One of my favourite things about visiting a new country is discovering its traditional dishes, and Slovenia didn’t disappoint. I had heard Slovenian food is hearty and comforting, and, as I was visiting in winter, it was exactly what I needed to warm up after a day of exploring Ljubljana.
I hadn’t tried Slovenian food before visiting, so I was excited for this new experience. The mix of cozy, homemade flavours made the experience even more memorable, and I even found a favourite dish, Štruklji, a traditional Slovenian dumpling filled with everything from cottage cheese to walnuts. Still dreaming about it!
So, if you’re headed to Ljubljana, here’s a guide to the dishes you need to try, along with the best food tours and traditional restaurants to make the most of your time in Slovenia’s food scene!
⏰ Short on time?
👉 Day Trips you Can’t Miss
– Lake Bled
– Postojna Cave & Predjama Castle
– Škocjan Caves
– Piran
👉 Top Sights in Ljubljana
– Ljubljana Castle
– Triple Bridge
– Ljubljana Old Town
– Dragon Bridge
👉 Where to Stay
– Hostel Celica Art (Budget)
– City Hotel Ljubljana (Mid-Range)
– Hotel Cubo (Luxury)
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Traditional Slovenian Foods to Try in Ljubljana
This dish is an absolute must if you’re visiting Slovenia. Štruklji are dumplings made with various fillings like cottage cheese, tarragon, apple, or walnuts. They’re usually rolled in dough and then steamed, boiled, or baked, creating a soft, comforting texture. I found it to be a delightful balance between savoury and sweet, perfect for those looking for a unique, traditional Slovenian dish.
Although originally from Lake Bled, Kremna Rezina, or Bled cream cake, is so loved that you’ll find it in restaurants throughout Ljubljana. This dessert has layers of flaky pastry, vanilla custard, and whipped cream. If you’re a fan of sweet treats, this is a dessert you can’t miss.
Kranjska Klobasa, also known as Carniolan sausage, is an iconic Slovenian food. Made from pork, bacon, garlic, and spices, it’s a simple yet flavorful sausage that pairs beautifully with mustard, sauerkraut, or bread. You’ll find it on menus across Ljubljana, and it’s a great snack to enjoy with a glass of local wine or beer.
Prekmurska Gibanica is a traditional Slovenian dessert from the Prekmurje region. It’s a layered cake made with poppy seeds, cottage cheese, apples, walnuts, and raisins. The combination of flavours and textures is unlike any other dessert I’ve tried, it’s rich, flavorful, and feels like a special occasion treat.
Bograč is a hearty stew made from a mix of meats, including beef, pork, and venison, and is packed with potatoes, onions, and paprika. It’s the kind of dish that feels perfect for a cold winter day and one of the most comforting Slovenian foods you can try.
Where to Stay in Ljubljana
🏨 Budget – Hostel Tresor
🏨 Mid-Range – City Hotel Ljubljana
🏨 Luxury – InterContinental Ljubljana
Where did I Stayed in Ljubljana
👉 Watch our hotel review staying at ibis Styles in Ljubljana.
Foodie Experiences in Ljubljana
In addition to enjoying these delicious dishes, Ljubljana has a few fantastic food tours that allow you to dive deeper into the local food scene. Here are a few experiences I highly recommend.
This tour takes you through Ljubljana’s Old Town, introducing you to traditional Slovenian foods, local wines, and pastries. It’s led by a knowledgeable guide who shares insights into the ingredients and traditions behind each dish. This tour was the perfect way to sample a variety of foods and drinks in one afternoon.
Short on time? This three hour tour takes you on a quick but fulfilling journey through Slovenian cuisine, offering samples of various dishes while also teaching you about the country’s food culture. It’s ideal if you want a more focused culinary experience in a short time frame.
For a sit-down meal, Gostilna Sokol in Ljubljana’s Old Town is a must. This traditional Slovenian restaurant offers a cozy, rustic setting and serves dishes like Kranjska Klobasa and Štruklji. It’s one of the best places to immerse yourself in Slovenian food and ambience.
FAQ in Ljubljana
One of the most iconic dishes you’ll find in Ljubljana is Štruklji, a traditional Slovenian dumpling with various sweet or savoury fillings. It’s comforting, flavorful, and a must-try.
Slovenian street food includes sausages like Kranjska Klobasa and savoury pastries. You’ll often find food stalls offering these quick bites in Ljubljana’s Old Town.
Breakfast in Slovenia is usually light, featuring bread, cheese, yogurt, and meats. Some may also have pastries or seasonal fruits.
Slovenia is known for dishes like Štruklji, Kranjska Klobasa, and Bled cream cake. Each region has unique specialties, so there’s a wide variety to explore.
Gostilna Sokol in Old Town is a top choice, offering a range of traditional dishes in a cozy setting. It’s perfect for those looking for authentic Slovenian cuisine.
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