In the heart of one of the most beautiful natural pearls of Croatia, the Plitvice Lakes National Park, lies the Black River Steak & Pasta House restaurant – a place that combines top-notch gastronomy, modern design and a unique natural setting. Whether you are a passionate gourmet, a nature lover or a traveler in search of special experiences, Black River will win you over at first sight.
A modern restaurant in the heart of nature
Located right next to Entrance 2 to Plitvice Lakes National Park, the Black River restaurant represents the perfect combination of nature, comfort and top-notch gastronomic offerings. Its proximity to the entrance and nearby parking make it easily accessible to anyone arriving by car, while the restaurant’s ambiance provides an ideal place to take a break. Whether you’ve just arrived, are coming from a tour of the national park, or are simply looking for the perfect place to end the day.
The contemporary facility is harmoniously integrated into the untouched nature that surrounds it, and the elegant architecture and refined interior exude modern minimalism in warm, darker tones. This combination creates a cozy lounge atmosphere, ideal for relaxation. The interior is further complemented by carefully selected materials, natural motifs, and lighting that discreetly emphasizes the rustic wooden beams. The space is designed with an emphasis on comfort and discretion, providing guests with a peaceful ambiance in which they can enjoy the view through the windows of the greenery surrounding the restaurant, while natural light further emphasizes the warmth of the interior. For those who love to be outdoors, the spacious terrace offers a meal in the fresh air with a relaxing view of nature. Whether you come alone, with family or friends, Black River offers moments of peace, enjoyment and connection with nature – just what you are looking for after a day spent in one of the most beautiful national parks in Europe.
A wide selection of steaks and pasta dishes
The Black River restaurant’s menu is carefully designed for true lovers of fine dining. The restaurant’s main trump card is its steaks – selected premium cuts of meat that are aged for up to 55 days in its own dry-aged chambers. The menu features classics such as Porterhouse, T-bone, Rib-eye steak, Rumpsteak and Chateaubriand Cut Beefsteak – each of them a real challenge for the palate, prepared with the utmost care and passion for meat. But Black River is not just a paradise for meat lovers – its pasta menu is equally impressive. The handmade fresh pasta comes in seven different formats, while it is paired with ten rich and varied sauces, from classic Italian to original creations inspired by French, Spanish and Greek cuisine.
Among the more popular sauces is the one with wild mushrooms and leeks and the Mediterranean ratatouille, which are especially loved by guests who prefer vegetarian options. For example, one of the signature dishes is Beefsteak Chateaubriand Cut served with creamy sweet potato puree and black pepper sauce, while pasta lovers will be delighted by tagliatelle with mushroom and white wine sauce, complemented by fried almond flakes.
A place to relax after exploring the natural beauty
Whether you’re just beginning to explore Plitvice Lakes or finishing your visit, Black River Steak & Pasta House is the ideal spot to relax and enjoy exceptional cuisine. Located next to Entrance 2, it’s easily accessible even for those not touring the park but seeking a quality meal in a unique setting. The spacious terrace surrounded by greenery offers beautiful nature views, while the warm, elegant interior provides a cozy atmosphere. Whether for a romantic dinner, a casual meet-up, or a quiet moment of enjoyment, Black River delivers. The menu is paired with a rich selection of domestic and international wines, especially from Mediterranean regions, available by the glass to suit your taste. Beer lovers can enjoy local Velebit black and white beers on tap, and the open bar serves creative cocktails, from classics to signature creations. Every detail is designed to offer an authentic eno-gastronomic experience blending excellent food, drinks, and ambiance.
Everything you need to plan your trip in 2025
Comfortable accommodation close to restaurants
To make your stay in Plitvice Lakes National Park even more enjoyable, the ideal accommodation choice is located just a five-minute easy walk from the Black River Steak & Pasta House restaurant – Hotel Jezero. A quiet forest path surrounded by greenery leads to the hotel, perfect for relaxing after a meal or sightseeing. The proximity of the restaurant and Entrance 2 itself makes this accommodation extremely practical for those who want to stay in the immediate vicinity of the park.
Hotel Jezero is located right next to the lake, in the heart of the Park, and is one of the most frequently chosen options for guests looking for simple and functional accommodation. The rooms are comfortable, clean and equipped with everything necessary for a relaxing stay, and the natural surroundings in which the hotel is located further contribute to the feeling of peace and connection with the environment. Guests come here for the convenience, proximity to all amenities and the serene atmosphere that surrounds them. After a day of hiking and exploring waterfalls and lakes, many guests happily return to the hotel for a rest, before heading to the Black River restaurant, where a completely different dimension of experience awaits them – a gastronomic experience that combines rich flavors and an impressive ambiance. The restaurant’s accessibility to hotel guests is an additional advantage – for dinner, a glass of wine or dessert, it only takes a few minutes to walk. For those who want to spend several days in this unique part of Croatia, the combination of accommodation at Hotel Jezero and the superb cuisine of the Black River restaurant represents the ideal blend of simplicity, comfort and pleasure. Enjoying nature, along with relaxation and good food, is what makes a visit to this area complete.
Why Black River should be on your gastronomic map
Recognition of quality comes not only from guests, but also from experts, and Black River Steak & Pasta House was included in the prestigious international gastronomic guide Gault&Millau Croatia in 2025. This is an exceptional recognition in the world of haute gastronomy, because Gault&Millau is known for its strict criteria and independent evaluation of restaurants.
The guide brings together only the best restaurants, both in Croatia and around the world, and Black River’s inclusion among them definitely confirms that it is one of the top gastronomic destinations in Croatia. This recognition did not come by chance. In addition to the exceptional quality of the food, the restaurant’s dedicated, passionate and talented staff is also responsible – from chefs, waiters, sommeliers to management. Each member of the team shares the same passion for quality, hospitality and innovation. With high standards of cuisine, carefully selected ingredients and constant improvement, Black River is a place that offers much more than just an ordinary meal and should not be missed by all lovers of top gastronomy.
Black River Steak & Pasta House is not just a restaurant – it is a place where nature, architecture and gastronomy meet in a unique harmony. Every detail, from the choice of ingredients to the presentation of the dishes, from the interior design to the level of service, speaks of one mission – to provide guests with an unforgettable experience. Regardless of whether you come after a walk in the Park, whether you are planning a romantic date, a business lunch or a celebration in a special setting, Black River is a place that will exceed your expectations. Thanks to its prime location, professional team and continuous pursuit of excellence, this restaurant rightly deserves a place on every gastronomic map.
We look forward to your arrival – let Black River become your favorite place in the heart of the Plitvice Lakes…
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