About Kafana Balkan

We started with grilled cheese served with arugula and cherry tomatoes, along with grilled mushrooms. For the main course, we ordered breaded chicken with fries and ćevapi with kajmak, accompanied by a Serbian shopska salad without onions. We also had homemade flatbreads topped with sesame seeds.

The food was excellent, but what really stood out was the presentation. Every dish arrived on wooden serving boards, with fresh salad and tomatoes on the side. We loved the balance between modern plating and traditional flavors. Kafana Balkan manages to keep up with the times without sacrificing its heritage, quality, or soul.

The appetizers were fresh, flavorful, and surprisingly filling, so by the time the main courses arrived, we were already quite full. Still, both the chicken and the ćevapi were so delicious that we finished everything. Sadly, there was no room left for dessert.

The menu also includes a selection of cooked homemade dishes, and one specialty that caught our attention was smoked intestines — a true local delicacy that we will definitely try next time.

The atmosphere at Kafana Balkan is truly special. It is one of those rare traditional kafanas that has managed to preserve its authentic spirit. The space is spacious, with plenty of seating both indoors and in the garden, high ceilings, and charming details that catch your eye wherever you look.

The walls are decorated with photographs of old Kragujevac taverns, as well as scenes of streets and places where the city’s bohemians once gathered. These details carry a strong sentimental value and preserve the memory of another era. They also offer a glimpse into what fashion in Kragujevac once looked like — and it has to be said, the gentlemen of that time had excellent taste.

You can feel that this kafana has stood the test of time, but also that the owners genuinely want to highlight its historical importance while keeping its authenticity intact.

We were served by a very kind lady who explained the menu and dishes to us in detail. We also noticed that the staff seemed to have a warm and pleasant dynamic with each other, which is always a great sign.

We found out that there is live music in the evenings, especially on weekends, making Kafana Balkan a great choice not only for a lovely lunch or dinner, but also for anyone looking for a proper night out in a true Serbian kafana setting.

For more information and reservations, it is best to contact the restaurant directly.