Step Up Jelsa – Burgers, Pizza and Views of Jelsa Harbour

Step Up is located on the waterfront in Jelsa, but it is not a typical restaurant with a terrace at street level. Its uniqueness lies in the elevated space above the promenade, providing a wide view across the harbour, boats, and the centre of Jelsa.

The concept is relaxed, leaning more towards a bistro than a traditional Dalmatian tavern. The main offerings include burgers, pizza, kebabs, tortillas, and various finger food items, along with a sufficient selection of vegetarian options, local wines, beers, and cocktails, making Step Up suitable for lunch, dinner, or a drink later in the evening.

Terrace Above the Waterfront with Harbour Views

The location is one of the primary reasons Step Up stands out among the establishments in central Jelsa.

Instead of tables right next to passers-by on the waterfront, seating is slightly elevated above the promenade, with an open view towards Jelsa harbour. The boats, sea, and houses on the opposite side of the bay create a particularly pleasant atmosphere in the evening when the sun sets and the harbour begins to come alive with its evening rhythm.

Step Up is just a few minutes' walk from Pjaca and other parts of the town centre.

Burgers as a Signature Offering

Burgers hold a particularly important place on the menu.

There are several different varieties available, from classic meat options to vegetarian combinations, making Step Up a sensible choice when one desires a substantial meal without the formalities of a traditional restaurant.

A cold beer naturally pairs well with a burger, and this combination is one of the best ways to experience the character of this place – simple, relaxed, and without pretension.

Pizza for a Casual Dinner

Pizza is another significant part of the menu.

It is well-suited for families, groups, and anyone looking for something familiar and informal in the evening, without the need for a multi-course dinner.

Step Up thus easily becomes a compromise when one person wants a burger, another a pizza, and a third something lighter or vegetarian.

Zucchini with Mozzarella and Other Finger Food

The menu is not limited to just the classics.

One of the more distinctive dishes is zucchini with mozzarella, along with various small bites, bacon rolls, seasonal salads, tortillas, and similar dishes that can be ordered individually or shared at the table.

This finger food aspect gives Step Up a different character from a typical pizzeria or burger bar.

Kebabs, Tortillas and Wok

The menu also features kebabs, tortillas, and various combinations that step outside the classic Mediterranean restaurant framework.

This is useful for guests who have already eaten fish, pizza, or traditional Dalmatian dishes several times during their holiday and wish to make a small change.

The offerings are straightforward but varied enough that Step Up does not solely revolve around burgers.

A Good Selection for Vegetarians

The vegetarian options here are not limited to just one salad.

Vegetarian burgers, pizzas, zucchini with mozzarella, and other vegetable combinations provide enough choice for the entire group to dine together without issues.

This is particularly beneficial as vegetarian choices in smaller island towns are often much narrower than in larger cities.

Children's Menu for the Youngest

Step Up also caters to families with children.

A special children's menu simplifies the choice when dining with younger guests, as burgers, pizza, and simpler bites are typically the types of food that children readily accept.

As a result, the bistro is practical for an early family dinner, not just for later gatherings over drinks.

Hvar Wines with Informal Food

While the food offerings are relaxed, wine is not overlooked.

The selection includes wines from well-known Hvar producers such as Carić, Tomić, and Zlatan Otok, allowing guests to try something from the island alongside their burger, pizza, or lighter meal.

This is a nice blend of a more modern bistro concept and local wine tradition.

Beer Has a Special Place

Beer enthusiasts will find a good selection here.

Alongside draught beer, various local and international labels are available, making Step Up a suitable spot for an evening beer without the obligation of a full meal.

On a warm summer evening, the terrace above the harbour, a burger, and a cold beer may best encapsulate the entire idea of this place.

Cocktails and Evening Atmosphere

As the evening progresses, Step Up increasingly takes on the character of a bar.

Cocktails, music, and views of the illuminated harbour create a livelier atmosphere than during the daytime lunch, yet the place remains relaxed enough for conversation and longer stays.

Thus, after dinner, there is no need to change venues – it is easy to stay for another drink.

Who is Step Up Suitable For?

Step Up is best suited for guests seeking informal food and a good view, who are not in the mood for a traditional tavern or a more serious restaurant dinner.

It is particularly practical for younger groups, families with children, and parties where some want a burger, others a pizza, and a third a vegetarian meal.

Its greatest value lies in the combination of relaxed food, a wide selection of drinks, and an elevated terrace with one of the finest views of Jelsa harbour.

Useful Information

  • Type of establishment: bistro and bar
  • Location: Jelsa waterfront, in the very centre of the town
  • Terrace: elevated terrace with views over the harbour
  • Burgers: one of the main parts of the menu
  • Pizza: an important part of the menu
  • Finger food: zucchini with mozzarella, bacon rolls, and other small bites
  • Other dishes: kebabs, tortillas, salads, and other informal combinations
  • Vegetarian options: a good selection of vegetarian dishes
  • Children's menu: available
  • Wine: includes wines from Hvar producers
  • Beer: a wide selection of local and international beers
  • Cocktails: available for evening gatherings
  • Ambience: relaxed, with music and views of the harbour
  • Access: a few minutes' walk from the centre of Jelsa
  • Special feature: a bistro above the waterfront combining burgers, pizza, and finger food with panoramic views of Jelsa harbour