In the heart of the Adriatic, the island of Hvar is known not just for its sun-drenched beaches and ancient stone streets, but also for its exceptional seafood cuisine. Among the many places that dot the island, Leporini stands out as a true celebration of Hvar’s maritime heritage. With a philosophy rooted in freshness and local sourcing, Leporini offers a dining experience that bridges the journey from sea to table, allowing visitors to taste the soul of the island with every bite.
The magic begins at dawn, when local fishermen cast their nets into the crystalline waters of the Adriatic. The daily catch, often including delicacies such as sea bass, bream, scampi, and squid, is brought ashore and delivered straight to Leporini’s kitchen. There’s no middleman, no extended refrigeration — just the promise of ocean freshness. This direct connection with the sea allows Leporini’s chefs to craft menus that change with the tides, reflecting the true rhythm of island life.
Dining at Leporini is not just about eating; it’s a sensory journey. The restaurant is Elegant tucked within Hvar’s old town, where the aroma of sea salt lingers in the air and the views stretch out across the harbor. Inside, the atmosphere is warm and inviting, a seamless blend of traditional Dalmatian charm and modern simplicity. The wooden beams, stone walls, and soft candlelight evoke a rustic authenticity that complements the food served.
Each dish is a testament to simplicity and technique. The chefs at Leporini don’t mask the flavor of the seafood with overpowering sauces or complex seasoning. Instead, they focus on enhancing the natural taste through grilling over olive wood, a dash of locally pressed olive oil, a pinch of sea salt, and herbs foraged from the hillsides of Hvar. This minimalist approach not only respects the ingredients but lets diners experience the purity of Adriatic cuisine.
Star dishes include grilled octopus, tender and slightly charred, served with a chickpea puree and lemon zest; sea bass baked in a salt crust to preserve its succulence; and black cuttlefish risotto that carries the deep umami of the ocean. Another favorite is the daily “catch of the day” platter, where fish is served whole and filleted tableside, paired with garden vegetables and wild greens. It’s a visual and flavorful reminder of the morning’s catch and the journey it took to reach your plate.
To complement the cuisine, Leporini offers a curated selection of Croatian wines, many of which are produced on the island itself. Whites like Pošip and Bogdanuša pair beautifully with seafood, their crisp profiles echoing the minerality of Hvar’s rocky soil. The knowledgeable staff are always eager to recommend pairings that elevate each course and enhance the dining experience.
What truly sets Leporini apart is its commitment to storytelling through food. The staff aren’t just servers — they are ambassadors of Hvar’s history, eager to share stories of the fishermen, the winemakers, and the culinary traditions that inspire the menu. This connection turns a meal into a memory, a conversation, a piece of local life shared with every visitor.
Leporini is more than a restaurant; it is a celebration of Hvar’s natural bounty and cultural heritage. Whether you are a seasoned foodie or simply someone in search of an unforgettable meal, this is the place where the sea’s treasures are transformed into something truly magical. Every dish carries the salt of the Adriatic, the warmth of the island, and the passion of those who call it home. From sea to table, Leporini offers a dining experience that is as authentic as it is delicious.