I want to let you in on a recent journey that I took — a short, 5-minute drive from the city center of Podgorica, Montenegro, brought me to an unexpectedly delightful spot: a restaurant named Niagara.
Now, I know what you might be thinking — why name a restaurant Niagara? Well, as I soon discovered, it’s perched right next to a waterfall. A waterfall right here in Podgorica, can you believe it? As I stepped into the restaurant, the first thing that struck me was the breathtaking view of the Cijevna River’s canyon. I could see the falls in the near distance, cascading into the river below. I walked over the river’s large stones, capturing some truly fantastic shots that no filter could improve upon.
Now, onto the food. The menu at Niagara surprised me with its mix of national and Albanian dishes. I had the chance to try out their pies and soups, which left me wanting more.
In this place, you’ll have the opportunity to relish the traditional 'sac' meat, a delicacy that’s as tantalizing as it is unique. Sac is a customary method of slow-cooking either lamb or veal, though occasionally you might find goat on the menu. The meat is arranged in a pan, which is then topped with a hefty cast-iron lid known as a 'sac'. A layer of coals is added atop the lid, under which the meat gently simmers for an extended period. This slow-cooking process ensures the meat is incredibly tender, succulently juicy, and infused with a delightful smoky essence. As a final touch, boiled potatoes are nestled under the meat towards the end of the cooking cycle, allowing them to absorb the sumptuous juices and flavors.
If you’re a fan of freshwater fish, the restaurant has got you covered with several dishes featuring fried local fish: carp or river trout, locally known as 'pastrmka'. The chefs here certainly know their way around fish preparation.
For dessert, don’t miss out on the Tres Leches. This is a national Balkan dessert made from an incredibly tender cake soaked in three kinds of milk.
However, there’s a little tip I want to share with you all. I learned that during the summer, the waterfall might not have as much water flow. It’s not a deal-breaker by any means, but something to keep in mind if you’re planning a visit.
And if you’re wondering about when to go, the restaurant is open from 8:00 am until midnight every day. It’s a place that accommodates the early birds and the night owls equally well. And, the taxi fare from the city center ranges from 7 to1 5 euros — a small price to pay for such an enriching experience.
I’ve linked the Instagram page of the restaurant below, and you’ll find the Google Maps location too. I hope you find this little piece of Podgorica as enjoyable as I did.
➡️ Instagram
