Days of Venetian Cuisine

When the flavours of the sea, the freshness of local ingredients and a rich cultural heritage come together, something unique and new is created - the Days of Venetian Cuisine. We invite you to indulge in tempting dishes enriched with a touch of history.

For the first time, we are reviving the Venetian culinary tradition

The Days of Venetian Cuisine bring together selected restaurateurs from the city of Isola who have prepared unique menus inspired by Venetian traditions for the occasion. The focus is on simple but full flavours and dishes that impress with their simplicity and authenticity.

The caterers also drew inspiration from the Wine and Cuisine in Venetian style workshops, led by Venetian culinary expert Raffaele Bonivento and Venetian chef Christian Scarpa.

Did you know?

In 1267, Izola became part of the Venetian Republic, which greatly influenced life in the town. Venetian influences left a lasting mark, especially on the cuisine, which is based on local and seasonal ingredients and follows the principle of "zero kilometers." Venetian cuisine emphasizes natural flavors, which are often overlooked in today's fast-paced life.

Get to know our restaurants

To help you find an experience that suits your taste, here are the participating providers.

Marina Hotel Restaurant - from sea to plate

The Marina Hotel's restaurant is synonymous with responsible cuisine, known for its delicious seafood specialities such as fish, shellfish and other seafood. Their menu adapts to the seasons and the daily catch of the fishermen of Isla, ensuring freshness and authenticity.

Chef Ivica Evačić - Ivek and his team have created a restaurant that boasts Michelin and Gault Millau accolades.

The restaurant is part of the hotel of the same name, where you can spend the night and relax in the spa.

Address: Veliki trg 11, Izola

Book your table: +386 (0)5 66 0 4410

Gostilna Bujol – Tradition and Authenticity

Gostilna Bujol invites you to a genuine experience of simple and authentic seafood cuisine. In the cozy ambiance of Manzioli Square, where you can feel the true spirit of Izola, the cheerful Alen Pušpan will spoil you with dishes prepared according to traditional recipes. Some recipes are over a hundred years old, including their famous "bakala."

Nearby, you’ll find the Manzioli Wine Bar, where you can explore the secrets of orange and other naturally produced wines after a delicious meal.

Address: Verdijeva ulica 10, Izola
Book your table: +386 41 799 490 (closed on Mondays and Tuesdays)

Restaurant Kamin – Culinary Delights with a View

On Belvedere Hill, Restaurant Kamin offers the most stunning views of Izola. On clear days, the view stretches across the Gulf of Trieste and even as far as the Alps. The restaurant is renowned for its à la carte selection of seafood and meat dishes, enriched with Belvedere extra virgin olive oil, made from olives grown in the groves beneath the restaurant.

Under the guidance of Chef Igor Delak, the restaurant team will spoil you during the Days of Venetian Cuisine with a special menu:

marinated sea bream (orada na šavor), pasta with clams (vongole), and cuttlefish stew with chili and polenta (sipin brodet).

After your meal, you can stay overnight at Hotel Cliff, which proudly holds the Slovenia Green sustainability label, or unwind in their wellness center.

Address: Dobrava 1a, Izola

Table reservations: +386 5 660 5666

Medljan Tourist Farm – A Rural Idyll

Venetian cuisine, alongside seafood dishes, also includes meat and vegetable specialties. At Medljan Tourist Farm, run by the family of Marina, Marko, and Tilen, you can enjoy dishes prepared according to Grandma Justa's recipes. Their typical Istrian cuisine is based on local ingredients and seasonal delights from their garden.

During the Days of Venetian Cuisine, they offer:

Pašta fažoj (pasta and bean soup)
Venetian-style pork liver with polenta
Riži biži (risotto with peas) and pork in natural sauce
You might also be surprised by a Venetian dessert, but let’s keep that a tasty secret!

The farm offers accommodations, relaxation in the embrace of nature, and interaction with their animals, including horses, donkeys, and geese. Additionally, Medljan Farm is an ideal starting point for exploring the Istrian countryside.

Address: Cetore 29, Izola
Table reservations: +386 40 626 684 (opening hours: Friday to Sunday, otherwise by prior arrangement only).

Support Local

The Days of Venetian Cuisine not only highlight flavors rooted in tradition but also values that are the foundation of the local community. By visiting participating inns and restaurants, you support local providers who preserve and develop the Istrian identity while promoting environmentally friendly agriculture and fishing.

In doing so, you contribute to sustainability based on respect for nature, local resources, and traditions. Alongside unique culinary experiences, you help foster the development of the local economy and sustainable practices that strengthen community bonds.