"A 15th-century courtyard inside Diocletian's Palace plating chef Mario Mandaric's revived Dalmatian dishes — for a Split dinner that impresses on setting alone."
About Kinoteka
Kinoteka occupies one of the most striking enclosed courtyards inside Diocletian's Palace — a 15th-century Gothic structure near the Golden Gate, with a stone-paved atrium, arched doorways and a central fountain lit theatrically after dark. The name means ‘cinematheque’, and the room nods to the golden age of Mediterranean cinema.
The kitchen is associated with chef Mario Mandaric, named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 Europe list in 2021 and an alumnus of the three-star Fat Duck, who built it around what he calls ‘forgotten Dalmatian cuisine’. It ranks among the most ambitious tables in Split, alongside the waterfront Zrno Soli and the rooftop ZOI.
The Kitchen
The menu revives regional Dalmatian recipes and techniques with contemporary plating: Adriatic seafood, local cured pork, home-pickled vegetables and dishes such as an octopus-ragu maccheroni, presented as a sequence of careful small plates that play sweet against salty and hot against cold.
It reads as seafood-leaning fine dining rather than a tavern; portions run refined, so come for the cooking and theatre rather than a heavy feed. For a traditional konoba alternative, Restaurant Dvor sits east along the shore.
The Room
The courtyard is the star — stone walls seventeen centuries old, soft uplighting and a cinematic styling that makes dinner feel faintly staged, in the best way. Service can run unhurried when the kitchen is busy, so it suits a long, lingering evening rather than a quick table.
Best for impressing clients
The palace-courtyard setting and theatrical plating make Kinoteka a confident choice to impress clients in Split, and the romantic, lamp-lit stone room suits a memorable birthday dinner.
Not for
Not for diners after big portions or a quick meal — Kinoteka plates refined small courses and service can run slow, so it rewards time over a fast, filling dinner.
Frequently Asked
Who is the chef at Kinoteka in Split?
Kinoteka is associated with chef Mario Mandaric, named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 Europe list in 2021 and an alumnus of the three-Michelin-star Fat Duck, who built its ‘forgotten Dalmatian cuisine’ concept.
What kind of food does Kinoteka serve?
Modern Dalmatian cooking that revives regional recipes — Adriatic seafood, local cured pork, home-pickled vegetables and dishes such as octopus-ragu maccheroni — plated as refined, contemporary small courses.
Where is Kinoteka located?
Inside Diocletian's Palace in Split, in a 15th-century enclosed courtyard near the Golden Gate, with stone walls dating back some 1,700 years.
Is Kinoteka good for a special occasion?
Yes — the lamp-lit palace courtyard and cinematic styling make it a strong choice for impressing clients or marking a birthday, though refined portions and unhurried service mean it suits a leisurely dinner.
Reserve a Table
Reserve at Kinoteka
Booking advised; courtyard seating fills in summer.
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Practical Information
AddressDiocletian's Palace (near the Golden Gate), Split
NeighbourhoodDiocletian's Palace courtyard
CuisineModern Dalmatian
PriceMains and small plates roughly €20–35 per person
Dress CodeSmart casual
SeatingPalace courtyard & interior
ReservationAdvised
