Food & Dining in Belgrade

Good to Know

• Belgrade's traditional Serbian cuisine is exceptionally meat-focused; vegetables and legumes appear primarily as sides or in specific dishes like prebranac and ajvar
• Skadarlija (bohemian quarter) is the touristy dining hub with traditional restaurants, live folk music, and higher prices – venture into Dorćol and other central neighborhoods for better value
• Lunch is the main meal of the day in Serbian culture; many traditional kafanas serve limited dinner menus
• Indoor smoking remains legal in Belgrade restaurants and cafes, creating a smoky atmosphere in many venues
• Rakija (brandy) is sipped slowly in small glasses, not consumed as shots; plum rakija is the most traditional variety
• Grilled meat (roštilj) culture is central to Serbian dining – even casual street-food pljeskavica vendors are excellent quality
• Serbian Orthodox fasting periods (especially before Easter and Christmas) create vegetarian-heavy menus across many restaurants – a hidden advantage for plant-based diners
• Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 10% is customary for good service
• Restaurant staff in central Belgrade generally speak English; outside tourist areas, English is less common