Restaurant Alavia Hvar – Creative Mediterranean Cuisine and Panoramic View Above Velo Grablje

Alavia Hvar Restaurant – Soul Food is located on a hill above Velo Grablje, a historic lavender village in the interior of Hvar Island. This restaurant and cocktail bar is particularly noted for its panoramic view of the island landscape, tranquil setting away from coastal crowds, and modern approach to traditional Dalmatian cuisine. The menu features Hvar's gregada, octopus under peka, fresh Adriatic fish, and creative dishes that present familiar Mediterranean ingredients in a different way.

Unlike classic konobas in old stone villages, Alavia offers a more elegant dining experience. The restaurant is situated along the road above Velo Grablje, surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation, and its terrace provides a wide view towards the interior of the island, Brač, and the Dalmatian coast. It is particularly appealing to guests who wish to spend a few hours enjoying a quality lunch or dinner, good wine, and exploring the quieter side of Hvar.

Gregada, Octopus, and Adriatic Fish in a Modern Way

Fish and seafood hold an important place in the kitchen of Alavia, but they are not always prepared in the traditional manner typical of Dalmatian konobas.

One of the most interesting dishes is Hvar's gregada, made from monkfish, grouper, mussels, and shrimp. This well-known island specialty is based on the simple preparation of fish and seafood, but at Alavia it receives a richer combination of flavors.

Octopus lovers will find the grilled octopus particularly interesting, served with ratatouille, candied citrus, and a citrus sauce. This combination well illustrates the character of the restaurant: a well-known Adriatic ingredient is paired with more creative sides.

The menu also includes grouper, served with Swiss chard, spring onions, and pesto. This is an interesting choice for guests who want quality fish but not necessarily the classic whole fish grilled.

Black Risotto, Alavia Buzara, and Creative Starters

Starters are an important part of the gastronomic experience at Alavia.

Black cuttlefish risotto is one of the recognizable Dalmatian dishes on the menu. Its characteristic flavor and dark color come from cuttlefish ink, making it a good choice for lovers of pronounced seafood flavors.

Particularly interesting is Alavia Buzara, which combines mussels, clams, and homemade sausage in a sauce of garlic, parsley, olive oil, and white wine. The combination of shellfish and meat sets this dish apart from the classic Dalmatian buzara.

For a shared start to the meal, one can choose the Alavia Tapas Plate, which includes cheese, prosciutto, Adriatic tuna tartare, tuna pâté, carpaccio, olives, and roasted peppers.

Among the more unusual starters are a cold soup of cucumber and yogurt with mango and grapefruit, and bruschetta with beef tongue, crème fraîche, and chimichurri sauce.

This selection will particularly appeal to guests who enjoy trying new combinations rather than just ordering familiar grilled dishes.

Veal and Octopus Under Peka

Alavia also offers traditional dishes under peka, which are especially interesting for guests seeking an authentic Dalmatian meal.

Veal under peka is prepared with potatoes and onions, while octopus under peka is available for seafood enthusiasts. In both cases, the ingredients are slowly baked under a lid covered with embers, allowing them to gradually soften and meld their flavors.

Peka is prepared by prior order, for at least two portions, so it is necessary to arrange this when making a reservation.

There is also roasted piglet available, also by prior arrangement.

The option to choose between traditional peka and modern fish dishes is one of the more interesting features of Alavia.

Meat Dishes and Vegetarian Options

The restaurant is not only for fish lovers. The menu features several interesting meat specialties.

Slow-cooked beef cheeks are served with a sweet and sour sauce and pasta, while oxtail is prepared through long cooking, then finished with a crispy crust and served with potatoes and meat sauce.

For steak lovers, ribeye with roasted vegetables is available, and among other dishes are lamb chops with white bean purée and marinated chicken with cauliflower, romesco sauce, and pistachios.

Vegetarians will find interesting options such as eggplant with tomatoes and cheese, burrata with seasonal vegetables, and various pasta dishes.

Due to this offering, Alavia is a good choice for couples and groups with different dietary preferences.

Desserts with Lavender and Mediterranean Flavors

Desserts at Alavia continue the same gastronomic approach as the main dishes.

Notably, 1001 Nights, a dessert inspired by almond baklava, is served with a lemon and mint drizzle and lavender ice cream.

Lavender is a particularly interesting ingredient here as the restaurant is located above Velo Grablje, a village whose history is closely tied to lavender cultivation and essential oil production.

Also available are chocolate cake with chocolate ice cream and poached pear in white wine, served with white chocolate and a crispy addition.

For guests who prefer to end their meal with savory flavors, a cheese platter is also available.

Cocktails and Croatian Wines with a Panoramic View

Alavia is not just a restaurant but also a cocktail bar, making it interesting for guests who wish to enjoy a drink and the view of the surrounding landscape.

Among the special cocktails is Alavia Spritz, a combination of sparkling wine, lemon, and lavender syrup. Lavender here connects the restaurant's offerings with the tradition of Velo Grablje.

Citrus Lady, a cocktail with gin, maraschino, lemon, and aromatic additions, is also available.

The wine list includes Croatian wines, including varieties characteristic of Hvar Island, such as bogdanuša, pošip, and plavac mali.

For a special experience, it is worth arriving a bit earlier than the planned lunch or dinner, sitting on the terrace, and enjoying the view with a glass of wine or a cocktail.

Panoramic Terrace Above Velo Grablje

The location of Alavia is one of its greatest advantages.

It is situated on a hill above the village, along the old road that connects the area of Hvar town with the interior of the island. The terrace is surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation, and the view opens over hills, stone terraces, and the surrounding island landscape.

On clear days, Brač and the Dalmatian mainland can be seen in the distance.

The outdoor space is arranged for relaxed dining, while the interior provides a more intimate atmosphere. The restaurant is not large, contributing to a calmer ambiance and a more personal approach to service.

Alavia is particularly interesting for a romantic dinner, a celebration of a special occasion, or a long lunch while exploring the interior of Hvar.

It is advisable to reserve tables on the terrace in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.

How to Reach Alavia Hvar Restaurant?

Alavia is located above Velo Grablje, east of the historic center of the village.

From Hvar town, it can be reached by car via the road through the interior of the island, and the drive usually takes about twenty minutes, depending on the chosen route.

The restaurant is located along the road on a hill, so there is no need to navigate the narrow streets of the historic core of Velo Grablje.

Approaching the restaurant, one should expect curves and sections of the road that are narrower than the main island roads. During the evening return, it is advisable to drive carefully as some sections pass through sparsely populated areas.

For guests who do not wish to drive, organized taxi transport is available. The restaurant has a contact for a transport provider it collaborates with, which is convenient for visitors from Hvar town who wish to enjoy dinner with wine.

Walking from Velo Grablje itself is possible, but one should account for the uphill walk to the restaurant and the return along the road. For guests staying on the coast, a car or taxi is more practical.

Parking at Alavia Restaurant

Arriving by car is quite practical as the restaurant offers free parking for guests.

Since it is located outside the dense village core, parking is easier than at restaurants among the narrow stone streets of Velo Grablje.

However, during the peak season and evening hours, it is advisable to check the availability of spaces, especially if a larger group is coming.

For guests planning to sample more wines or cocktails, it is better to arrange taxi transport in advance.

What to Visit Near Alavia?

A visit to Alavia can be combined with a tour of Velo Grablje, one of the most interesting historical villages on Hvar Island.

The village is known for its traditional lavender and rosemary oil production, stone houses, dry stone walls, and agricultural terraces that testify to the former life in the island's interior.

In the center of the village is the Church of St. Cosmas and Damian, an important sacred landmark and a recognizable part of the village landscape.

It is particularly interesting to visit in early summer when lavender blooms in the area and when the Lavender Festival, the most famous event in Velo Grablje, takes place.

To the west lies Malo Grablje, an almost abandoned stone village with narrow passages, old houses, and the Church of St. Theodore. Touring these two villages provides an interesting insight into the history of Hvar's interior.

For visitors who wish to explore more than Hvar's beaches, the combination of Velo Grablje, Malo Grablje, and lunch or dinner at Alavia is an excellent plan for a few hours.

Who is Alavia Hvar Restaurant Recommended For?

Alavia is particularly suitable for guests seeking a gastronomic experience in a peaceful and attractive setting, away from coastal tourist centers.

Fish dish enthusiasts will find gregada, grouper, octopus, and black risotto interesting, while those who prefer meat will discover slow-cooked beef specialties, steaks, and traditional peka.

Couples may appreciate the intimate atmosphere and panoramic terrace, while groups can enjoy the option of sampling various starters, Croatian wines, and signature cocktails.

Alavia belongs to a higher price range than simple village konobas. The emphasis is not on a quick meal but on carefully prepared food, a selection of drinks, and the overall experience.

The restaurant's greatest uniqueness is the combination of creative Mediterranean cuisine and its location high above Velo Grablje. Because of this view and unusual gastronomic approach, Alavia is an interesting destination in itself, not just a stop during an outing.

Useful Information

• Location: Above Velo Grablje, on Hvar Island.
• Type of establishment: Mediterranean restaurant and cocktail bar.
• Specialty: Panoramic terrace with a view of the island landscape, Brač, and the Dalmatian coast.
• Fish specialties: Gregada, grouper, grilled octopus, and black risotto.
• Special starters: Alavia Buzara with shellfish and homemade sausage, tuna tartare, and carpaccio.
• Dishes under peka: Veal and octopus, with prior order for at least two people.
• Meat dishes: Beef cheeks, oxtail, ribeye, lamb chops, and marinated chicken.
• Vegetarian options: Eggplant, burrata with vegetables, and pasta dishes.
• Desserts: Almond baklava with lavender ice cream, chocolate cake, and poached pear.
• Cocktails: Alavia Spritz, Citrus Lady, and other cocktails.
• Wines: Selection of Croatian wines, including Hvar varieties.
• Terrace: Outdoor space for dining and relaxing with a panoramic view.
• Access by car: Via the road through the interior of the island, with a turnoff towards Velo Grablje.
• Parking: Free parking for guests.
• Taxi arrival: Possible with prior arrangement for transport.
• Reservations: Recommended, especially for dinner and terrace tables.
• Price range: Higher than classic village konobas.
• Nearby: Velo Grablje, Church of St. Cosmas and Damian, lavender fields, and Malo Grablje.
• Recommended for: Romantic dinners, special occasions, lovers of creative cuisine, and panoramic views.