Restaurants on Korčula island

Slightly off the main Korčula-Vela Luka road in the hillside village of Pupnat, is this popular, family-run find. Ingredients are grown on-site. The pršut ham comes from the smokehouse behind the terrace; the pastas (such as the goats’ cheese ravioli) are hand-rolled and sun-dried, and the lamb and pork are cooked under the peka lid. The pašticada, a slow-cooked roast swimming in plums and sweet wine, is excellent.

Set a few steps from the monumental western entrance to the old town, the charming terrace of Hotel Korčula captures the mood of the town's belle époque. This is the spot to enjoy coffee among the local clientele, gathered to read the papers and discuss the weather and political developments beneath the blooming oleanders.

If you find yourself lingering long after the first drink, preferring the shade to the heat of beach, consider the excellent daytime snacks: local pršut, cheese and Torkul olive oil, or the chocolate, carob and orange flavors of the Arula cake. 

Hotel's Korčula's bistro, occupying one half of the terrace, also serves a good and affordable breakfast in the morning. In the evening, a selection of traditional dishes such as the handmade žrnovski makaruni (pasta) and cuttlefish risotto keep hotel guests happy as they watch the sunset, followed by orange-infused crêpes or a refreshing lemon sorbet.

Among all the islets in Korčula’s archipelago, Vrnik has a uniquely laid-back atmosphere, with a town beach of small pebbles and sea colours so vivid you’ll have trouble deciding between jumping in and observing from the shore. Opened in 2018, Vrnik Arts Club offers great, though pricey food on the tranquil terrace in front of what was once the island's school. The standout starters are the fried shrimp, the local hard cheese and pršut—served with melon, candied almonds and olives—and the swordfish ceviche. Among the mains, fresh traditional seafood dishes, some with atypical sides, pastas, and heartier meat options all live up to the setting. While some patrons stay for dessert, others opt for another swim or a round of boules to the left of the town church before boarding their boats and heading back to Korčula or Pelješac. 

A short drive from Korcula Town towards Lumbarda, Maslina is a no-frills restaurant that remains one of our favourites on the island. The pogača with aubergine and cheese, the fish pâté, and seasonal salads are wonderful starters, while the hearty swordfish, pašticada, or home-made makaruni (pasta) each make a very good meal. The chocolate-coated figs and the liqueur they are served with at the end of the meal are worth the visit alone. Konoba Maslina's shaded terrace is a place to escape the crowds and the heat and enjoy great food at accessible prices.

Arula is a simple bakery and cafe, but it sits close to Korčula’s spectacular, flowery western promenade. The sweets they sell are authentic and delicious. Don't miss the traditional options like the Utopljenik (drowned man) sweet bread and the Klašuni biscuits, many of which are distinct to Korčula. You will be tempted to take at least a few things to go: enjoy the apple or cherry pies, the old-fashioned marmalade doughnuts, or indulge in the ultimate treat—the Arula cake, a delightful mix of chocolate, oranges and carob—all at prices from a pre-touristic era.

The sea around tiny Stupe, home to Moro Beach Bar, is astoundingly clear, shifting in colour between the surrounding islets, while the imposing peaks of Pelješac in the distance add to the dramatic landscape. Beach hoppers delight in the wine from Korčula (to the right of the islet) or Pelješac (to its left) and the concoctions of the bartenders, who deftly prepare drinks to the steady electronic beats. Classic Dalmatian snacks as well as the more ambitious dishes, such as the gnudi and monkfish pasta, are done impressively for a beach bar, though prices are high. As the sun descends, the few who remain have the spot to themselves, accompanied by tunes from the '80s and '90s.