‘Pape’, Restaurant and Pizzeria

Walking along the Jelsa waterfront along its northern promenade, you will reach the Pape restaurant located right by the sea. Tihana and Srđan Bunčuga, the owners, opened the restaurant in 2002 and named it ‘Pape’ in honour of Srđan’s grandfather.

At the beginning of their story, the happy couple wanted to translate everything they learned about the traditional Dalmatian cuisine into the delicious meals they serve to this day. They start their workday at 8 AM and offer numerous healthy breakfast options on the menu: smoothies, cereals, or pancakes – all the perfect choice to start your day right!

The owners envisioned this restaurant as one that changes from morning to evening. Lunch time in Dalmatia starts at noon and is the key meal of the day. Specialities like risotto or pasta with seafood are a true delicacy to have during the day.

You have probably already noticed the culture of drinking coffee in Dalmatia, so be sure to visit this place and treat yourself to an afternoon coffee with a sea view like a real Dalmatian. With a total of 60 seats, the restaurant is focused on preparing high quality local food with traditional and modern touches, nurturing and pairing food from the Jelsa area. For the youngest ones and those who love them, pizzas are also on offer.

Freshly caught Adriatic fish, prepared over charcoal embers from vines and holm oak and blended with the green gold of this area – olive oil – is a highlight of the local cuisine. As true lovers of good wine, the young Bunčuga family produces fine white and red wines, Bogdanuša and Plavac respectively, to complement your meal. The aperitif of choice in Dalmatia and on the island of Hvar is a good brandy, which is made from local fruits. ‘Pape’ offers a brandy in the colour of love – cherry brandy

For dessert rožata (a type of crême brulée) is recommended, the queen of Dalmatian desserts, soft and delicious, just as the end of the evening should be.