Best Wine Bars in Split
Croatia’s Dalmatia region has a rich history of winemaking and a remarkable selection of indigenous grape varieties and top-quality wines. Despite this, until recently, the finest wines were reserved for exclusive establishments in Split. However, with Split transforming to a thriving tourist destination, the local business scene, including the wine industry, adapted accordingly. As a result of this positive transformation, new restaurants and bars have begun to flourish around the historic old town and in various other parts of the city. These establishments take pride in offering an impressive and carefully curated wine list, catering to both locals and tourists seeking a delightful drinking experience. With an array of options to choose from, it can be overwhelming for wine enthusiasts to decide which wine bars to visit. To help navigate through this vibrant wine scene, we have compiled a list of the finest wine bars in Split, each offering a unique charm and exceptional wine selections.
Best wine bars in Split
As a burgeoning coastal destination, Split is home to a range of wine bars that cater to both novice enthusiasts and seasoned connoisseurs.
Let’s uncover some of the best wine bars in Split, where the fusion of top-quality wines made from indigenous varieties, delectable cuisine, and warm hospitality creates an unforgettable experience for wine lovers.
MoNIKa’s Wine Bar
MoNIKa’s Wine Bar is a cozy and popular wine bar located in the Varoš neighborhood, not far from Riva Promenade. The bar offers a wide selection of wines, including fresh and crisp whites, elegant rosés, and robust reds, all sourced from the finest wineries in Croatia.
In addition to wines, they also serve Croatian-style tapas, creating a delightful wine-tasting experience.
The establishment is highly regarded and praised by the visitors for its atmosphere, the variety of local wines, and the knowledge of the staff about the different wines available.
It has become a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike, seeking a taste of the finest Croatian wines.
The wine bar also organizes wine tastings, allowing wine lovers to explore and discover new flavors and varieties. It’s a great place for wine enthusiasts and those who want to explore the rich wine culture of Croatia.
Zinfandel Food & Wine bar
Named after the renowned Zinfandel grape variety (whose origins are Croatian!), Zinfandel Food & Wine Bar is a contemporary and stylish establishment located in the heart of Split’s old town.
Although at its heart a wine bar, Zinfandel offers a delightful selection of Dalmatian wines by the glass, perfectly complementing the Mediterranean-inspired menu, which features elegantly crafted dishes rather than hearty fillers.
For those seeking to savor shared moments and flavors, the bar presents an array of exquisite platters, including tantalizing cold cuts, artisan cheeses, and delectably marinated seafood.
Emphasizing a farm-to-table concept, the bar offers an exceptional array of organic and biodynamic wines from both well-established and emerging boutique wineries across Croatia.
In addition to their culinary delights and varied wine selection, the bar also offers live music every night, adding to the vibrant ambiance.
Cicibela food and wine bar
Cicibela Food and wine bar is a well-regarded restaurant on Senjska Street, one of the most beautiful and authentic streets in the area, offering a charming ambiance for diners.
The restaurant provides stunning views of the Riva promenade, St. Duje’s bell tower, and Diocletian’s Palace, creating a picturesque dining experience.
Cicibela Food and wine bar is known for its gastronomic excellence, serving Dalmatian cuisine with a focus on high-quality food and wine.
The menu offers a variety of dishes, including perfectly cooked tuna, prawns, prosciutto, and other delicious options. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the selection of wines available to complement their meals.
If you’re planning to visit Cicibela’s food and wine bar, you can enjoy a delightful dining experience while immersing yourself in the rich culture and history of Split.
It’s an ideal place to savor authentic Dalmatian cuisine and enjoy a variety of wines.
Wine bar Procaffe
Procaffe wine bar nestled within the “Procaffe” café, near the “Gusar” sports club on Spinuta is a charming and exceptional wine bar.
This place offers a delightful experience where top-quality wine takes center stage daily, and it comes at remarkably accessible prices as part of their diverse daily offerings.
Picture a haven where you can unwind without the intrusion of smoke and noise, while savoring a glass of exquisite wine and indulging in delightful treats like bruschettas with various toppings – from kulen, truffle, and salmon, to more traditional anchovies, tomatoes, and mozzarella.
They even serve up tantalizing options like tartare steak, venison sausage, carpaccio, or just a few delectable cubes of Italian mortadella, all recommended by the skillful chef
The focus is on foreign wines for a fascinating reason with an extensive selection of Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Chilean and other wines.
The high-quality ingredients on offer are mostly sourced locally – from the finest prosciutto to a variety of cheeses and more – all perfectly paired with the diverse range of wines available, according to the connoisseur himself.
All in all, the ambiance exudes both luxury and warmth, complemented by an inviting outdoor terrace for the upcoming warmer days.
Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar
Within the historic heart of Split’s enchanting Diocletian Palace stands a captivating library/bar, a delightful fusion of elegance and history.
This charming establishment boasts a fascinating heritage, being none other than the birthplace of the renowned Croatian literary pioneer, Marko Marulić, whose poetic brilliance echoes through the ages.
As you step into this exquisite wine and whiskey bar, the ambiance immediately embraces you with a sense of cultural richness and artistic allure.
The 15th-century architecture of the building transports you to a bygone era, where you can lose yourself in the splendor of history while relishing a carefully curated selection of fine wines and whiskies.
The proprietor, Agustin Sanchez, a captivating blend of Argentinian roots and Croatian heritage, brings his poetic soul and artistic flair to every aspect of the bar. His own collection of Marulić’s masterpieces, thoughtfully curated in diverse languages, beckons the bibliophiles and connoisseurs of literature to embark on a literary journey like no other.
During the warm summer evenings, this haven of culture and sophistication extends its allure with delectable small tapas meals and thrilling themed nights, enchanting its guests with tango serenades or poetry recitals under the stars. A terrace invites visitors to bask in the moonlight, while a dedicated smoking area ensures comfort for all.
In this treasure trove of books, nestled within the City Museum’s embrace and mere moments away from the awe-inspiring Peristil, one can leisurely indulge in an easy-listening soundtrack while sipping a glass of wine, immersing in the essence of literary wonders.
Embracing both local and international poets, the occasional literature evenings present an idyllic setting for a captivated audience to revel in the timeless beauty of words.
Truly, this wine and whiskey bar is a testament to the union of history, literature, and artistic passion, inviting you to celebrate the legacy of Marko Marulić and the spirit of Croatian culture in every delightful sip and turn of a page.
A magical place where stories intertwine and dreams take flight, it leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of those fortunate enough to partake in its enchantment.
Bokeria Kitchen & Wine
Bokeria Kitchen & Wine is a stylish Mediterranean restaurant and wine bar. The establishment draws inspiration from the iconic La Boqueria market in Barcelona, offering a vibrant dining experience with Mediterranean flavors and a Dalmatian vibe.
Traditional recipes inspire the restaurant’s menu, creatively reimagined to present a unique culinary experience. The food at Bokeria is known for its exceptional quality, and the restaurant boasts an extensive local wine list and classic cocktails, making it an ideal spot for wine enthusiasts.
With its appealing setting, Bokeria has become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
The restaurant’s interior exudes a sophisticated ambiance, and the establishment is frequently praised for its pleasant and relaxed atmosphere.
Visitors can savor a range of dishes reflecting the richness of Mediterranean cuisine, served with an unpretentious flair that embodies the restaurant’s down-to-earth approach.
Bokeria Kitchen & Wine has received positive reviews on various platforms, with guests praising the delightful combination of Mediterranean flavors, quality wine selection, and attentive service.
It offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, catering to various dining preferences throughout the day.
Uje Oil Bar
While not exclusively a wine bar, Uje Oil Bar deserves a spot on this list for its unique offering an excellent selection of Croatian olive oils and complementary Croatian wines.
Located near the historic Peristyle square, Uje Oil Bar showcases an array of premium extra virgin olive oils from the region, which serve as the perfect accompaniment to their carefully selected wines.
The bar’s warm and inviting atmosphere and the charm of olive wood and terracotta décor create a sensory experience that celebrates the Mediterranean’s finest offerings.
Don’t miss the opportunity to partake in an olive oil tasting alongside an impressive selection of local wines while surrounded by the rustic charm of Croatia’s culinary heritage.
Conclusion
As the wine bar culture continues to thrive in Split, it’s essential to note that this list is by no means exhaustive. The city’s wine scene constantly evolves, and new establishments may emerge, each offering its own delightful experience.
So, whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious traveler eager to explore Dalmatia’s viticultural heritage, these wine bars will surely provide an unforgettable journey through the region’s liquid treasures.
As you embark on your wine adventures in Split, we invite you to share your discoveries with us and let us know if you come across any other bars or restaurants with exceptional wine selections. Cheers to the flourishing wine culture of Split!
Our Expertise
Valentina Silovic is an experienced sommelier and content creator with over a decade of expertise in the wine industry. She has worked in various settings, from luxurious hotels to cozy wine bars, and has explored the grandest wineries in Croatia, tasting and discussing an uncountable number of bottles along the way.
Want to meet the team behind Wine & more, seek recommendations, and discover in-depth insights into our product testing and reviews? Click here now!
