Kai Street Food — Restaurant in City of Zagreb

A Fusion Feast for the Senses at Kai, Zagreb

During my recent visit to Zagreb, I stumbled upon a culinary gem that offered an experience beyond my wildest foodie dreams—Kai. Nestled in the bustling streets of the city, this street food haven is a treasure trove of fusion flavors that tantalizes the taste buds in a way only true craftsmanship can.

From the moment we stepped in, the warm and welcoming vibe of Kai enveloped me, making me feel right at home. The hosts, with their infectious enthusiasm and genuine warmth, added a personal touch that made the experience all the more special. They even played some Montenegrin rap in the background, setting a lively and authentic atmosphere that had us tapping our feet as we dined.

But let's talk about the star of the show—the food. Kai's fusion cuisine is nothing short of a culinary masterpiece. The noodles were perfectly cooked, offering a delightful texture that paired beautifully with the tender chicken. The sweet potato chips were a revelation—crispy on the outside and melt-in-your-mouth soft on the inside. Each bite was a burst of flavor, expertly balanced and utterly satisfying.

To complement the meal, I had the Zmaj pale ale, a choice that did not disappoint. Its crisp and refreshing taste was the perfect accompaniment to the rich and flavorful dishes, rounding off the meal in the most satisfying way.

Kai is not just a place to eat; it's an experience to be cherished. The fusion of flavors, the warm hospitality, and the vibrant atmosphere all come together to create a memorable dining adventure. It's a testament to the passion and creativity of the hosts, who have managed to create a space that feels like a home away from home.

If you find yourself in Zagreb, do yourself a favor and visit Kai. It's not just a meal; it's an adventure that will leave your taste buds dancing and your heart full. A culinary journey that's definitely at the top of my list for any future visits...

When we first arrived there, the guy rushed up to door suddenly ,did not even allow to go inside and told us all the tables are occupied and all the ones are reserved.( there was free tables inside and outside). The girl there told him these seats are available in her table allowed us to sit but the guy told us we cant sit because someone will come there. So far, things were kind of acceptable. We were okay for take-away. Paid for it and waiting for our food to be ready.Then two guys came up and asked for free table for 4 people. The same guy asked for reservation and their answer was big NO. They were waiting like us. Just 2 mins later he welcomed them inside . We said maybe we got them wrong . Few min later there were another couple asking us what we’re waiting and if they accept without reservation (because they also dont have reservation) we said “no, we are also waiting “. Some of a sudden the same guy accepted them inside. Pardon me!! While waiting other staff asked us what we are waiting for . I explained the situation ,then after they took us inside. Few mins later the first guy came up to ask if we want drink. we asked him why did you not let us in while there many seats available and while welcoming others but not us. He could not explain himself. Few mins later other guy who took us inside came up and had the audacity to ask us by shouting why we talked to the other guy like that and “attack” him. While we are waiting an excuse for things happed he expected us to apologize and accused us for harrasing talk. We only told him it was not nice to take us in while we are waiting and other keep going in. What the heck? This guys probably the same guy whom people mentioned in their comments as a rude guy. Before learning cooking it would be better to learn how to communicate and how to show your hospitality. The food was good btw. They dont deserve 4.9 points, probably they use bots to increase...

Great, as always. First time I came to Kai was in 2021. Since the then, it’s always been my must-stop in Zagreb when I visit from Split. I had the pork baos (delicious), and a Zmajsko pale ale (cold and refreshing). The atmosphere was great and even had cake - kindly offered by a group who were celebrating a birthday.

No need for me to lower the score for this, but the only disappointing part was the service. Our waiter that night was 10/10, but one of the other workers didn’t seem very helpful when we arrived. I was introducing Kai to a friend who was visiting Zagreb for the first time, and was looking for a vegetarian-friendly place. We arrived a couple of hours before the closing time, and this worker told us that there weren’t any available tables, and that the kitchen would be closing soon. I respected this, as I have friends who work in restaurants, bars, and cafes too. We were about to leave, when a couple inside offered us to sit with them. Shortly after, our waiter came with the menus and we had a lovely night with great food and drinks.

I know the worker who welcomed us wasn’t expecting this couple to offer us to sit with them, but when he told us there weren’t any tables available or that the kitchen would be closing soon, he didn’t say “sorry” or tried to give us any solution, which I believe is essential even in these unfortunate cases.

The solution didn’t come from the staff, which I think is worth noting. I’m sure it was a misunderstanding, and I will be returning to Kai every time...