Konoba Dubrava

Konoba Dubrava is a traditional tavern in the village of Bosanka on the Mount Srd plateau, behind the cable car summit above Dubrovnik, in Croatia's Dubrovnik-Neretva region. Unlike the Old Town restaurants, it sits on the hilltop, and visitors normally reach it by car or taxi, which makes it a destination meal rather than a casual stop. The kitchen specialises in Dalmatian grills and peka, the traditional method of baking meat, octopus or vegetables under an iron bell covered in hot embers. Peka is the emblematic dish here, and it takes at least three hours to cook, so it must be ordered in advance by phone on +385 95 420 4000. The result is tender, smoky meat or octopus with potatoes cooked in the juices, and it is the main reason to make the trip. The dining room is a rustic tavern interior with a terrace, with a rural, family-style atmosphere, casual dress and low noise compared with the city. Parking is available, which is a practical advantage over the car-free Old Town. The terrace gives cooler air than the coast in summer, and tables are relaxed and unhurried. The drinks list highlights local wines, and house wine by the carafe is a typical choice with peka. Prices are mid-range, about EUR 35-60 per person for two courses and a glass of wine, with peka usually priced for sharing. Hours run from about 11AM to midnight daily, but the tavern is closed on Mondays. Because peka needs advance notice and the venue is outside the city, reservations are strongly advised, particularly for groups, and should be made at least several hours ahead, ideally the day before. Visitors without a car should arrange a taxi return in advance, since evening transport from Bosanka is limited.