Sarajevo, a city that blends cultures from the East and West, is a food lover’s paradise. The cuisine reflects the city’s diverse influences, from Ottoman traditions to Central European flavors. Whether you're strolling through the old town, Baščaršija, or relaxing in a local café, Sarajevo offers a wide variety of dishes that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. Here’s a guide to the must-try foods when you visit Sarajevo.
Ćevapi (Grilled Minced Meat)
One of the most famous dishes in Bosnia and Herzegovina, ćevapi is a must-try for anyone visiting Sarajevo. These small, juicy, grilled sausages are made from minced beef and lamb and are typically served with somun (a type of flatbread), chopped onions, and a dollop of ajvar (a red pepper-based sauce). You'll find ćevapi on nearly every corner of the city, from street vendors to upscale restaurants.
Where to try: For a delicious experience, head to places like Željo or Avlija, where locals swear by the quality and taste of their ćevapi.
Burek (Pastry Filled with Meat)
Burek is a savory pastry filled with minced meat (beef, lamb, or a mix of both), onions, and spices, wrapped in thin, flaky dough. This beloved dish has Ottoman roots and can be found throughout Sarajevo. It's crispy on the outside, tender and flavorful on the inside, and often served with a side of yogurt to balance the richness of the pastry.
Where to try: For some of the best burek, visit Buregdžinica Sac or Avlija. Both are local favorites offering freshly baked burek every day.
Sogan-Dolma (Stuffed Onions)
Sogan-dolma is a comforting and hearty dish that features onions stuffed with a mixture of minced meat, rice, and spices. The stuffed onions are then slowly cooked in a rich tomato sauce, creating a delicious, aromatic meal. This dish is a traditional Bosnian comfort food, perfect for those who enjoy savory and flavorful meals.
Where to try: 4 Sobe Gospođe Safije is a great place to try this dish in an authentic, homey setting.
Pita (Pie)
A variety of savory pies, or pite, are staples of Bosnian cuisine, with the most popular being zeljanica (spinach and cheese pie), meso pita (meat pie), and krompiruša (potato pie). These pies are made with thin, delicate layers of dough, and they’re filled with ingredients that range from vegetables to meat. Whether enjoyed as a snack, a light meal, or a side dish, pite are a beloved part of Bosnian food culture.
Where to try: Check out Pekara Klas or Buregdžinica Sac for fresh and flavorful pite.
Grilled Fish
Located near the Miljacka River, Sarajevo is also home to great fish dishes, particularly freshwater fish such as trout. Grilled fish is often served with a side of sautéed vegetables, potatoes, or a simple salad. The fresh fish, perfectly grilled and lightly seasoned, offers a delicious taste of Sarajevo’s culinary diversity.
Where to try: For a great fish experience, head to Avlija Restaurant or Kovačević for locally sourced fish dishes.
Sarma (Stuffed Cabbage Rolls)
Sarma is a comforting dish of cabbage leaves stuffed with minced meat and rice, slowly simmered in a tangy tomato sauce. This dish is common throughout the Balkans, but Sarajevo puts its own twist on it. Sarma is especially popular during the colder months and is a perfect dish to enjoy with friends and family.
Where to try: Try 4 Sobe Gospođe Safije or Avlija for delicious sarma that will warm your soul.
Tufahija (Apple Dessert)
If you have a sweet tooth, don't miss tufahija, a delicious dessert made of poached apples stuffed with sugar, walnuts, and cinnamon, then drenched in syrup. This unique treat is a Sarajevo specialty that you won't find in many other places, and it’s the perfect way to end your meal on a sweet note.
Where to try: For a taste of authentic tufahija, visit Avlija or Sedef in the heart of Baščaršija.
Kafa (Bosnian Coffee)
Bosnian coffee is a vital part of Sarajevo’s social life. It’s similar to Turkish coffee but made with finely ground coffee beans, sugar, and water, served in small cups alongside a glass of water and a piece of Turkish delight. Coffee culture in Sarajevo is deeply rooted in tradition, and it's common for locals to gather in cafés for long, leisurely coffee breaks.
Where to try: Experience the full Bosnian coffee ritual at Bazar Café or Avlija for an authentic, relaxed coffee experience.
Rakija (Fruit Brandy)
No meal in Sarajevo is truly complete without a shot of rakija, a traditional fruit brandy made from plums, grapes, or apples. It’s often served as an aperitif or digestive after meals and is an essential part of Bosnian hospitality. Rakija comes in various flavors, from the smooth, honeyed taste of medovača to the more robust flavors of šljivovica (plum rakija).
Where to try: Many traditional taverns in Sarajevo, like Tavern Avlija, serve rakija to accompany their hearty meals.