Modern European is the catch-all for kitchens that borrow technique from France, produce from their own region and ideas from everywhere — usually tasting-menu only.
In Belgrade the modern European list is led by Iva New Balkan Cuisine in Vračar (One MICHELIN Star, 4,500 - 6,000 RSD / 40 - 55 USD per person).
- 1.
Iva New Balkan Cuisine
One MICHELIN StarModern Balkan · Vračar · 4,500 - 6,000 RSD / 40 - 55 USD
Vanja Puškar
Chef Vanja Puškar's innovative approach reinvents Balkan gastronomy. The menu interprets traditional recipes with avant-garde flair, using seasonal local ingredients. The intimate setting complements the culinary journey, offering a fresh perspective on regional flavors. It's a true flagship for contemporary Serbian dining.
Order: Karađorđeva steak in a new way, Lamb with kajmak
- 2.
The Square
MICHELIN SelectedModern European · Stari Grad · 5,000 - 7,500 RSD / 45 - 70 USD
Located within the Square Nine Hotel, this restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on refined European cuisine. The elegant, minimalist design provides a serene backdrop for dishes that prioritize fresh, high-quality ingredients and precise execution. It's a classic choice for a formal occasion.
Order: Pan-seared scallops, Dry-aged beef
- 3.
Salon 1905
MICHELIN SelectedModern European · Savamala · 6,000 - 8,500 RSD / 55 - 75 USD
Housed in a stunning Art Nouveau building, Salon 1905 delivers a grand dining experience with a focus on modern European dishes. The opulent interior, high ceilings, and impeccable service create an atmosphere of old-world glamour. It's ideal for special celebrations, offering both visual and culinary delight.
Order: Beef Wellington, Foie gras terrine
- 4.
Magellan
MICHELIN SelectedInternational · Novi Beograd · 5,500 - 7,000 RSD / 50 - 65 USD
Magellan takes diners on a culinary journey with an eclectic international menu, featuring dishes inspired by global flavors. The stylish interior and attentive service contribute to a refined dining experience. It's a good choice for those seeking diverse, expertly prepared cuisine in a modern setting away from the city center bustle.
Order: Black Angus steak, Tuna tartare
- 5.
Homa
MICHELIN SelectedCreative European · Dorćol · 6,000 - 8,000 RSD / 55 - 70 USD
Homa distinguishes itself with creative and experimental European cuisine, often incorporating unexpected ingredients and textures. The chic, minimalist design, including an impressive wine cellar, sets a sophisticated stage. This restaurant pushes culinary boundaries, offering a truly modern and memorable dining adventure for adventurous palates.
Order: Deconstructed sarma, Octopus with black garlic
Booking a modern European table in Belgrade
- · For MICHELIN-selected or starred restaurants, book 2-4 weeks in advance, especially for weekend evenings. Utilize online reservation platforms like Opentable where available, or call directly.
- · Some high-end restaurants may require a credit card guarantee or a non-refundable deposit for larger parties or peak times. Always confirm the cancellation policy to avoid charges.
- · Consider dining at lunch, if offered. Many fine-dining establishments provide a more accessible tasting menu or à la carte options at a reduced price compared to dinner, offering excellent value.
- · Be mindful of no-show policies; failing to cancel within the specified window can result in charges. Communicate any delays or changes to your reservation promptly to the restaurant.
And the local dishes in Belgrade
Cevapi
Grilled minced meat (usually a mix of beef and lamb) sausages, served with chopped onion and often kajmak (a creamy dairy product) in lepinja (flatbread). It's a staple of Balkan cuisine, incredibly flavorful and hearty. Try them at Tri Šešira in Skadarlija for a classic experience.
Sarma
Slow-cooked rolls of pickled cabbage leaves filled with a mixture of minced meat and rice. This traditional dish is a winter comfort food, rich in flavor and often served with a dollop of sour cream or kajmak. It's a taste of grandmother's cooking, best savored slowly in a cozy restaurant like Manufaktura.
Karađorđeva Šnicla
A popular Serbian dish named after Karađorđe, a leader of the First Serbian Uprising. It's a rolled veal or pork cutlet, stuffed with kajmak, then breaded and deep-fried. Often served with tartar sauce, it's a rich, decadent, and satisfying meal. Find it at traditional eateries like Dva Jelena.
Pljeskavica
A seasoned meat patty, typically made from a mix of pork, beef, and lamb, grilled and served in lepinja with various toppings like onions, kajmak, or ajvar. It's often referred to as the Serbian burger, a flavorful and robust street food or restaurant meal. Walter Sarajevski Ćevap serves excellent versions.
Seven days in Belgrade
Pair these modern European tables with the full itinerary: neighbourhoods, museums and what to skip.
Read the Belgrade travel guide