Šišmiš Restaurant – Mediterranean Cuisine Above Šešula Bay

Šišmiš Restaurant is situated in Šešula Bay, just south of Maslinica. It is perched above the sea on terraces integrated into the rocky hillside and Mediterranean greenery. The restaurant offers views of the bay, moored yachts, and small boats that arrive for dinner in the afternoon.

Visitors come to Šišmiš not only for the food. The tranquil bay, its location away from the village, and outdoor dining without the bustle of Maslinica's waterfront are significant parts of the experience. The best time to arrive is in the evening when the heat subsides and Šešula gradually fills with boats.

Mediterranean and Dalmatian Cuisine

The restaurant's menu is based on Dalmatian and Mediterranean dishes, with an emphasis on fish, seafood, seasonal ingredients, and Croatian wines. Šišmiš describes itself as a destination for sailors and enthusiasts of Dalmatian and Mediterranean specialities.

To start, you might choose cold fish appetisers, octopus salad, tartare, shellfish, or another dish from the current offerings. Following that, the most common choices are fresh fish, seafood, or a meat dish.

There is no need to study the menu in detail beforehand. In such a restaurant, it is better to first ask what is fresh that day and what the kitchen particularly recommends.

Fresh Fish and Seafood

Fish is one of the main reasons to visit Šišmiš. The types and quantities depend on daily availability, so the offerings may vary from day to day.

When ordering whole fish, it is advisable to check in advance:

  • what type is available
  • its approximate weight
  • how it is priced
  • what accompaniments are included

For two or more people, a larger fish can be ordered along with several appetisers and sides to share. This way of ordering suits a more relaxed evening in the bay, especially when paired with a bottle of wine.

In addition to fish, the menu may feature shellfish, crustaceans, octopus, tuna, and other seafood, depending on the season and supply.

Meat and Vegetarian Dishes

Šišmiš is not solely for fish eaters. The menu includes meat dishes, salads, and sides made from seasonal vegetables.

This is useful when not everyone at the table is a fan of seafood. However, the offerings remain focused on Mediterranean cuisine, so do not expect pizza, fast food, or a wide selection of simple dishes as found in a family pizzeria.

Any special dietary requirements are best mentioned when making a reservation, especially for larger groups.

Croatian Wines

Wine holds an important place in Šišmiš's offerings. The restaurant has a separate wine list featuring Croatian sparkling, white, rosé, and red wines. Among the listed labels are wines from Dalmatian and other local varieties.

With shellfish, lighter appetisers, and white fish, fresher white wines are the best match. For tuna, richer sauces, and meat dishes, fuller-bodied white, rosé, or red wines can be selected.

It is not necessary to have an extensive knowledge of the wine list. It is sufficient to mention the chosen dish, what type of wine is usually preferred, and the desired price range.

Terraces with Views of Šešula

Tables are arranged on multiple levels above the sea, among stone walls and Mediterranean herbs. This layout means the restaurant does not appear as one large, open terrace but rather a series of smaller spaces facing the bay.

The most sought-after tables have an unobstructed view of the sea. During July and August, it is advisable to reserve these in advance.

The ambience is more refined than a typical tavern but not overly formal. Smart casual attire is appropriate for both lunch and dinner.

Arriving by Boat and Mooring

Šišmiš is particularly suited for guests arriving by boat. The bay has restaurant buoys, and it is necessary to arrange arrival and mooring in advance, especially during the peak season. Nautical guides indicate that Šišmiš and Šešula have their own buoys designated for restaurant guests.

When making a reservation, you should specify:

  • the type and length of the vessel
  • approximate arrival time
  • number of people
  • whether mooring or a buoy is needed
  • whether an overnight stay is planned

Upon arrival, follow the staff's instructions and do not occupy a buoy without prior agreement. In July and August, the bay fills up quickly, so one cannot always rely on finding a free spot without a reservation.

While Šešula is deeply set into the land, it is always wise to check the current weather forecast and mooring conditions before arriving and staying overnight.

Walking from Maslinica

It is possible to walk from the centre of Maslinica to the restaurant. Šišmiš is located close to the village but not along a paved waterfront. The path leads towards the southern part of the settlement and continues to Šešula Bay.

Walking involves some inclines and declines, as well as sections without continuous shade. During the hottest part of the day, it is advisable to bring water, and a mobile phone torch is useful for the return journey after dinner.

The walk is suitable for most guests in average fitness, but it may be less comfortable for those with limited mobility and families with very young children.

Arriving by Car and Parking

The restaurant is also accessible by car. The approach to Šešula is narrower than the main island roads, so it is necessary to drive slowly and be mindful of pedestrians and difficult passing.

There is parking available nearby, but the number of spaces is not comparable to a large, organised car park. Current restaurant guides indicate parking availability, but during the peak season, a free space is not guaranteed.

Vehicles should be parked in a manner that does not obstruct access to the restaurant, other properties, or movement towards the coast. For guests staying in Maslinica, walking is often the simpler option.

Reservations

Reservations are advisable for dinner throughout the peak season, especially when wishing to:

  • secure a table with a view
  • accommodate a larger group
  • arrive by boat
  • request a restaurant buoy
  • order a specific type of fish
  • arrange a tailored dish due to dietary requirements

The restaurant allows table reservations through its official website, while for same-day reservations and boat arrangements, direct contact is more practical.

Šišmiš operates seasonally, so it is wise to check the opening hours outside the main summer months before setting off.

Who Will Enjoy Šišmiš Restaurant

Šišmiš is a good choice for guests seeking a Mediterranean dinner away from the centre of Maslinica, in a natural setting close to the sea.

It particularly suits:

  • lovers of fish and seafood
  • couples and small groups
  • guests wishing to enjoy dinner with wine
  • sailors arriving by their own boats
  • visitors for whom the ambience is as important as the food

It is less suitable for those looking for a quick and inexpensive meal, pizza, fast food, or a restaurant with a large car park right at the entrance.

At Šišmiš, the experience is to be savoured: reserve a table, check the daily fish offerings, and stay long enough for the bay to settle after sunset.