Gostilna Sokol is a cellar tavern at Ciril-Metodov trg 18, in Ljubljana's Old Town beside the cathedral. The setting is a traditional gostilna: low ceilings, wooden benches and tables, and a rustic atmosphere that has made it a regular stop for visitors looking for hearty Slovenian food in the historic centre. The menu concentrates on the dishes of the Carniolan and wider Slovenian home kitchen. Signature items include ričet, a thick barley and bean stew often cooked with smoked pork; jota, the sauerkraut and bean soup typical of the Karst and Primorska areas; and Kranjska klobasa, the Carniolan sausage served with sides such as sauerkraut or roasted potatoes. Game and roasted meats appear alongside these, and dumplings and strudel fill the dessert section. The room is cosy rather than quiet; at lunch and early evening the noise level rises as groups share benches and conversation fills the cellar. There is no dress code, and the clientele ranges from families to couples and tour groups. The drinks offer is built around Slovenian wines poured by the glass or carafe, local beer and traditional spirits such as plum brandy. Mains cost about €12-22, placing the tavern in the mid-range for the Old Town. Daily opening is typical, generally from late morning until around 23:00, but hours should be checked before travelling. Reservations are advised for Friday and Saturday evenings and for tables of more than four; walk-ins are generally workable at weekday lunch. Its position next to the cathedral and the Central Market makes it convenient for a meal before or after a walk along the Ljubljanica river and a visit to the castle funicular, and the cellar offers a welcome contrast to terrace-heavy neighbouring streets in cold or wet weather.
| Price | Mains about €12-22 (~$13-24) |
|---|---|
| Hours | Daily, typically 11:00-23:00 (check before going) |
| Reservations | Reservations advised for Friday and Saturday evenings; walk-ins are generally possible at lunch on weekdays. Book through the venue's own website or by phone using the number shown on its Google Maps listing. |
| Address | Ciril-Metodov trg 18, 1000 Ljubljana |
Signature dishes
- Ričet
- Jota (sauerkraut and bean soup)
- Kranjska klobasa
Good to know
- Known for
- Cellar tavern with wooden benches and hearty Slovenian dishes
Location
Ciril-Metodov trg 18, 1000 Ljubljana
46.0503, 14.5075 View on map
Highlights
- Cellar tavern with wooden benches beside Ljubljana Cathedral
- Ričet, jota and Kranjska klobasa as core dishes
- Mid-range Old Town pricing with mains around €12-22
- Slovenian wine by the glass and traditional fruit brandies
Tips for visiting
- Book for Friday and Saturday evenings, especially for groups of more than four.
- Weekday lunch usually works without a booking and is the calmest time.
- Order the jota or ričet as a starter if sharing mains with the table.
- Combine with the Central Market and cathedral, both a short walk away.
When to visit
Weekday lunch for a quieter room, or a cold evening when the cellar and stews are at their best.
Accessibility
As a cellar tavern, the dining room may involve steps; wheelchair users should confirm access with the venue before visiting.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Gostilna Sokol?
At Ciril-Metodov trg 18 in the Old Town, next to Ljubljana Cathedral.
What are the signature dishes?
Ričet, jota and Kranjska klobasa are the dishes most associated with the tavern.
Is it expensive?
No, mains are about €12-22 (~$13-24), mid-range for the Old Town.
Is it good in winter?
Yes, the cellar setting and hearty soups and stews suit cold weather well.