Ana Roš Discovers Istria: Recommendations from One of the World's Best Chefs

When one of the world's most influential chefs speaks about a destination she loves, her recommendations become an inspiring guide for anyone seeking authentic travel experiences. That is exactly what Ana Roš, chef of JAZ by Ana Roš and Hiša Franko, holder of three Michelin stars and one of the world's leading ambassadors of fine dining, has done in her latest newsletter, where she reveals the places in Istria she always loves to revisit.

According to Roš, the true magic of Istria begins when you leave the coast behind and venture inland, where rolling hills, vineyards and olive groves create a breath-taking landscape. Here, local hosts welcome visitors into their homes and traditional taverns, serving simple yet unforgettable dishes prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

She begins her recommendations at the market in Novigrad, which she describes as "a true Istrian pantry". It's her favourite place to find seasonal produce, and she especially recommends visiting the local producer Denis. To end the day, she enjoys watching the sunset with a drink at Amore Bar.

Her next recommendation is the scenic coastal path between Mareda and Antenal, one of her favourite walking routes overlooking the Adriatic Sea. She also never misses an early morning swim at the well-known Pasja plaža beach, which now welcomes four-legged visitors as well.

Roš describes Poreč as an unmissable destination and a true Adriatic gem. She highly recommends a visit to her restaurant, JAZ Poreč, an ideal spot for a morning coffee, a leisurely lunch or an aperitif at sunset. Just a few months after opening, the restaurant earned a place in the Michelin Selected guide.

Seafood lovers should make a stop at Tony's Oyster Shack, where oysters are served moments after being harvested from the sea, accompanied by a glass of local wine and beautiful views of the coastline.

For those eager to discover traditional Istrian cuisine, Roš recommends the taverns Stari Podrum and Malo Selo, both favourites among locals. She particularly highlights the truffle season, when, in her words, these restaurants offer one of the most authentic gastronomic experiences in Istria.
Roš also devotes special attention to Istrian wines. She describes Istria as one of Europe's most exciting wine regions, shaped by a unique terroir where the Mediterranean climate, mineral-rich soils and fresh Adriatic breezes come together to produce exceptional wines. She particularly recommends visiting the Kozlović and Piquentum wineries.

In the historic heart of Brtonigla, she recommends Primizia, a restaurant renowned for its wood-fired pizzas, seasonal cuisine and the warm hospitality of its hostess, Dagmar. Further inland, amid Istria's lush green countryside, she enjoys returning to the organic farm Kumparička, where some of the region's finest artisan goat cheeses are produced. 

For unforgettable sunsets, Roš's favourite spot is Stara škola in Krasica. From its rooftop terrace, visitors can take in sweeping views across rolling green hills stretching all the way to the Adriatic Sea. Alongside exceptional cuisine and excellent local wines, she also recommends exploring the venue's impressive art collection.

Shopping enthusiasts should make time for Brtonigla, where, as Roš puts it, two seemingly contrasting worlds come together. At Heritage Hotel San Rocco, visitors can admire the jewellery creations of designer Zlatar Sofić, while the nearby Agraria store - described by Roš as one of the finest country stores in the region - offers everything from gardening supplies to household essentials.

She concludes her guide by revealing the soundtrack to her travels through Istria: the songs of Đorđe Balašević, whose lyrics, nostalgia and warmth, she says, perfectly capture the spirit of this corner of the Adriatic.

Ana Roš's personal recommendations are yet another testament to the way Istria has earned its international reputation - through authenticity, local producers, outstanding gastronomy and experiences that go far beyond the traditional tourist trail. When one of the world's most celebrated chefs recommends a destination so wholeheartedly, it is a powerful endorsement of the quality, character and uniqueness of the entire region.