Big Ben Tivat

My first trip to Big Ben Tivat was years ago to celebrate a business event, and I was taken there by my new business partner who knew Big Ben as an excellent place to go. What had started as a small oceanfront cafe with just seven tables, had by then already grown into a sizeable eatery.

Or shall we say pub? Or shall we believe the owners who call it a cafe pizzeria? See, here lies the little problem: Big Ben tries to be everything to everyone (sorry to the team if you are reading this, it is a well-meant critique). Or maybe they are just changing their concept according to market demand.

After all, they seem to be doing something right. Big Ben is one of the oldest restaurants in the region (established in 1991). There’s a regular menu of twenty or so pizzas, including the Big Ben Special Pizza with mozzarella and prosciutto and the Frutti Di Mare Seafood Pizza. 

But you will also find many Adriatic fish specialties like octopus salad and even fish and chips on the rather extensive bill of fare. Plus, there is also a great choice of meat, pasta, and salad dishes to choose from, including specials like BBQ Pulled Chicken or Pork Burgers. You won’t leave hungry, that is a given.

But do me a favor and don’t expect fancy Italian restaurant quality, with the modest prices you would be foolish to expect that. In the case of the Big Ben Tivat, what is crystal clear is that these pizzas are miles better than most other items on the menu. And they are also about one-third cheaper than in restaurants nearby.

I rate Big Ben very highly for the pizza, the excellent draft beer, and especially the great people and excellent atmosphere there. Especially on the upper floor with tables for groups of friends, overlooking the Bay of Kotor and the Waikiki Beach beneath it.

In the evening, it’s worth coming here for a glass of cold beer or local wine, unwinding with friends or family. Saving the best for last: the deserts over at Big Ben are superb but also sinfully sweet. Try the Big Ben pancakes with berries topped with vanilla ice cream.

This establishment is located in the Seljanovo district of Tivat, right at the coastal promenade connecting Porto Montenegro with Donja Lastva. It’s a 20-minute walk from the town center.