When Michelin published its first guide more than a century ago, few imagined it would become the world’s most influential authority on restaurants and hotels. Today, a Michelin recommendation is a global symbol of excellence. The fact that Hvar appears in this guide confirms that the island is no longer known only for its beaches, nightlife and summer appeal. Hvar is emerging as a serious culinary and hospitality destination that can compete with the best in Europe.
This article offers a clear and engaging overview of Michelin recognized restaurants and hotels on Hvar. It is written for travellers and food lovers who want to understand where to find genuine quality on the island and what sets these places apart.
What the Michelin Guide Represents Today
Michelin inspectors travel anonymously and without prior notice. They pay their own bills, observe, taste and evaluate every detail. Restaurants are assessed based on the quality of ingredients, mastery of technique, the identity of the cuisine and consistency throughout the year. Since 2024, Michelin has expanded its hotel ratings with the introduction of the Michelin Key.
Michelin Restaurants on Hvar
Hvar is already recognised within the Michelin selection through two restaurants that are officially recommended in the guide. Being included in the Michelin selection signals genuine culinary quality, careful preparation and a dining experience that clearly rises above the standard offer.
Terra Restaurant by Maslina Resort, Stari Grad
Set above Stari Grad within the acclaimed Maslina Resort, Terra blends French culinary techniques with Mediterranean ingredients and the island’s terroir. The menu follows the seasons and draws heavily from the resort’s own organic garden, local olive groves and fresh daily catch. Michelin highlights the restaurant’s refined simplicity, clean flavours and elegant presentation. Terra represents the modern interpretation of the traditional Mediterranean diet, elevated through contemporary fine dining.
Mediterraneo, Hvar
Tucked among the narrow stone streets of Hvar’s old town, Mediterraneo offers a relaxed atmosphere shaped by many years of family tradition. Michelin highlights its inviting terrace, warm character and a wine list that thoughtfully showcases wines from Hvar and the wider Dalmatian region. The kitchen embraces local produce and familiar island flavours, serving dishes that feel both honest and carefully balanced. Mediterraneo captures the spirit of the old town and brings it to the table in a very natural way.
Together, these restaurants express two distinct culinary identities. Terra brings elevated, contemporary dining in a serene luxury setting, while Mediterraneo preserves the soul of Hvar’s traditional hospitality. Both play a vital role in shaping the island’s long-term gastronomic reputation.
Michelin Key on Hvar
Hotels Awarded the Prestigious Keys
Croatia received Michelin Keys for the first time in 2025, and among just ten awarded hotels nationwide, two are located on Hvar. This places the island among the most distinguished hospitality destinations in the region.
Palace Elisabeth Hvar Hotel – Two Michelin Keys
Situated on Hvar’s main square, Palace Elisabeth is far more than a hotel. It is an architectural landmark and a symbol of the island’s heritage. Built on the foundations of a Renaissance palace and carefully restored with refined details, the hotel unites history, luxury and modern elegance. Michelin describes the experience as exceptional, a category reserved for hotels that offer memorable, immersive and perfectly curated stays.
With two Michelin Keys, Palace Elisabeth ranks among the very best hotels in Croatia and stands out as one of the Mediterranean’s most distinguished historic luxury properties.
Maslina Resort – One Michelin Key
Overlooking a quiet bay near Stari Grad, Maslina Resort has redefined the meaning of mindful luxury. Its philosophy highlights sustainability, natural materials, architectural harmony with the landscape and warm, discreet service. A Michelin Key confirms that Maslina offers a uniquely characterful stay that goes beyond conventional five-star expectations.
The resort’s value is further elevated by the presence of Terra Restaurant within the property, allowing guests to enjoy Michelin-recognized dining and accommodation in a single destination.
What Michelin Means for Hvar as a Destination
Being featured in the Michelin Guide elevates not only individual restaurants and hotels but the entire island. Hvar becomes visible to a high-value global audience that seeks authenticity, quality and curated travel experiences.
Michelin-oriented travellers often prefer to visit outside the peak summer months, which directly contributes to extending the tourist season. They are drawn to wine, food culture, nature, design and local stories. Hvar’s deep agricultural roots, its UNESCO protected Stari Grad Plain, its olive oils, wines and coastal cuisine create an exceptionally strong foundation for this type of guest.
The recognition of Terra, Mediterraneo, Palace Elisabeth and Maslina Resort marks only the beginning. As the island’s culinary and hospitality scene continues to develop, it is realistic to expect new additions to the Michelin selection and, in the near future, even the first Michelin star awarded to a Hvar restaurant.
Conclusion
The Michelin Guide has placed Hvar firmly on the radar of travellers who choose destinations based on outstanding gastronomy and exceptional hotel experiences. Terra and Mediterraneo express the culinary identity of the island, while Palace Elisabeth and Maslina Resort define its modern luxury hospitality standards.
Hvar is far more than a postcard destination. It is a place where history, architecture, nature, wine, olive oil, the sea and contemporary cuisine come together in a harmonious and memorable way. Michelin has recognised this, and this article serves as the central information hub on the Debonda website for following the future evolution of Hvar’s Michelin scene.
