The best Lošinj restaurants

Named after the star Austrian architect who designed it, the Alfred Keller is a riot of marble and onyx, overlooking scenic Čikat Bay. Given the fact that the inspectors at Gault&Millau bestowed not one but two chef ’s toques on this upscale à la carte dining destination, the cuisine more than matches the sumptuous furnishings. Chef Thomas Brasleret delves deep into Lošinj culinary lore – and sources as close to home as possible, particularly where aromatic herbs and seasonal organic products are concerned – to conjure something memorable. Of course, the material he has to work with is already first-class, Cres lamb, fresh clams and shellfish, Istrian boškarin beef, even donkey meat – but it takes that little bit extra to complement each dish with a local or international wine from over 400 labels lining the cellar. Open from April to November.

Top-quality sushi and an open kitchen are the hallmarks of this swish Asian restaurant in the Hotel Bellevue. It’s, in fact, a fusion cuisine, in that in chef Saša Pribičević uses locally sourced Mediterranean ingredients from nearby organic producers to create his sublime maki, nigiri and chirashi, not to mention kimchi and dashi fish soup. Invention isn’t restricted to your main course – the matcha ice cream comes with a sweet paste of healthy adzuki beans. Authenticity stretches to the drinks list, where you’ll find Japanese whiskies from the likes of Nikka Taketsuru, sake brandies and wines, both sparkling and still. The acclaimed Frantić-Šekoranja studio was responsible for the exquisite decor. Open from July to December.

The signature restaurant of the Vitality Hotel Punta in smaller, quieter Veli Lošinj reflects the tranquillity of the picture-postcard harbour around it. On its expansive terrace, overlooking the divine blue of the Adriatic, you can take your time over the succulent peka dishes slow-cooked under a so-called cooking bell – just give them a call to have the kitchen staff prepare your feast a few hours ahead of time. The seafood is fresh, the lamb and veal chops juicy, and the boškarin beef exquisite. Choose from some 50 Croatian wines to accompany. Open from April to October.

Freshly opened in 2019, Silver Bay offers sophisticated versions of Mediterranean classics, set on a sea-facing promenade. You’ll find plenty of Adriatic fish and meat dishes alongside fresh salads and cold cuts. There’s an impressive cocktail list to sample at any time, but if you’re going for the full meal experience, you might prefer to pair your menu choices with some of the excellent Croatian wine, sparkling wine and champagnes from the restaurant’s well-stocked cellar.