4 Best Restaurants in Istria, Croatia

The Old Mill pizzeria may look touristy—it is, after all, centrally located right by the harbor, and it is packed—but it's also good, and the raised terrace gives you the feeling of being a bit above the fray. This is the best place in town for pizza, spaghetti, salads, čevapčići (grilled Balkan sausages) and tiramisu.

Located on a quiet street a couple of blocks from the Forum, this is Pula's premier place for casual budget-friendly Italian fare. Try any of its more than 20 types of wood-fired pizza, grilled meats like ćevapi (small minced-meat sausages), or a plate of homestyle pasta as you sip a glass of house red wine at one of the rustic wooden tables on the rear terrace. It's ideal for families and large groups, with ample indoor and outdoor space.

With 50-plus varieties of delicious thin-crust pizzas, there's plenty to choose from at this conveniently located venue along the narrow road leading up to the main cathedral. Pizzas are all baked in a wood-burning oven and are so good locals come from all over Istria to get them. Inside it's pleasantly cool, even on a hot day. The interior spreads out over two floors, but try to get a table downstairs, where wooden tables and benches give it the feel of an old Italian tavern and the atmosphere is more vibrant.

Right across the street from the main tourist office, the Nono is teeming with locals and tourists who go crazy over the scrumptious comfort-food fare. You'll find everything from wood-fired pizzas and fresh green salads to grilled squid and french fries, burgers, and ćevapi (regional sausages).