Belgrade's Rakija Revolution: From Tradition to Mixology
BY: Erika Maier
•
publishedJul 5, 2024
Belgrade's cocktail scene mirrors the city itself: bold, dynamic, and unafraid to challenge conventions. Traditional Balkan spirits, particularly Rakija, are being reimagined by a new generation of ambitious mixologists who blend local heritage with contemporary techniques.
Belgrade's cocktail culture is experiencing a remarkable transformation, as the city's historic drinking traditions collide with modern mixology. The Serbian capital's craft cocktail movement has gained momentum over the past decade, with innovative bars pushing boundaries while honoring local spirits and flavors.
The city's mixologists are particularly adept at incorporating Rakija, the beloved Balkan fruit brandy, into sophisticated cocktail creations. This integration of traditional spirits with contemporary techniques has created a unique cocktail identity that sets Belgrade apart from other European capitals.
The scene is concentrated in the historic Dorćol district and the bustling Savamala neighborhood, where speakeasy-style bars sit alongside industrial-chic establishments. Young Serbian bartenders, many trained internationally, are returning home to contribute to this evolving landscape, bringing global expertise while championing local ingredients.
A bit of history...
The story of Belgrade's cocktail culture is deeply intertwined with the city's café society of the early 20th century, when European influences began mixing with Ottoman traditions. The post-war period saw the rise of hotel bars serving international cocktails, though traditional Rakija remained the spirit of choice.
The real cocktail revolution began in the early 2000s, as Belgrade emerged from a challenging decade to embrace global trends while rediscovering its own drinking heritage. The city's first dedicated cocktail bars opened around 2010, marking the beginning of its contemporary mixology scene.
Did you know that...
During the golden age of Yugoslav socialism, Hotel Moskva served as Belgrade's premier cocktail destination, where the legendary bartender Steva Petrović created the Moscow Mule Serbian Style, adding a splash of local Sljivovica plum brandy to the classic recipe, marking one of the first successful fusions of international cocktails with local spirits.
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Ingredients & Spirits used locally
Sljivovica (Plum Brandy)
Dunjevaca (Quince Brandy)
Kajsijevaca (Apricot Brandy)
Viljamovka (Pear Brandy)
Serbian Juniper Berries
Local Forest Herbs
Cocktail Education in "Belgrade"
Belgrade's cocktail education scene is growing rapidly, with several institutions offering professional training
Belgrade Bartender Academy
The city's premier mixology school offering comprehensive cocktail courses and Rakija specialization programs
Rakija Master Classes
Specialized workshops focusing on traditional spirit production and modern applications in cocktails
Iconic Cocktail Bars in "Belgrade"
The city offers numerous options when it comes to cocktail bars. Here is a shortlist of some of the most interesting and popular...
Federal Bar
A sleek, contemporary bar known for innovative cocktails incorporating traditional Serbian spirits. Their signature Rakija-based cocktails have earned international recognition.
Pariska 1
Believers
Hidden speakeasy featuring expert mixologists and an extensive collection of local and international spirits. Famous for their barrel-aged cocktails.
Karađorđeva 9
Bar Central
Modern cocktail bar combining classic techniques with local ingredients. Their seasonal menu showcases Serbian fruit brandies in creative ways.
Kralja Petra 59
Kultura Bar
Artsy venue known for experimental cocktails and house-made infusions using traditional Balkan herbs and spices.
Kralja Milana 4
Three Dots
Industrial-chic space offering innovative cocktail presentations and unique flavor combinations featuring local spirits.
Kneza Miloša 23
Baron
Elegant cocktail lounge specializing in premium Rakija cocktails and classic drinks with a Serbian twist.
Zmaj Jovina 44
Brankov Bar
Riverside venue with stunning views and a focus on craft cocktails using house-made ingredients and local spirits.
Brankov Most 11
Šeher
Traditional meets modern in this intimate space known for its innovative takes on classic Rakija drinks.
Cetinjska 15
Bartender's Bar
Industry favorite run by award-winning mixologists, featuring both classical cocktails and innovative creations.
Kralja Aleksandra 12
Razlicak
Garden-themed bar specializing in botanical cocktails and house-made fruit brandies.
Resavska 11
Witch Bar
Gothic-inspired space offering theatrical cocktail presentations and unique spirit infusions.
Gospodar Jevremova 42
Prohibicija
Prohibition-era themed bar with an extensive collection of local and international spirits and classic cocktails.
Kralja Petra 71
Laboratorija
Experimental cocktail lab pushing boundaries with molecular mixology and local ingredient combinations.
Strahinjića Bana 13
The Finale
Upscale rooftop bar offering panoramic views and signature cocktails featuring Serbian fruit brandies.
Makedonska 21
Rakija Bar
Dedicated to showcasing the versatility of Serbian fruit brandies in contemporary cocktails.
Uzun Mirkova 7
Future expectations...
The rapid evolution of Belgrade's mixology scene suggests even more exciting developments ahead, as local bartenders continue to push boundaries and redefine Balkan drinking culture.
