Oh boy, I'll never forget the first time I tried Holy Smokes, long before their first place was actually opened. It was a game-changer and I remember thinking "even my mum doesn't make meat this good". Sorry, mum!
Everything started when Aleksandar, the owner, watched one of Anthony Bourdain's shows. That inspired him to make his own smoker (wood-burning stove) after more than 6 months of research.
Holy Smokes supports a "fast casual" concept, offering immediately (just like fast food) extremely high-quality meat such as what you'd usually be served at a restaurant.
The smoker is up all night; beef is prepared for 12 hours and pork for 10. Condiments are also made from scratch -- you won't find ketchup here. My advice is to opt for a meal that includes beef, chicken or pork butt or ribs, a salad (coleslaw, corn samba, beetroot with horseradish or pickles), sides (Mac 'n' cheese, baked beans, Texas potatoes with pickles and mustard), a condiment (amazing barbecue sauces or garlic jam) and flatbread.
When I discovered them, they did have a store but they also used to participate at different food events around Belgrade, so it was difficult to track them down. Luckily, now I can regularly enjoy their barbecue at three locations: in Novi Beograd (Aleksinačkih rudara 16), at Cetinjska street (close to many pubs, so drop by before having some beers) and at Gvožđara 1870.
Find your way with 203 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Loved this Spot?Join your international community. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
An ice cream machine, one plastic chair next to it, a parasol over it, and a really pleasant person serving ice cream. Opt for a large or small portion.
by
What I love most about this place is that they provide sauces of varying levels of spiciness so you can adjust the meal to suit your taste and mood.
by
This event happens every last Saturday of the month, and it is organized by the cyclist organization called Streets for Cyclists. Join us for a ride!
by
My favorites are black sesame and pistachio, but the options are plentiful. They offer traditional fillings like black bean, as well as fruity options.
by
Zaokret serves simple yet flavorful dishes, such as eggs prepared in different styles, oatmeals, and some slightly more exotic choices like shakshuka.
by
Košutnjak, a woods 20 minutes from the city center by bus, spreads over more than 300 hectares of land and offers many paths and spots to explore.
by
The portions are big, the prices reasonable, and options diverse. I recommend the rice noodles with tofu and vegetables in a peanut sauce - very tasty!
by
I find this park to be great for a walk, as it is close to the river bank, and you can just continue your walk there, enjoying scenic views of the river.
by
Tucked in a YU-era complex, visit Utočište with its wondeful people, social impact and Sicilian sweets, — an unexpected gem in New Belgrade.
by
Savana stands out on Zemun Quay with blues, cold beer, and river views — wooden, laid-back, pet-friendly, and blissfully free of turbo folk music.
by
Belgrade’s oldest Indian spot, Diwalli Palace serves up bold spices, rich curries, and real charm — led by chef Rakesh Kumar since 1997.
by
203 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 203 Insider Tips