Restaurants on the Water on the Island of Hvar in Croatia

Fine dining with a perfect view does not come much better than front row opposite the Pakleni Islands in Hvar Town. Some tips on where to find a bite.

There are some excellent restaurants tucked away in theback streets of Hvar Town, but for location it is hard to beat the stunning views on the water overlooking the harbour and Pakleni Islands.

Gariful

Location, location, location. Seafood, seafood, seafood. If you are looking for a first row fish fest, Gariful is the place to be. Situated next to Carpe Diem, Gariful has some of the best fish on the island, and guests can select their lobsters from the aquarium which doubles up at the floor on entering the restaurant. A favourite for the boating crowd, Gariful is exclusive, expensive and excellent.

diVino

Moving further down away from town, new arrival on the scene diVino Wine Studio boasts a wine list ranging from island wines to Grand Crus from Bordeaux. The menu is traditional with elements of Greek and Mediterranean, while the fresh salad bar is superb. With its slightly elevated position, diVino is as good a place as any to take in the view.

Vartal

Further along the coast and away from the main drag Restaurant Vartal is nestled in the small cove opposite the Franciscan monastery. A nice alternative for diners looking to escape the crowds, Vartal's pleasant outside space overlooking the monastery and sea, the food is excellent, and the meat dishes are particularly good.

Restaurant Robinson

Diners with energy in search of something a little different, head to Robinson Restaurant in Mekiceva Bay, a 2km walk from the centre of town. A little stone house with wooden tables outside under an olive tree overlooking a picturesque bay, while serving up homemade traditional specialities that rarely appear on other menus. Dalmatia at its finest.

Bounty

Back in town and moving away from the Pjaca in the opposite direction, Restaurant Bounty is often overlooked for its less fashionable appearance, which is a shame, as the food (and particularly the steaks) are as good as any in town, and the prices are more than reasonable given the location.

Kod Kapetana

For a fish splurge, keep walking until you come to the terrace of Kod Kapetana, which offers a seafood feast with a wide selection of the freshest fish.

Villa Dinka

A more affordable seafront restaurant well worth the walk is Villa Dinka, located almost within the Hotel Amfora complex. Pizza and pasta dishes are particularly recommended.

The hotels of Suncani Hvar also offer some good dining alternatives, and there are few places more atmospheric to enjoy a meal than the main square itself. The dilemma for tourists on Hvar is too many good eateries and not enough mealtimes in the day.