The phrase “from the farm to the table” is not just a modern trend in Zagreb County. It is, and always has been, a way of life. And the table is by no means small. The Green Ring surrounding Zagreb is primarily a rural region; the food from these fertile fields has always reached Zagreb. A good portion of the best known and loved traditional recipes originated here, in these villages, from ingredients that were always nearby and available, as the hardworking hands turned them into simple everyday dishes or family feasts. Eggs, dairy products, flour, semolina, seasonal fruits and vegetables from the garden, less often meat – these form the foundation of the homestyle cuisine of Zagreb County. The entire region, including Prigorje, Moslavina, Turopolje, Jastrebarsko, Samobor and Zaprešić, all nurture a similar culinary identity, though each of these areas have their own distinctive, local delicacies. The restaurants and households of Zagreb County respect tradition, and are waiting to tell their story on your plate – it is up to you to visit them and explore.
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Gabrek 1929.
The number in the name does in fact refer to the year of establishment. That’s a lot of tradition, and the Gabrek team have the local cuisine down perfectly. The emphasis is on meat and mushrooms, and if you’ve always wanted to know what a lavish Samobor family lunch looks like, you’ve come to the right place. Don’t miss out on trying the mushroom soup.
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Kod špilje
Also known as Grgos, named after its owner, this restaurant like its name (kod špilje = eng. by the cave) stands literally next to the cave at Otruševec and is a beloved weekend destination for the city dwellers. Here you can find excellent continental cuisine based on local ingredients, with a high-end approach. Rural elegance in the very best sense, in a peaceful, green environment and cosy atmosphere.
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Ljubekov gaj
Imagine a peaceful, rural estate on a hilltop, the warmth of wood, homestyle cuisine paired with wines from the family vineyard, a spacious courtyard – this is Ljubekov gaj. This is a place to visit just as much for the atmosphere and peaceful ambiance as for the delicious, generous portions of rustic dishes.
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Mon Ami
One might not expect a top quality, old school seafood restaurant in Velika Gorica, but that’s exactly what Mon Ami is. Featuring both Adriatic and continental delicacies, the Michelin guide has rewarded its long tradition and excellent quality with its recommendation.
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Restoran Ivančić
On the wine-growing hills of Plešivica is this family restaurant that features a combination of traditional and modern hospitality, with stunning views. The culinary experience is rounded out with wines produced on site.
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Restoran Karlo
The proud owner of a terrace that might just have the most beautiful view over the Plešivica vineyards, Karlo is the crème de la crème of the Plešivica restaurant scene. Don’t let the rustic wooden house fool you – everything that comes into the kitchen is fresh and local, and the plates coming out of the kitchen are masterfully prepared and a delight both to see and to taste.
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Restoran Potkova – Trajbar team
The Potkova (eng. horseshoe) restaurant is situated in the midst of the large and elegant equestrian estate near Zaprešić. The ambiance, service and classic cuisine rise high above its rural surroundings, making guests feel like the aristocracy at their country homes of times past.
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Seosko gospodrastvo Slavagora
In the heart of the Samobor hills is Slavagora, a settlement that boasts of stunning views over the hilly landscape, the old Okic grad ruins, Zagreb and the surrounding areas. Here we find the Kuzmanović – Slavagora rural estate. The house was built in line with the traditional architecture of the region, and tradition is also offered on the table, with excellent homestyle cuisine and wines, spirits and juices produced on site.
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Zeleni papar
A popular choice for Sunday lunch or family celebrations, Zeleni papar (eng. green pepper) is known for preparing Croatian classic cuisine with an emphasis on local and seasonal ingredients. Not a slave to trends, this restaurant confidently blazes its own path, and the hospitality of the hosts brings guests back time after time.