11 Jul Novigrad – Top food destination with authentic Istrian cuisine and tradition
In Novigrad people are aware the food is one of the most important elements in developing tourism experience. Here they use the advantage of the region and an abundance of local ingredients. Novigrad has become known in one of the most dynamic and the most creative tourism segments – food tourism.
Novigrad is a little town in Istria which will fascinate you with its pristine Mediterranean spirit – magical atmosphere within old city walls, small streets in the old part of the town where friendly and kind host live and work, exciting smells from numerous restaurants where you’ll find even the best ones in Croatia.
World recognitions of Novigrad’s gastronomic brands
Last year’s Croatian gastronomy got numerous awards for its excellence. Novigrads restaurants and food brands successfully follow the trends, and its work is recognized around the world. Fresh, high quality and authentic ingredients and the way of preparation and presentation are the main highlight for standing out from the crowd. Michelin guide included thirteen Istrian restaurants in its special printed edition, and gave a recommendation for three Novigrads restaurants (Čok, Damir & Ornella and Marina). Restaurant Marina is also a member of association of young restaurateurs Jeunes Restaurateurs d’Europe . Restaurants Damir & Ornella is listed on „La Lista“ as one of 1000 best world restaurants, and also has two Gault & Millau culinary hats. Besides, Novigrads’ olive oils Vergal and Il Torcio are also recognized around the world and on world’s competitions were awarded with gold medals.
Novigrad’s events create boutique gourmet atmosphere
During the year in Novigrad you’ll find numerous gourmet experiences and events. They are one of the motivators for guests to visit Novigrad during pre and post season. With focusing on authentic cuisine Novigrad has raised a quality of its food offer in its restaurants, motivated and encouraged local chefs to create and develop unique menus which celebrate local wine and food offer of the region.
Gnam Gnam Fest
Gnam Gnam Fest is a set of food open air manifestations which take place once a month during April, May, June, September and October. Each event celebrates one or more local ingredient as wild asparagus, Adriatic seafood, Mediterranean scallops and other shellfish, sardines and other oily fish, and traditional Istrian dishes. All of them are real food treasures and offer to its guest’s unique experience and a possibility to better get in touch with Novigrad’s customs and tradition. Novigrad’s caterers follow all the thematic events by creating special menus with promotional prices.
Novigrad Cittanova Wine Trail – A story about wines and olive oil
The excursion Novigrad-Cittanova Wine Trail is taking place on the day of each edition of Gnam Gnam Fest, and lasts for a couple of hours. The touris train takes the guests to visit different wine cellars around Novigrad, and enjoy tasting various types of wine, olive oils and other food treats. Last stop of the Wine Trail is on the spot where Gnam Gnam Fest is taking place. In that way all the guests keep on enjoying local delicacies and entertainment.
Aminess „Wine & Gourmet Nights“
Every last Friday of the month from March till October Aminess hotels and campsites organize culinary events called „Wine & Gourmet Nights“. All the dinners are taking place in Oliveto restaurant within Aminess Maestral Hotel, while during summer months the dinner is held in newly opened Half8 restaurant in the center of Novigrad. Chef David Skoko unifies the culinary forces with reputable national and international chefs in order to offer to its guests a memorable evening with creative and delicious meals blended with accompanied wines.
Aminess Maestral Hotel – Vacation on the waves of hedonism
Only ten minutes by foot from the center of Novigrad, just next to the beach you’ll find the four stars Aminess Maestral Hotel. Hotel offers to its guest’s pleasant accommodation and atmosphere where very kind and professional staff is taking care of making your stay even more enjoyable. This is a hotel where everyone will feel great – couples, families with children and all those interested in sport, recreation, real peace and rest and those interested in delicious food. Within the hotel you will find a wellness center, outdoor swimming pool for children and adults, and indoor swimming pool with sea water. During summer months, on the pebble beach in front of the hotel you can find a space for yourself, enjoy in one of the sun beds or try some of the water sports.
With its location and all the possibilities the hotel offers, Aminess Hotel Maestral is ideal for easygoing vacation, recreation, sport as well as for enjoying in all the Novigrad’s events.
Photo credits: Tourism Board Novigrad Cittanova, Aminess Hotel Maestral