It may sound cliche, but some of the coolest places are those that you truly won't imagine finding at their spot.
YU Business Center, as its name suggests, was built during Yugoslavia, its digested version from the mid-'90s. So at the time when the country was falling apart, an ambitious complex was built in New Belgrade. Modern at the time, the expensive home of 'the elite'.
More than two decades later, its quirky steel constructions still provoke some kind of reaction. However, on its ground floor - and beneath - a whole world of stores has appeared.
Among some of the specific breed is Refuge, or Utočište. Officially, it's a bakery, and also a pastry shop, luring you with smells and tastes of the Eastern Mediterranean, dishes and sweets from Arabian zone of influence, from Middle East to Sicily. Delicious handmade cannoli are their highlight, as well as various artisan Mediterranean sweets.
The food is hearty and feels like home. Or a refuge. You can pick the one you'd like at the moment, be it Sicilian or Lebanese - all the while sitting near the blocks of concrete with YU in their name.
A break here is a perfect fit after a stroll at the nearby quay. And there is something more to the place - they're a social enterprise working with refugees, single mothers and young women. Something tells me I'll love this place even more.
Find your way with 199 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Intergalactic Diner in Belgrade is like a restaurant from the '60s US Midwest. You can order a Comet Dog, a Deep Space Chick or Cosmic Pancakes there...
by
"Beogradski manijak" in Belgrade gives everyone a much-needed respite. Everything about this bar is without a hint of pretense. Cheap booze, good music!
by
The old factory of IMR (or Industria Motora Rakovica) in Belgrade used to produce tractors... check out this old socialist façade white it's still there!
by
The level of spiciness is just right, and the soups are filled with fresh, tasty vegetables and other ingredients, depending on which ramen you choose.
by
Agi Pasta is my go-to spot when I need a quick lunch, as it's ready in under 10 minutes. I usually get pasta arrabbiata, which they make perfectly spicy!
by
Beyond books, Bookastore also offers a variety of products from local designers, such as jewelry, T-shirts, bags, posters, and more.
by
It's a place where you can sit on a bench, enjoy the beautiful surroundings, take a walk through the garden, learn about plants... Or attend a concert!
by
199 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 199 Insider Tips