Seafood, Dubrovnik

Nautika is one of two highly praised restaurants in the area of the Old Town of Dubrovnik which are under the one ownership - Nautika is situated just outside the Pile Gate entrance to the Old Town, whereas Proto is within the town walls.

We had a reservation at Proto but happened upon Nautika on our evening walk and decided to dine there instead, having already seen Proto and preferring the setting of Nautika.

It is considered to be one of the best restaurants in Croatia, but I am inclined to disagree.

The setting is indeed stunning - overlooking the sea just outside the old town walls. The building itself is floodlit, as are the town walls, and so it makes a very romantic setting at night. As you enter or leave you will find yourself surrounded by courting couples lost in each others company. Inside it's a rather different story. The restaurant is designed on a Nautical theme, but as this theme is Naval it is inclined to be a little regimental. Accordingly I didn't find it relaxed or relaxing. The staff are dressed in a Naval-type uniform and the decor is in the theme of an old ship complete with highly polished wood and brass.

I found the menu interesting, if a little confusing, as it could be hard to tell which was a starter and which a main course (and indeed the prices are no indication). However, service was very prompt and very efficient.

I started with a rosette of seafood. This was a cold dish consisting of medallions of lobster, prawns, and scallops, garnished with truffle shavings and baby spinach salad. It was tasty but not really yummy, and at almost €50 a plate I won't be rushing to order it again.

My main course is a different matter. Interestingly enough, when I chose it the waitress almost warned me against it stating that it had a very particular combination of flavours that would not suit every palete. I decided to go ahead with it anyway and was so glad I did. It consisted of several little mounds of truffle garnished and scented basmati rice, scallops, diced goats cheese, and a sauce made from cream cheese and truffles. It was divine. I wish I could eat it now!

For dessert we both ate crepes suzette, which were flambeed in front of us. They were mouth watering.

The bill for two people was €300 which included one bottle of Croatian wine and two G&T's. Pricey. Plus there is one big beware - here they charge for the amuse bouche ( a prawn in seafood mousse with basil oil in this instance).

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Seafood, Dubrovnik

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