Restaurant Stari Grad

About the Restaurant

Restaurant Stari Grad is located in the Veruda district of Pula, on Sisplac Street above a local supermarket and close to a busy crossroads. It is slightly away from the historic centre, in a more residential part of town, which gives it a local, everyday feel rather than a typical tourist hotspot.

The restaurant is rooted in a long-standing family tradition, with a strong connection to classic Istrian recipes and the region’s fishing heritage. The inside space is rustic and unpretentious, with wooden details and a warm fireplace for cooler evenings, while the outdoor terrace offers extra seating for warmer days.

Stari Grad is popular with both locals and visitors who are looking for honest food, generous portions and fair prices. It is one of the places in Pula that stays open all year, so it works just as well for a relaxed winter lunch as for a summer dinner after a day at the beach.

Food & What to Expect

The kitchen at Restaurant Stari Grad focuses on traditional Istrian and Mediterranean flavours, with a particular emphasis on fish and seafood. Guests can expect classic starters such as scallops, seafood salads and simple dishes that showcase fresh Adriatic ingredients. Pasta is an important part of the menu, with homemade fuži, gnocchi and ravioli appearing in various combinations, often with truffles, seafood or rich Istrian sauces.

Seafood lovers will find plenty of choice, from grilled fish and cuttlefish ink risotto to squid prepared in several different ways. Adriatic squid is considered a house speciality when in season, especially from November to the end of January, when local catch is most available and prized for its flavour. There is also a well-known mixed squid platter where grilled, stuffed and fried squid are served together with classic side dishes such as polenta, Swiss chard or fries.

Besides seafood, the menu usually offers meat dishes from the grill and a selection of simple, hearty plates suited to a casual family lunch. Portions tend to be generous, and the overall price level is moderate, making it possible to enjoy a full meal with drinks without spending as much as in the most touristy parts of Pula.

There are options for guests who prefer pasta or lighter dishes, and the restaurant is suitable for families thanks to its kids’ menu and straightforward flavours. While the wine list is not extensive or highly sophisticated, it typically covers local Istrian wines, house wine by the glass and simple choices that pair well with seafood and grilled dishes.

Atmosphere & Who It’s For

The atmosphere at Restaurant Stari Grad is informal and relaxed, closer to a local canteen than a fine dining venue. Indoors, the rustic décor and fireplace create a cosy feel, especially in the colder months, while the outdoor terrace offers a simple, open-air setting above the supermarket for those who prefer to dine outside.

The location near a busy crossroads means that the surroundings can feel lively and sometimes a bit noisy, especially on the terrace where there can be traffic and groups of teenagers meeting nearby. Inside, the mood is warmer and more intimate, although it can still get busy at peak times when the restaurant fills with locals and visitors.

Stari Grad suits guests who care more about solid, traditional food and fair prices than about a picture-perfect view or polished, fine-dining service. It is well suited for families, groups of friends and seafood lovers looking for authentic Istrian flavours, rather than for those seeking a romantic, quiet setting. Dogs are not allowed, there is free parking nearby, and the relaxed style makes it easy to come in casual clothes after a day of exploring Pula.

Visit Pula Review

Restaurant Stari Grad is a straightforward, local-style place for Istrian and seafood dishes in the Veruda area of Pula. The menu focuses on classics such as squid, seafood risotto and homemade pasta, with portions that are generally satisfying and prices that remain moderate compared with many more central restaurants. During the visit, squid and seafood risotto were well prepared and enjoyable, though slightly on the salty side, fitting more into the category of honest everyday cooking than a memorable gastronomic experience.

The setting matches this impression. The outdoor terrace sits above a supermarket and looks onto a busy crossroads, so it is convenient but not especially charming in terms of view or atmosphere. Inside, the rustic dining room with its simple décor and fireplace feels more pleasant and cosy, particularly outside the summer heat. Service can vary in speed and warmth, but overall the restaurant works well as a solid option for a casual lunch or dinner when the priority is to eat reasonably priced seafood and local dishes rather than to find a “wow” setting or highly creative cuisine. With that in mind, Stari Grad remains a decent, good-value choice in Pula for guests who appreciate straightforward, traditional food.