Restaurant Castro

In Šalara, at Šalara 45b, there is the Castro Restaurant, which operates in the premises of the former Belvi Inn. This restaurant in Koper has become a recognizable spot for lovers of meat specialties, especially those who appreciate authentic Balkan flavors. However, the experiences of guests show a rather diverse picture, which is worth examining in more detail before deciding to visit.

Culinary offer: between enthusiasm and tradition

The main trump card of the Castra Restaurant is undoubtedly their grilled dishes. Guests often highlight specialties such as the "Castra čevap", which is a cheese-filled čevap wrapped in bacon, and the classic Banja Luka čevapčiči . These dishes are described as excellent and juicy, which testifies to the mastery of preparing grilled meat. In addition, one of the most praised dishes is the suckling pig , which many describe as fantastic and worth trying.

However, the offer does not stop at meat. Seafood lovers are also in for a treat, as the calamari is often mentioned as being exceptionally good, comparable to the ones you would eat in Dalmatia. In addition, the restaurant also offers pizzas , which, according to visitors, are soft and juicy. One of the features that guests consistently emphasize is the large portions . This ensures that no one leaves hungry and that the price-quality ratio is favorable.

Service and ambiance: from friendliness to serious criticism

Most guest reviews paint a picture of the extremely friendly owners and staff, who go out of their way to accommodate everyone's needs. They create a cozy and homely atmosphere that adds to the overall experience. An additional advantage that many appreciate is that the restaurant is pet-friendly, as they also provide water for their four-legged friends. Some visitors also mention the beautiful view that the location offers.

Despite the many positive reviews, there are also some very negative experiences that cannot be overlooked. One guest reported "terrible service," where the staff were unwilling to prepare a basic side dish like French fries because they allegedly didn't have any. Worse, he accused them of lying about the availability of veal. Such reviews, while perhaps isolated, indicate a potential inconsistency in service quality and customer service. Prospective guests should be aware that the experience can vary depending on the day and circumstances.

Practical information and limitations

Before heading to Castro Restaurant, it's crucial to check their opening hours. Their biggest drawback is that they are closed three days a week – Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. They are open on Mondays and Tuesdays, and during the weekend.

• Monday: 11:00 AM–10:00 PM
• Tuesday: 11:00–16:00
• Wednesday to Friday: Closed
• Saturday and Sunday: 11:00–22:00

This limited schedule may be a barrier for those who would like to visit during the week. In terms of services, the restaurant offers the option of eating in, in-person pickup, and pickup from the restaurant. It is important to note that they do not offer home delivery. On a positive note, wheelchair access is provided.

Final thought

Castro Restaurant is a place with two faces. On the one hand, it offers exceptionally good food , especially for lovers of grilled dishes and suckling pig, with the guarantee of generous portions and mostly friendly staff. On the other hand, there is the risk of inconsistent service and rather limited opening hours, which requires planning. If you are looking for a tavern with excellent meat dishes and you don't mind driving to Šalara on the weekend, this can be a great choice. However, it is advisable to keep an open mind about the quality of service you will receive.