Fine dining & wine
Boškinac is one of the island’s best-known gastronomic addresses, pairing a creative interpretation of island cuisine with its own winery and the indigenous Gegić grape.
Boškinac · official local listing ↗OLEA LOCAL EDIT · DINING
Choose the kind of evening first — then choose the restaurant.
Restaurant lists change every season, so this guide is deliberately not a giant directory. Start with the experience you want: ambitious island cuisine, fresh fish by the sea, traditional tavern food or local products to take back to OLEA.
Traditional tavern & seafood
For a more relaxed evening, Stara Novalja and the wider island have taverns focused on fresh fish, octopus, shrimp, grilled meat and local wine. Porat is one official Visit Novalja example.
Tavern Porat · official local listing ↗Local products
If you want to taste the island without a full restaurant evening, look for Pag cheese, olive oil and small-batch local products. OPG Vidas is one long-established Novalja producer.
OPG Vidas · official local listing ↗Ask your host
The best choice can depend on the day, weather, group and whether you want a long dinner or something casual. Confirmed OLEA guests can simply ask Stjepan for the current recommendation.
My rule: do not choose only by rating. Decide whether you want a memorable tasting dinner, grilled fish by the water, a family-friendly table or a quick local bite — then pick the place.
This page is a curated starting point rather than a ranking. Restaurant concepts, opening dates and seasonal service can change.
Official sources & practical links
Travel times, opening hours, ferry schedules and restaurant availability can change. Always check the official source before travelling.
Updated 5 September 2026