of pasta to pizzas to delicious tiramisu, this restaurant will leave you satisfied with whatever you get. The interior is well decorated, with lots of places for the natural light to be let in- automatically improving your mood.
The service is very fast and the staff is kind and attentive checking in on you every now and again- making sure your dining experience is the best it can be.