Croatia’s Sparkling Gem
By Miranda Noelle Plume
Croatia’s Sparkling Gem
By Miranda Noelle Plume
Discover the culinary treasures of this magical place: Kvarner.
Where to go. What to do. And most important, what to eat. Let’s face it, traveling basically encompasses these three facets. After choosing your destination, and making your list of activities, it’s all about the food. And Croatia’s Kvarner region is where you will find some of the best food you’ve ever had in your life. Designated the European Region of Gastronomy for 2026 by the International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and Tourism (IGCAT), it is a one-of-a-kind blend of coastal, mountain, and island cuisines. If you’re the type to explore and discover a place through its culturally significant food, Kvarner is the destination of a lifetime. Nourish your body and spirit with Kvarner’s delicacies as you take in its vibrant streets, charming towns, aquamarine bays, and lush forests.
Image Credit: Above Image, Sandro Tariba
Surf & Turf
Located between the Adriatic Sea and the mountainous Gorski Kotar, Kvarner straddles two diverse landscapes, and its gastronomy reflects this dichotomy perfectly. Two of the most famous and beloved dishes are the Kvarner scampi and lamb of Cres island. Kvarner scampi is often called the best in the world and an annual Scampi Festival is celebrated in spring months in the Crikvenica-Vinodol Riviera in Kvarner Region. These fresh langoustines thrive in the waters of the Kvarner Gulf and grace the menus of many fine dining establishments in the region.
Island lamb is considered as special as Kvarner scampi, thanks to sheep and lambs in Kvarner typically grazing on grass consisting of more than 1,400 different plant species that grow here. This gives the meat its deliciously unique flavor, and it’s often prepared in a wood-fired oven called “Peka”, grilled, breaded, or boiled and served with a side of potatoes or vegetables, or handmade šurlice pasta. In addition, Cres island hosts an event each April called Days of Cres lamb and cheese.
Image Credit: Lili Bašić
A Secret Recipe
Rab cake is one of the most popular desserts in Kvarner, with a recipe passed down exclusively through word of mouth for generations. This shell-shaped dessert is believed to date from the 12th century, when it was first created for Pope Alexander III in the St. Andrew monastery on the island of Rab. It’s the perfect sweet treat (featuring almonds and maraschino liqueur as main ingredients) enjoyed either alone or with a glass of sparkling wine or prosecco.
Cheers to That
You can’t visit Kvarner without learning about žlahtina wine, a type of white wine made from an indigenous variety of white grapes that grow on the island of Krk. Žlahtina grows in large grape clusters and produces a dry wine with a fruity aroma and smooth taste. It pairs well with a variety of fish appetizers and various sheep’s milk cheeses. Wines from Kvarner regularly win awards at Decanter World Wine Awards competitions, particularly for their superior quality and authenticity. Don’t forget to have a glass and toast to your luck for being able to visit a place as enchanting as Kvarner.
And the Cherry on Top
Kvarner also boasts fresh fruits and nuts native to the Opatija Riviera, specifically Lovran with its surroundings and Učka Nature Park. The Lovran cherries and sweet chestnuts that grow there can be found in numerous cakes, pastries, and other dishes, but can also be enjoyed fresh (in the case of the cherries) and roasted (in the case of the chestnuts). In fact, fresh and local ingredients dominate Kvarner’s cuisine, ensuring every bite is mouthwatering and unforgettable—whether it’s wild asparagus or fragrant rosemary, aromatic sheep’s cheese, or high-quality olive oil.
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