Proto Fish Restaurant

Proto Fish Restaurant is one of the oldest fish restaurants in Dubrovnik, Croatia, open since 1886 at Siroka 1, on a lane off Stradun in the Old Town. The cuisine is seafood within a Mediterranean frame, built on the day's catch and on shellfish from Mali Ston Bay in the Dubrovnik-Neretva region, which is known for its oysters and mussels. Lobster, Mali Ston shellfish and the daily catch are the dishes most associated with the kitchen, and fresh fish is sold by weight, so the final bill depends on the choice at the table. A typical meal costs about EUR 40 to 80 (approx USD 46-92) per person. The restaurant belongs to the Esculap group, and its long history gives it an established, traditional character. The dining room is smart but not stiff, with a mix of locals marking occasions and visitors seeking a well-known seafood address; the mood is lively at peak hours, particularly in summer, when the lane outside is busy. A large wine list supports the menu, with Croatian whites suited to shellfish and fish. Hours are generally daily from about 11AM to 11PM, though listings range from 10AM to 11PM, so a quick check before visiting is useful. Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner in summer and for window or terrace-side tables. Bookings can be made on +385 20 323 234 or through the booking link on the restaurant's website. Booking a few days ahead is usually enough outside July and August, and earlier is wise in peak season. The central location makes it easy to combine with a walk along Stradun or the Old Town walls. Because fresh fish is priced by weight, visitors often ask the staff to show the day's catch and confirm the weight and price before ordering, which avoids surprises on the bill. Shellfish availability depends on the season and the catch.