San Marco Restaurant

Rating: 14
Author: Gault&Millau

Trg svetog Stjepana 5, 21450 Hvar, Island of Hvar, Croatia

14/20
Chef's Restaurant

Cooking: Mediterranean | Modern

Gault&Millau's review 2026

Hotel Palace Elisabeth, located in the heart of Hvar alongside the lively Pjaca, is one of the most striking architectural landmarks on the Adriatic. This stone lady of Hvar bears the marks of Venetian and Austrian influence, evident in its elegant interiors that subtly reflect the building’s rich history. A standout feature of the hotel is the San Marco restaurant, set on a recessed terrace above the historic Loggia. According to legend, the terrace was personally designed by Empress Elisabeth so she could enjoy uninterrupted views of the town and the Pakleni Islands. The restaurant’s menu is tailored to different times of day. At lunch, guests can opt for lighter dishes such as salads and pasta, while the evening menu offers a broader selection of starters and main courses, including tuna tartare, baked scallops, grilled octopus, Adriatic sea bass, lamb chops, and veal osso buco, along with several meat dishes. While the service and ambiance are impeccable, the menu occasionally emphasizes international dishes, which can somewhat overshadow the local culinary identity that could be even more pronounced in such a historic setting. The wine list offers a journey through Croatian viticulture, with a particular focus on Hvar’s indigenous varieties. Highlights include wines from Tonči Marijan, created exclusively for the hotel, alongside a wide range of labels from Hvar and across Croatia. The selection is completed with fine international wines and premium French champagnes.