Cube studio by the river (with free bike rental)

A few steps from Ljubljana’s historic centre, in an intimate and informal setting much frequented at lunchtime for working breaks, this small restaurant surprises with the intensity of its flavours. The cuisine is contemporary and well-executed: while rooted in carefully selected local ingredients, it opens to international influences in a creative and personal approach. One may choose between the à la carte menu or tasting menus of five to nine courses. The pairing proposal is also of interest, encompassing organic wines, craft beers and the house’s own drinks.

The most scenic way to reach Ljubljana castle, which overlooks the city from the top of a hill, is by funicular – or by foot, if you like walking uphill. However you choose to get here, you’ll find this restaurant in the castle’s spacious inner courtyard, where it serves excellent local cuisine. Among the dishes that we enjoyed most, our favourite was the veal and curly kale – a superb fillet of veal served with the perfect accompaniment of curly kale and a fragrant mushroom cream.

In the heart of Ljubljana, tucked away on Nazorjeva Street, AFTR is a contemporary bistrot that enlivens the city scene with a lively evening atmosphere of music and mixology. The modern, colourful interiors are complemented by a pleasant terrace, more intimate than those along the riverfront. The kitchen unites Mediterranean and global influences in fresh and well-balanced dishes designed for sharing. In place of the traditional structure, the menu is divided into cold dishes, hot dishes and desserts. A modest wine selection, though many labels are available by the glass.

Just a few steps from the iconic Triple Bridge over the Ljubljanica River, you can choose between a dining room with a classic vaulted ceiling or, on milder days, a charming outdoor space surrounded by greenery, offering views of the castle. The menu stays true to tradition, featuring a wide selection of Slovenian meats − primarily grilled − along with fresh Adriatic fish and homemade pasta.

Situated in the heart of the pedestrian area at the foot of the street leading up to the castle, this restaurant has two entrances: one from the street and the other overlooking the river promenade, where a few tables have been laid out, creating an ideal setting for a relaxing summer meal. The internationally inspired cuisine is at its best in the first courses and the grilled options, with an open grill visible in the middle of the dining room. The specialities here include ribeye, fillets, fish of the day and scampi, all of which are accompanied by lightly sautéed, crispy seasonal vegetable

In the heart of Ljubljana, within the delightful AS Boutique Hotel, this establishment bearing the name of celebrated multi-starred chef Ana Roš presents itself as a contemporary, young and lively bistrot with a dynamic cuisine full of personality. The dishes move between Mediterranean suggestions and Italian echoes, as in the Adriatic white fish ceviche with fermented cabbage, pomegranate, sweet potato and puffed buckwheat, or the indulgent focacce filled with oyster mayonnaise, sardines, tomato salad and basil. All of this is accompanied by a sound wine selection, also available by the glass

This restaurant’s excellent location is best appreciated in summer, with tables overlooking the river and charming views of the castle lit up at night. The dining room, personally designed by the chef with taste and sensitivity, is also attractive, boasting muted tones and an elegant and intimate ambience inspired by the early 20C. The cuisine is Mediterranean in style, with a focus on fish and seafood – the shellfish are excellent, as is the delicious grilled sea bass with buttered mashed potatoes. One of the house specialities (which must be booked in advance) is the lamb cooked in the wood-