Locanda il Giardino in Stari Grad on Hvar – Authentic Italian Cuisine, Homemade Pasta, and a Romantic Garden
Locanda il Giardino is an Italian restaurant located by the waterfront in the historic center of Stari Grad on the island of Hvar. It is known for its authentic Southern Italian cuisine, homemade pasta, pizzas, freshly prepared focaccia, and gelato made according to Italian tradition. Although the entrance is situated along the lively town waterfront, the restaurant features a pleasant garden area where guests can enjoy lunch or dinner away from the busiest crowds.
Unlike traditional Dalmatian taverns, Locanda il Giardino offers a different gastronomic experience in Stari Grad. The menu prominently reflects the influence of Southern Italian cuisine, particularly from the Apulia region, known for its quality pasta, focaccia, olive oil, and simple dishes prepared with carefully selected ingredients.
Italian Cuisine with a Focus on Homemade Preparation
The restaurant's offerings are based on recognizable Italian dishes, ranging from pasta and pizza to fish and meat specialties.
Particular attention is drawn to homemade ravioli, lasagna, and pasta with various sauces. Among the interesting choices are carbonara and cacio e pepe, traditional Italian dishes where the quality of ingredients and preparation method determine the final flavor.
The menu also includes fish dishes, tuna, octopus, and combinations of pasta with seafood. This variety makes the restaurant a good choice for guests seeking a classic Italian dinner as well as those who prefer Mediterranean flavors.
An important part of the cuisine includes fresh herbs and aromatic ingredients, which are used in the preparation of many dishes.
Pizzas, Focaccia, and Italian Specialties
Pizza is one of the standout offerings at Locanda il Giardino.
Prepared in the Italian style, with an emphasis on dough and quality ingredients, it provides guests with an option for a simpler lunch or a relaxed dinner.
It is also worth trying the homemade focaccia, a traditional Italian bread with olive oil, which can be served as a starter or alongside appetizers. Focaccia is one of the specialties that well represents the culinary connection between Southern Italy and the Mediterranean.
For starters, interesting plates with cheeses and cured meats are available, while pasta lovers can choose ravioli or other daily specials.
Homemade Italian Gelato and Tiramisu
One of the main highlights of Locanda il Giardino is its homemade Italian gelato.
The gelato can also be purchased while strolling along the waterfront, without the need for a full meal at the restaurant. Among the interesting flavors are pistachio, hazelnut, coffee, and fruit combinations, with the selection subject to change.
The uniqueness of Italian gelato lies in its creamy texture and pronounced flavor of individual ingredients. Therefore, Locanda il Giardino is appealing to guests looking for good gelato while exploring Stari Grad.
For dessert after lunch or dinner, it is worth choosing tiramisu, one of the most famous Italian desserts. Cannoli, traditional Sicilian pastries with creamy filling, are also available.
A Hidden Garden in the Heart of Stari Grad
The name Il Giardino, which means "the garden" in Italian, aptly describes one of the restaurant's main attractions.
Behind the part facing the town waterfront lies a cozy inner garden, or courtyard terrace surrounded by greenery. Herbs, Mediterranean decor details, and evening lighting create a warm, relaxed atmosphere.
The garden area is particularly pleasant during summer evenings, providing a quieter ambiance than tables directly by the coast. It is a nice choice for couples, as well as for families or smaller groups who wish to enjoy dinner at a leisurely pace.
On the other hand, the location by the waterfront allows for a quick break for gelato, coffee, or drinks during a walk around the town.
Italian Wines and Beverages
Guests can choose wines that complement Italian and Mediterranean cuisine.
White wines pair particularly well with fish and seafood pasta, while red wines can be combined with richer meat dishes and cheeses.
For a relaxed drink during warm days, Aperol Spritz is popular, and after a meal, a good choice is espresso with homemade tiramisu or gelato.
Thus, Locanda il Giardino is not only interesting for lunch or dinner but also for a brief stop during a stay in Stari Grad.
How to Reach Locanda il Giardino?
The restaurant is located on the waterfront of Stari Grad, in the eastern part of the historic center.
The easiest way to reach it from the town center is on foot, following the coast and the various dining establishments along the harbor. The location is also convenient for guests arriving by boat, as the restaurant is situated along the coastal promenade.
It is just a few minutes' walk from well-known landmarks such as St. Stephen's Square and the Tvrdalj of Petar Hektorović.
For those coming from Jelsa, Vrboska, or other places on the island of Hvar, it is possible to use a car and then continue on foot to the waterfront.
Parking Near the Restaurant
Locanda il Giardino is located in a pedestrian area along the town waterfront, so parking directly next to the restaurant is not practical.
The simplest option is to use one of the public parking lots in Stari Grad and then walk to the coast.
During July and August, it is advisable to plan for some extra time for parking, especially if coming for dinner.
For guests staying in the historic center, a car is not necessary, as the restaurant is easily accessible on foot.
Reservations and Useful Tips
For dinner in the garden area of the restaurant, it is recommended to reserve a table in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.
When making a reservation, you can specify that you would like to sit in the garden, as the ambiance differs from the area facing the waterfront.
If you are interested in a specific type of homemade pasta or fish specialty, it is worth checking the daily offerings. The menu may change depending on the season and availability of ingredients.
For visitors who only want gelato or coffee, the area by the waterfront is particularly practical during a walk around the town.
What to Visit Nearby?
Locanda il Giardino is excellently positioned for exploring the main attractions of Stari Grad.
It is close to Tvrdalj of Petar Hektorović, a Renaissance summer residence with a well-known fish pond, and a walk through the stone streets leads to St. Stephen's Square with the church of the same name.
It is particularly worth visiting Škor Square, one of the most beautiful historical settings in Stari Grad, as well as the Stari Grad Museum.
After lunch or dinner, one can stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the view of the boats and Stari Grad Bay.
Why Visit Locanda il Giardino?
Locanda il Giardino is an interesting choice for guests who want to taste authentic Italian cuisine in Stari Grad, with a special emphasis on homemade pasta, pizzas, and traditional desserts.
Its main advantages are the cozy hidden garden, the location by the town waterfront, and the homemade Italian gelato, making it worth a visit even if you do not plan a full meal.
For a romantic dinner, a family lunch, or gelato during a walk around the town, Locanda il Giardino brings a small part of Italian culinary tradition to the historic center of Stari Grad on Hvar.
Useful Information
- Name: Locanda il Giardino.
- Location: Town waterfront, historic center of Stari Grad, island of Hvar.
- Cuisine Type: Italian and Southern Italian, with Mediterranean dishes.
- Specialties: Homemade ravioli, carbonara, cacio e pepe, pizzas, focaccia, tuna, and other fish dishes.
- Desserts: Homemade Italian gelato, tiramisu, and cannoli.
- Highlight: Hidden garden with a pleasant terrace and herbs.
- Seating: By the waterfront and in the inner garden area.
- Vegetarian Options: Available.
- Beverages: Wines, cocktails, coffee, and soft drinks.
- Takeaway Food: Available for certain items.
- Reservations: Recommended for dinner during the summer season.
- Family Friendly: Yes.
- Parking: Public parking in Stari Grad, then walk to the waterfront.
- Access: Easily on foot from the historic center or town harbor.
- Nearby: Tvrdalj of Petar Hektorović, St. Stephen's Square, Škor Square, and the town waterfront.
- Recommended for: Lovers of Italian cuisine, couples, families, and guests seeking homemade gelato or dinner in the garden.
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