Drinks & Coffee Culture

Rakija — the National Drink

Rakija is a fruit brandy (40-65%) and ubiquitous. It is drunk as an aperitif, digestif, medicine, and gesture of hospitality. Main types:

• Travarica — Herbal grappa, the most popular on the coast
• Lozovača — Grape brandy (like grappa)
• Šljivovica — Plum brandy (more inland)
• Orahovac — Walnut liqueur (dark, sweet, mellow)
• Medica — Honey liqueur (especially from Istria)
• Višnjevac — Cherry liqueur (sweet, fruity)
• Biska — Mistletoe liqueur from Istria (unique)

Beer

Croatia's most famous beer brands are Ožujsko (Zagreb) and Karlovačko (Karlovac) — both light lagers, perfect at 35°C. The craft beer scene is growing: Zmajska Pivovara (Zagreb), Garden Brewery (Zagreb), and San Servolo (Buje, Istria) are the pioneers. A beer in a bar costs 2-4€, in the supermarket from 1€.

Coffee Culture (Kava)

Croatians drink a lot of coffee — 5.1 kg per capita per year (more than Italy!). The standard is espresso (simply order "kava" or "kava s mlijekom" with milk). Filter coffee is not available. Macchiato, cappuccino, and latte are available everywhere. Turkish coffee (turska kava) is drunk at home.

The "kava culture" means: You sit for at least 30 minutes, preferably 1-2 hours. Getting up after 5 minutes would be impolite. Price: 1.50-3€ per espresso.