PRIME

The story

Prime Restaurant Belgrade: Modern Serbian Cooking and Regional Classics

The Kitchen and Its Creator

Prime Restaurant in Belgrade delivers a refined version of Serbian cooking that balances regional heritage with precise technical execution. Executive chef Bojan Lacmanović, known professionally as Magi, built his approach to the kitchen through years of training across Belgrade and mountain resorts like Kopaonik. He traded an early ambition for professional football for formal culinary education, eventually absorbing methods from established city venues before developing his own system. His menu rests on three clear principles: uncompromising quality, quiet simplicity, and a grounded local touch. This framework allows him to elevate familiar Serbian cooking into contemporary plates without losing their original character.

Signature Plates and Wine Pairings

Guests frequently order the house-made steak tartare served alongside crisp potato chips, a starter that demonstrates careful attention to texture and balance. The main course often features medium-rare steaks or tender Wagyu beef paired with aromatic basmati rice, while regional favorites like pljeskavica with creamy kajmak remain steady anchors in the Serbian kitchen. A curated wine list guides diners through selections that complement both the rich meat preparations and lighter vegetable-focused appetizers across this regional cuisine. These combinations earned the establishment a solid 13.5 rating from Gault&Millau, which praised the seamless integration of French, Italian, and Middle Eastern influences into everyday comfort food.

Dining Space and Evening Service

The dining room maintains a straightforward layout that keeps the focus on attentive table service and expert beverage recommendations. Staff members guide visitors through the menu with quiet efficiency, ensuring every seat feels comfortable during both lunch and dinner shifts. Soft lighting and clean lines create a setting where conversation flows easily between courses. Pastry chef Petar Žuljević rounds out the evening with desserts like Vanilla Dreams, which provide a structured conclusion to meals featuring rich meats and slow-roasted veal shanks.