Culinary Guide: Local Gastronomy in Serbia

Published on October 4, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Serbia, a country at the heart of the Balkans, offers a rich and varied culinary experience that reflects its history and culture. For newly arrived expatriates, diving into Serbian cuisine is an exciting adventure that allows for a better understanding and appreciation of this host country. This guide will take you on a journey to discover local flavors, from traditional markets to iconic restaurants, while giving you the keys to navigate this new culinary culture.

Serbian Culinary Specialties Not to Miss

Serbian cuisine is renowned for its hearty and flavorful dishes, blending Ottoman, Mediterranean, and Central European influences. Here are some must-try specialties:

Ćevapi: These small grilled meat sausages, typically served with flatbread, onions, and kajmak (thick cream), are considered the national dish of Serbia. They can be found in almost every traditional restaurant and street food stand.

Pljeskavica: Often nicknamed the “Serbian hamburger,” this thick minced steak is made from a blend of beef, pork, and lamb, grilled and served in a flatbread with various toppings.

Sarma: These cabbage rolls stuffed with minced meat and rice are a beloved traditional dish, especially in winter.

Ajvar: This spread made from grilled red peppers is a ubiquitous condiment in Serbian cuisine, often served as a side or used as a base for other dishes.

Gibanica: This cheese-filled pastry is a Serbian breakfast classic but can be enjoyed at any time of day.

Traditional Markets: An Immersion in Serbian Food Culture

To truly understand and appreciate Serbian gastronomy, nothing beats a visit to the local markets. These lively and colorful places are the heart of the country’s food culture.

Kalenic Market (Belgrade): This is one of the largest and most popular markets in the capital. You’ll find a wide variety of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and local cured meats.

Zeleni Venac Market (Belgrade): Located downtown, this market offers a broad selection of seasonal fruits and vegetables, as well as street food stalls to sample local specialties on the go.

Futoška pijaca Market (Novi Sad): In the country’s second-largest city, this market is known for its farm products and stalls featuring traditional Vojvodina items.

• Go early in the morning for the best selection of fresh products
• Don’t hesitate to taste before buying; it’s a common and appreciated practice among vendors
• Learn a few words in Serbian to communicate with vendors; they’ll appreciate your effort

Iconic Restaurants: Tasting Authentic Serbian Cuisine

For a more formal culinary experience, Serbia is full of traditional restaurants where you can enjoy local specialties in a typical atmosphere.

Kafana “?” (Belgrade): The oldest restaurant in Belgrade, dating back to 1823, offers a unique atmosphere and traditional Serbian dishes.

Dva Jelena (Belgrade): Located in the bohemian Skadarlija district, this restaurant serves authentic Serbian cuisine accompanied by live music.

Restoran Durmitor (Novi Sad): Known for its grilled meat dishes and warm ambiance, this is a must-visit in Novi Sad.

Zlatar (Zlatibor): In the mountainous Zlatibor region, this restaurant is famous for its local specialties, particularly lamb and mountain cheeses.

• Prioritize establishments frequented by locals
• Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations from your hotel staff or Serbian colleagues
• Try the “kafana,” traditional taverns that often offer the most authentic cuisine

Table Etiquette: Navigating Serbian Cultural Codes

Understanding table etiquette is essential for fitting in and avoiding cultural missteps. Here are some important points to remember:

• It’s polite to wait for the host to start eating before serving yourself
• Complimenting the food is highly appreciated
• It’s common to offer seconds multiple times; don’t feel obligated to accept every time

• Business meals are often long and may include alcohol
• Toasting is common; wait for your host to initiate it first
• Avoid discussing business immediately; take time to build a relationship

• Use utensils for eating, even for dishes traditionally eaten with hands
• It’s polite to taste all the dishes served
• Leave a little food on your plate to show you’re full

Finding International Ingredients: Satisfying Cravings for World Cuisine

Although Serbian cuisine is delicious, it’s normal to sometimes crave dishes from your home country. Here are some tips for finding international ingredients in Serbia:

International Supermarkets: In major cities like Belgrade and Novi Sad, you’ll find supermarkets specializing in international products. For example, “Maxi” and “Idea” often have sections dedicated to foreign goods.

Asian Markets: For Asian ingredients, visit small grocery stores run by the Chinese community, particularly in the Blok 70 neighborhood of Belgrade.

Online Shops: Websites like “Kutlacica” or “Delhaize” offer a wide range of international products delivered to your home.

Organic and Health Food Stores: These shops, increasingly common, often offer a selection of ingredients that are hard to find elsewhere.

• Learn to use local equivalents for certain ingredients
• Join expatriate groups on social media to exchange tips and addresses
• Don’t hesitate to ask your local grocer if they can order specific products for you

Contemporary Culinary Trends in Serbia

Although traditional cuisine remains very popular, the Serbian gastronomic scene is evolving and opening up to new influences. Here are some trends to follow:

Balkan Fusion: Many chefs are reinterpreting traditional dishes with modern techniques and international influences.

Slow Food Movement: There is growing interest in local, organic, and seasonal products.

Vegetarian and Vegan Cuisine: More and more restaurants are offering meat-free options, responding to increasing demand.

Gourmet Street Food: Street food stalls are multiplying, offering refined versions of Serbian and international classics.

Conclusion

Discovering Serbian gastronomy is an exciting adventure that will allow you to better understand and appreciate your host country. From colorful markets to traditional restaurants, and through new culinary trends, Serbia offers a rich and varied tasting experience. Don’t hesitate to step out of your comfort zone, try new dishes, and share meals with locals. It’s often around a table that the best connections are made and where you can truly absorb the local culture.