Taste Istria – Connect & cook with a laid-back local
Life in Istria today closely resembles life as it has always been – connected with land and nature.
This region is truly a one-of-a-kind gem for foodies and agritourism, where local gastronomic delight abounds. With Rovinj as your perfect home base, enjoy the creations produced when nature and imagination come together in perfect harmony by exploring the many flavors of Istria!
Istria Specialist of regional wines and cuisine, Professor Goran Zgrablic, is dedicated to sharing the epicurean delights of his home with curious travelers. Together with his guidance, learn how locals eat, drink, and live in Croatia’s most renowned gastronomical region. Choose a three-course menu personalized to reflect your specific interests, focusing on pasta, fish, meat, or truffles.
After a short transfer from Rovinj, the experience begins at the green market of Pula where you will purchase your ingredients before heading to the countryside home of Professor Zgrablic. As you explore the market, you will see why the Romans referred to this area as a royal pantry. The unique climate, and geographical features of the area, as well as its varied history, are reflected in Istrian products and cuisine. Local traditions are based on fruits of the sea (Blue Istria), and fruits of the earth (Green Istria). Indigenous plants, aromatics herbs, excellent vegetables, mineral rich olive oils, and freshly caught fish are among the bounty characteristic of this blue-green region.
After selecting your ingredients, you will be guided in a journey that explores the cultural aromas and flavors of the region. Every dish is made from scratch, with fresh, local, market ingredients. Learn the art of traditional Istrian pasta, master the making of brodet (traditional fish stew), or perhaps try your hand at žgvacet (Istrian goulash made with chicken and beef). You’ll also have the opportunity to taste some of the world’s best olive oils and learn the basics of wine pairing. When the cooking is complete, enjoy the fruits of your labor – simple, fresh dishes, made with love.
