Lari i Penati

Lari i Penati is a contemporary Croatian restaurant at Petrinjska ulica 42 in a Lower Town house in Zagreb, Croatia. The name refers to the household gods of ancient Roman belief, and the restaurant presents itself as a home-like setting for modern cooking. The cuisine is modern Croatian, built on a seasonal menu that changes with available produce, and a selection of Croatian wines is a defining feature of the offer. Because the menu rotates, there is no single dish that defines the kitchen; instead, diners choose from seasonal plates that reinterpret local ingredients in a lighter and more refined style than the traditional taverns of the Upper Town. The dining room sits in a Lower Town house, giving it a more private and residential feel than the busier restaurant strip. It is noticeably quieter than the tourist-oriented streets around Tkalciceva, with low to moderate noise levels, an attentive pace of service and a smart-casual dress norm. This makes it suitable for business dinners, couples and diners who want conversation. Croatian wines are the highlight of the beverage programme, and ordering by the glass or bottle from domestic regions such as Slavonia, Istria and Dalmatia is a good way to sample the country's range. Prices are upper mid-range for Zagreb: a typical meal costs about EUR 30-55 (approx USD 34-63), depending on the number of courses and wine. The restaurant is generally open Monday to Saturday from about noon to 11PM and closed on Sundays. Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner on Thursday to Saturday, and booking a few days ahead is usually enough. The Petrinjska location is a short walk from the main railway station area and from Ban Jelacic Square, which places it conveniently for visitors staying in the Lower Town. It is a good option for travellers who want a modern take on Croatian food away from the crowds.