Jelsa is a destination in the midst of change. The sizable works over the last few years have resulted in a very different look for parts of the town, as well as new business opportunities.
Nowhere is this more true, of course, than on the main waterfront or riva, which has been significantly expanded and is now much more of a feature of the town than previously when it was more of an access and transit point. Walking along the other day returning from Mina, it also seems that the focus of the town is shifting to reflect this new reality. The new town beach is growing in popularity, and there is now a sizable bathing option within a short walk from the old town.
But one thing that struck me walking past was just how many restaurants there are on the waterfront compared to previously. The original Me and mrs Jones and then Artichoke raised the quality of dining in this part of Jelsa, which offers one of the most divine views of all, and 2016 has brought several newcomers to the riva dining scene.
Starting from left to right, the most recent to open is Step Up, which is directly above Artichoke, where Candela cocktail bar was last summer. Check out the lead picture above for just a taste of the spectacular view. I haven’t been yet, but it is hard to go wrong with a view like that. Intial reports of the new cafe and tapas restaurant have been very positive. You can follow Step Up on Facebook here.
Just around the corner tucked away in a delightful square next to T-Club is the healthy snack bar option of U Smokve, which just opened. Read more about it here.
My mind is playing tricks of me, and I can’t remember if it was this summer or last that the ice cream parlour Obala expanded from ice creams to full restaurant service.
Next door is a newly renovated place, a restaurant called Va Bene, which again I am yet to try, but the romantic table for two on the first floor balcony is cute indeed.
And for something completely different, the fast food and craft beer combination of Flying Pig. Very tasty burgers and one of the best selections of Croatian craft beers in the country. Follow Flying Pig here.
Add to these Artichoke, Bistro Hit, Juraga and Bistro Star, and the Jelsa waterfront is slowly transforming the gourmet scene of Jelsa.
