The Culinary Polarities of Belgrade
Traditional Serbian food is excellent, but Belgrade hides surprising culinary polarities. The city offers everything from refined French pastry art to authentic, spicy Chinese food hidden in residential blocks.
When you need a break from hearty platters of grilled meats, sour cabbage, and baked beans, these two opposite ends of the city's food spectrum deliver world-class flavor profiles.
The French Choux Phenomenon: Princess Puff
The pastry phenomenon of Princess Puff Belgrade has gone viral among locals and expats. Known for their choux pastries with a crispy craquelin layer and fillings like raspberry-pistachio or salted caramel, the long queues are entirely justified by the ingredient quality.
Signature Flavors & Ordering Tips
- Craquelin Choux: Golden-baked with a delicate crust that locks in silky creams.
- Raspberry Pistachio: Tart fresh berry reduction layered over rich roasted nut ganache.
- Salted Caramel & Vanilla: Creamy classic elevated with French sea salt flakes.
- Local Tip: Arrive before 4 PM on weekends to guarantee availability before popular batches sell out.
Authentic Sichuan Hot Pot in Block 70
For a completely different experience, head to the old Chinese market (Kineski tržni centar) on Jurija Gagarina street in New Belgrade. Navigate to the upper floors to find unassuming spots like LNG.
Here, you can order a boiling pot of authentic Sichuan hot pot (Hogo) that rivals anything you would find in Beijing, offering a perfect escape from heavy Balkan grilled meats.
After sweating through fiery chili broths in New Belgrade, a perfect way to finish your evening is to head over to the bohemian district to grab a specialty pour-over coffee or listen to analog music—check out our Dorćol and Cetinjska Coffee and Vinyl Guide for the best late-night hybrid listening bars.
What to Order
Split-broth hot pot (spicy Sichuan Mala + mild bone broth), sliced beef, handmade noodles, enoki mushrooms, and lotus root.
How to Get There
Take Tram 7, 9, or 13 from the city center directly to Block 70 (Blok 70) station on Jurija Gagarina street.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Princess Puff Belgrade unique?
Princess Puff specializes in freshly baked artisanal choux pastries featuring a delicate craquelin crust and premium, balanced fillings like pistachio-raspberry, salted caramel, and vanilla bean cream.
Where is authentic Sichuan hot pot located in Belgrade?
Authentic Sichuan hot pot (Hogo) is found inside the Chinese market (Kineski tržni centar) in Block 70, Novi Beograd on Jurija Gagarina street, most notably at upper-floor restaurants like LNG.