Sarajevo, often called the “Jerusalem of Europe,” is a city where diverse cultures and religions intertwine. From mosques next to Orthodox churches to locals in both traditional and modern attire, the city offers a rich blend of history and flavors. But one thing truly stands out—its mouth-watering Sarajevo food! Bosnia and Herzegovina’s food scene is a hidden gem of Southern Europe, so let’s dive right into Sarajevo’s best dishes.
The Ottoman Influence on Sarajevo’s Cuisine
With over 400 years under the Ottoman Empire, Sarajevo’s food culture is deeply influenced by Turkish cuisine. On local recommendations, we explored top-rated restaurants in the Old Town, indulging in traditional flavors. Bosnians love hearty, calorie-rich food, from grilled meats to sweet treats—every dish is designed to fuel their active lifestyle.
Best Sarajevo Dishes You Can’t Miss
1. The Must-Try Classic: Ćevapi & Burek
Ćevapi (grilled minced meat) paired with Burek (meat pie) is the ultimate Sarajevo staple. A famous restaurant in the Old Town even has two branches on the same street—proving how much locals love it! 
What makes this dish special? The charcoal grilling, which infuses a unique smoky flavor. Definitely a must-try!
Calories: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Charcoal grilling reduces fat, but it’s still rich and filling)
2. A Close Contender: Bosnian Meat Pie
Locals swear by the Bosnian meat pie, a long, crispy pastry stuffed with juicy meat. Variations like potato pie and spinach pie are also popular.
It’s so beloved that you’ll often see locals lining up to take home boxes of these delicious pastries. A true comfort food!
Calories: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Crispy, oily, and indulgent—some even top it with yogurt!)
3. Afternoon Treats: Tufahija & Bosnian Coffee
Tufahija (Walnut-Stuffed Apples)
Tufahija is an Ottoman-inspired dessert, featuring apples stuffed with sweet walnuts, sugar syrup, and cream. It’s incredibly sweet, making it a perfect coffee pairing.
Calories: ⭐⭐⭐ (No meat, but rich in nuts and cream)
Bosnian Coffee
Bosnian coffee is brewed in a traditional copper pot, similar to Turkish coffee. The fun part? Locals place a lump of sugar on their tongue while sipping, balancing the bitterness.
Calories: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (The bitterness cancels out some of the sweetness!)
4. A Unique Experience: Grandma’s Okra Soup
This dish is not for everyone, but it’s a must-try for the adventurous foodie. Made with Bosnian chicken and okra, the soup thickens as it simmers, creating a rich, tangy flavor.
Calories: ⭐⭐⭐ (A hearty soup with a unique texture—some love it, some don’t)
5. Grilled Skewers: The Universal Comfort Food
Bosnia’s love for charcoal-grilled meats is evident in its kebab culture. One street in the Old Town is dedicated to halal grilled meat, featuring juicy chicken and beef skewers.
The local specialty? Meat grilled with black stones, which locks in moisture while creating a crispy outer layer. Absolutely delicious!
Calories: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Perfectly grilled meats with fried potatoes—what’s not to love?)
