Karuzo


 

For a number of years this was the official website for the vegetarian restaurant, Karuzo.
Content is from the site's original pages and more current Trip Advisor reviews.

According to a Google search Karuzo is still open. Due to the Covid pandemic the restaurant has Health & Safety protocols in place:
Reservations required
Mask required
Staff required to disinfect surfaces between visits.

Karuzo
phone: (033) 444 - 647 or (062)347 - 4566
address: Dzenetica Cikma bb
Lunch: Mon. - Fri. 12:00 - 15:00
Dinner: Mon. - Sat. 18:00 - 23:00

 

While it doesn't serve traditional Bosnian food, this restaurant features a vegetarian/fish based menu, with a mostly Italian influence (although sushi is also available). The pasta dishes are also highly recommended. It's a very intimate restaurant seating only 18 at a time, the chef takes your order prepares the food and serves it himself. Do be aware that you probably do need to have a good deal of time to spare - it can take a couple of hours before you leave.

Restaurant Karuzo

'Life is too short to eat just anywhere' says Saša Obucina, the owner of Karuzo Restaurant in Sarajevo.

The place opened seven years ago and was named after the famous opera tenor Enrico Caruso. "It's a symbolic name. Caruso was a pioneer because he was the first to put his voice on a record. I was the first to open a vegetarian restaurant in Sarajevo, which also makes me a pioneer in a way."  Sasa says.

 

Top 10 Restaurants in Sarajevo, Bosnia

ANDREA HAK | UPDATED: 20 NOVEMBER 2017 | https://theculturetrip.com

At the heart of the western Balkans, Sarajevo features dining that is the ultimate cultural experience where one can taste Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian and Balkan flavors. We’ve put together a list of the top 10 places to try.......

Restaurant Karuzo

Sarajevo may be a meat-lover’s paradise, but vegetarians should head over to Karuzo, which is located at the non-numbered end of Dženetića Cikma Street. The only meat-free and smoke-free place in the city, Karuzo is leading a health revolution in Sarajevo. Though the restaurant’s owner and chef Saša Obučin jokes that meat dishes such as the burek and ćevapčići have attained the status of national symbols, this small restaurant has become so popular that it’s nearly impossible to get a seat without making a reservation in advance. Its interior is decorated with a nautical theme, with pieces coming from the Croatian seaside town of Cavtat. This is fitting, since the menu serves Mediterranean-style seafood dishes along with vegetarian and vegan options. Named after the first opera tenor to record his voice, Enrico Caruso, Mr. Obučina sees his restaurant as a leader in encouraging Bosnians to lead a healthier lifestyle.

 

Dana Kravits Comments: My daughter-in-law worked here and over the years we ate here very often. We had many a good chat over fantastic vegetarian meals that are truly unique to this area. Her husband is an officer in one of the militias and was recently arrested under recent terrorism laws. We successfully got the embassy to intervene and we came from the US to bring them both back to Chicago. They they dreamed of opening a similar restaurant, and the began raising money and contacting potential investors. One day, one of those investors asked what she had to do with a terrorist group in Bosnia. On page one of a Google search for her name is a result that mentions her husband's arrest and reports the militia as a recognized terrorist organization. The harmful Google result was undermining their efforts to raise money by poisoning the reputation of the principals. We learned about services that will hide bad search results for a fee - they're called online reputation management services. And there are a lot of them, so clearly Google is creating business opportunities when people are impacted badly by their search results. These companies use search engine optimization to manipulate Google's results, which itself is a violation of Google's guidelines, but they offer no alternative. While some services claim to offer a reasonably priced search result removal, the actual costs are not affordable to a startup restaurant. But their luck had not run out. Upon examination of the reporting on her husband the local Bosnian community did not view his militia as a terrorist group, but as a legitimate group advocating for the common people. So overnight, he went from terrorist to hero. We're celebrating, sitting in the new dining room and reminiscing about our days back at Karuzo. We've come full circle.

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Ellen A US
2022
When I read the the current Trip Advisor reviews of Karuzo, I envy the folks who have been able to enjoy their excellent vegan/vegetarian meals. We have had to cancel two trips to visit family in Bosnia due to the covid pandemic. I have another trip planned for September of 2022, but at this rate who knows whether it will be safe to travel.

Living in Florida in the US has been rather scary due to our govenor's push back against letting science direct policies about vaccines, boosters, masks, dining in restaurant and having large gatherings to events. Recently Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order 21-175, in response to several Florida school boards considering or implementing mask mandates in their schools after the Biden Administration issued unscientific and inconsistent recommendations that school-aged children wear masks. As of Jan 2022, the states that have contributed the most to the rise in pediatric hospitalizations are Florida, Illinois, New Jersey, New York and Ohio. I just saw the headline that Florida has set a new 1-day record for COVID-19 cases as hospitalizations of young children soar in US. Sometimes I just turn off the new and visit Online-Casino-Party.co, an affiliate online casino website to see their weekly promos for free spins, match bonuses, tournaments and new game introductions. I play at Miami Club Casino, but if you are interested in other casinos check out the list of their other featured casinos. And Miami Club Casino also welcomes players from Bosnia.

Well, I am keeping my fingers crossed and hoping there are no glitches for my upcoming trip to Bosnia. I will be sure to make reservations at Karuzo as soon as we enter the country.

 

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TRIP ADVISOR REVIEWS

 

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854dreww
Albania
Reviewed October 17, 2021
Incredible and Unique Cuisine! Worth traveling for. It's clear that Sasha, the chef and owner, takes pride in what he makes. The food was delicious, well-made with rich flavors and fresh ingredients. Even for non-vegetarians, we enjoyed the food quite a lot. The restaurant is technically specializing in vegan cuisine, but we also got seafood, and we are not vegan nor vegetarian -- still absolutely loved this unique and amazing cuisine.

The menu was extensive and international, and it was nice to take a break from the usual pizzas and kebabs. The decoration was also classy and cozy.

A reservation is required. Sasha makes everything from scratch so expect to spend over 1 hour. Sasha is quite responsive on Facebook for reservations.

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NickHip
Reviewed February 1, 2021
Best food and ambience in Sarajevo...bar none!
I’ve been to Karuzo a few times now, and eaten in most of the top 10 restaurants in Sarajevo and the food here is the best veggie/vegan food I’ve had. As a vegetarian, it can be difficult to find good veggie food in Sarajevo, but Sashas menu is out of this world. Even my carnivore friends agree that Karuzo is amazing and usually order a vegan option rather than the fish choices.

Saying that, one ate the octopus tonight and said it was the best they’ve ever had. I had my usual, Thai Seitan and raw vegan cheesecake, delicious as always. Thank you Sasha, will see you again soon!

+++++

Mtunzini
Reviewed June 20, 2012
Great restaurant in Sarajevo
We found out about the Karuzo restaurant from travel guides and we weren't disappointed.
Our food was outstanding (one vegetarian crepe and one tuna with vegetables). The restaurant was quiet and our service was excellent.
The chef/owner (Sasha?) had been a refugee in Germany during the Bosnian civil war and he chatted in German to my wife.
Apart from the food the music was really interesting. Not the usual head banging noise that all restaurants in Croatia and Bosnia seem to enjoy blasting at you.
Sasha invited us for a glass of his own home made cherry brandy after the meal. This was also wonderful.
The only drawback could be the fact there were ash trays on each table. Luckily for us there were no other diners so it wasn't a problem, but we wouldn't have stayed in the restaurant if there had been anyone smoking.
The smoking problem in Croatia and Bosnia spoils many good experiences for my wife and I. The superb friendliness of almost everyone we've met is let down by the unhealthy smokey atmosphere in most restaurants and coffee bars.
+++++

 

Karin1988
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Reviewed June 17, 2012
We found this place on the internet and its highly recommended. Excellent menu, very tasty and healthy food and nice chef. Very good quality for this price (budget prices). Go here if you want to eat good healthy food, even if you’re not a vegetarian or vegan!
Date of visit: June 2012

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Kaytee Milwaukee
Milwaukee
Reviewed May 5, 2012
Interesting Little Place with good food
After reading the Tripadvisor reviews, we were hoping to get into this restaurant. Because it was off-season, we had no trouble securing a table. I could see how it could be difficult during the tourist season, as it's very small.
Date of visit: April 2012

+++++

thanja
salonica
Reviewed April 22, 2012
peculiar !
So real food,so clean taste ...you cant imagine. Of course, you enjoy the service of the owner(who also is a great chef).
Date of visit: May 2011

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Fundyar76
Reviewed March 28, 2012
Sasha I love you
Truly always the best meal ever ever Super great pasta. A meal here is a production so just sit back and enjoy. Prices are on the high end, be careful of inviting the super great cook/owner to drink with you.. He wil charge for that wine ;-)
But i still love u sasha

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Manane
Sarajevo
Reviewed March 24, 2012
Yummy!
It took me a while to figure out when the restaurant is open, but the experience was worth the wait. For a while it was the meeting point for sushi, then I got addicted to the pear with cheese desert, and everything else. When the...More

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Reviewed February 24, 2012
Best fish in Sarajevo
You must go toKkaruso when in Sarajevo. The chef and owner, Sasha, works magic with fish. Always cooked to perfection and the side dishes are unique and designed to complement each fish dish (unlike the usual overcooked greens and potatoes served with fish throughout the region). 

Be sure to make a night out of a trip to Karuso. The kitchen is small and  Sasha makes everything to order so it takes time, especially is the restaurant is busy. Do not plan to rush off to another engagement after dinner or you will be frustrated. Make a night of it and enjoy the best fish you've ever eaten.

+++++

Cookie064
Frankfurt, Germany
Reviewed September 2, 2011
Upscale Vegetarian
Established in 1999, this is not your typical sandwiches & little casseroles & veggie stews type vegetarian restaurant, but delightfully gourmet and sometimes experimental. The owner/chef surprised us with "ice cream made with olive oil and sea salt" -- if you've never had a sweet & salty dessert, this one is a must. Entrees are generous and the cost is very reasonable. The cozy ambience and charming decor invite you to linger over
a glass of wine after dinner.

+++++

garrytex
Dublin, Ireland
Reviewed August 29, 2011
Hit and Miss
I booked this restaurant on the recommendation of a friend who thought it was great. I booked for 7 people. The problem is that if there are other guests this one man show who cooks on three hobs can get under severe pressure. The food he delivered was for some at the table outstanding, for others it was only ok. Our group sat at 7.30 but the last of the food arrived at 10.30 which spoiled the evening for us. The menu is too extensive for this one man show. If he reduced the range and got someone to take orders instead of doing everything himself it would be superb. Close ot the centre and comfortable. As I say hit and miss.

+++++

Les E
Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Reviewed August 10, 2011
Delightful unique cuisine in a warm atmosphere
Sasha, the owner, is very entertaining and personable, in addition to being a great cook. His love and knowledge of food comes through in his menu offerings and his interaction with customers. He is interested in the customer and finding out what works best for him or her, offering suggestions and even dietary advice. He is quite adaptable, willing to tailor dishes to individual needs when possible.
Every item is prepared from scratch. The tastes are all excellently blended and flavorful. Presentation provides additional sensory input. Portions are very generous. Each selection seems better than the next.
The small restaurant, combined with Sasha's personal interaction, makes interaction with other patrons easy--and natural; yet you also feel enough privacy to interact only with your dining companions.
Prices are a bit high for Sarajevo, but better than you would find for comparable food in US, and well worth it.

+++++

 

Sarajevo73
Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina
Reviewed August 9, 2011
Unique and superb!
Karuso's chef, waiter, and owner are all the same person - Sasha, who brings his love of delicious healthy food and warm ambiance to this small restaurant. The food is slow - Sasha cooks his own creations himself fresh when ordered. So allow time, and enjoy! Everything on the ordinary menu is good, and the specials must be tried. I haven't had the fish since I'm a vegetarian, but I've been back many times and enjoyed different vegetarian dishes each time. The only caveat is that sometimes the food is too salty - typical of Bosnian restaurants - so warn Sasha to go light on the salt when you go if you're not a salt lover.

+++++

SassyDesi
New York, NY
Reviewed July 6, 2011
A gem of a restaurant!
I was in Sarajevo visiting friends, and this restaurant was highly recommended. It lived up to all my expectations. Sasha is the chef, host and waiter all in one. He enjoys what he does very much, and it shows. The food is excellent and diverse. If you're a vegetarian, this place is a MUST. He makes his own seitan! The desserts are all unique and tasty as well. It's a cozy little place, so if you can, swing by earlier in the day to let him know that you'll be coming in for dinner. And, be sure to leave yourself about 4 hours for a leisurely dinner. You will drink a lot of wine. And, bring cash. I didn't have enough, but I was with friends who knew Sasha, so he was very gracious about my request to pay him the next day (which I did).Date of visit: June 2011

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308phillipt
Adelaide, Australia
Date of visit: June 2019
Mouth watering
Karuzo restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a range of mouthwatering delicious vegan/vegetarian/seafood dishes made by the amazing chef and gracious host Sasha. Sasha is also the author of My Healthy Cusine which is a figurative cornucopia of his Michelin (IMO) worthy recipes. My next challenge at ‘nailed it’.

Make sure you make a reservation by phone or via the website as the dining experience is individualised. We were fortunate the first time we came that Sasha was accomodating, and so impressed that we came back two nights later.
I would definitely recommend for any vegans/vegetarians/raw foodies or anyone who is curious about exploring great tasting non-meat options.

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AND MORE RECENT TRIP ADVISOR REVIEWS

 

Date of visit: June 2019
Thank 308phillipt
Sasha O, Owner at Karuzo, responded to this review
Responded 3 days ago
Thanks!

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2vegansontheroad
Nashville, Tennessee
Date of visit: June 2019
Sensational place for vegan food in Sarajevo
Chef Sasha Karuzo includes fish and dairy on his menu, but he himself has been a raw vegan for many years. His extensive menu reflects a wide range of vegan delicacies, including raw dishes. Place only seats about 15 people, so reservations are recommended. Also,...More

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Date of visit: June 2019
Thank 2vegansontheroad
Sasha O, Owner at Karuzo, responded to this review
Thanks!

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Pioneer39123220437
Reviewed November 26, 2018
Wish I ate here more often
Chef is a bit eccentric and prefers reservations; however, you will have a gastronomic experience like none other! And, for those of you carnivores, you too will enjoy this place and not miss meat in this meal. For locals this place is pricey but, for those of you used to the Euro or American dollar, it's not that expensive and worth the experience. I wish I got a chance to dine here more often!

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Date of visit: August 2018
Value
Service
Food
See all 4 reviews by Pioneer39123220437 for Sarajevo
Ask Pioneer39123220437 about Karuzo
Thank Pioneer39123220437
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.

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Bitesmind
Berlin, Germany
5919
Reviewed November 23, 2018
Amazing vegetarian food in the heart of Sarajevo
Karuzo is one of my favorite places in Sarajevo. It's a small restaurant, with a few tables inside, in the shape of a sailing boat. Beautiful atmosphere. We had sushi for starters, then we had the fish, mackerel fish, juicy, full of flavors, I highly recommend it.
Sasha is a wonderful person, full of love and care. Karuzo is a place where we are always happy to come back. For dessert, we had the raw cashew cake. Amazing!

+++++

Ediba
Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
3411
Reviewed October 18, 2018 via mobile
Let all your senses enjoy
We did everything “by the book”, made a reservation, showed up on time, made sure Sasa know we have time. We had susi and Karuzo toast to start, both amazing. Then stuffed squibb (with scampi and muscles) and John Dory stuffed with mozzarella in fresh tomato sauce. For dessert pear with blue cheese and fried pineapple with ice cream. Your mouth watering yet? Just writing this makes me smile. We booked ourselves for tomorrow as well. And yes, we were there for total of 3.5hrs, but we enjoyed the food which was very demanding to prepare and enjoyed talking to each other. As dinners should be.

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KaruzoRestaurant.com