Question 1

What is the "Friendly Stranger Bar Trap" scam in Belgrade?

Accepted Answer

A seemingly friendly local strikes up conversation and invites you for drinks at a "great local spot." The bar is partnered with the scammer and charges vastly inflated prices. Refusing to pay can lead to confrontation with staff or security. Be cautious of overly friendly strangers who steer you toward a specific bar. Always check a venue on Google Maps before going in and ask for the menu with prices immediately. Choose bars with reviews and visible pricing.

Question 2

What is the "Skadarlija Restaurant Menu Switch" scam in Belgrade?

Accepted Answer

In Skadarlija (the bohemian quarter off Skadarska Street) and around Stari Grad, restaurant touts stand outside and hand tourists laminated menus showing low prices for local dishes and drinks. Once seated, a completely different menu appears with prices two to three times higher. Complaints are met with claims the outdoor menu was 'outdated' or 'promotional only,' and some establishments station large staff near the exit to pressure payment. Before sitting down, confirm the menu you are given matches the one shown outside — ask for the current printed menu and verify drink prices specifically. If prices differ, leave immediately before ordering. Stick to restaurants on TripAdvisor with recent reviews listing actual prices, or look for places where locals are eating.

Restaurant Scams in Belgrade

Friendly Stranger Bar Trap

Skadarlija Restaurant Menu Switch

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