Lošinj - Taste of Vitality

Lošinj is an island of vitality, marking 140 years of organized tourism this year, which is closely linked to the development of health resorts. The season here used to be from October to Easter, and then everything changed. However, the season is constantly extending, primarily thanks to gastronomy. Therefore, in cooperation with Gastronaut, the Lošinj Tourist Board, and caterers, the "Smells and Flavors" project, also known as Vitality Dishes, was launched, which was developed by nutritionist Dijana Gluhak. "Vitality Dishes combine anti-aging and Mediterranean nutrition with Lošinj ingredients from island caterers, so that every dish that carries the 'Taste of Vitality' certificate truly meets these standards," says Karin Mimica, director of Gastronaut.

The basis of Taste of Vitality is avoiding carbohydrates, artificial sugars, and excess fat. These are island foods rich in quality nutrients, and after eating them, we won't only feel satisfied but will also be full of energy. There are 16 Lošinj caterers in the project, and we visited 13 of them on the press tour.

Lošinj, the island of vitality, has been recognised for 140 years as a tourist and health destination where guests come to regenerate. This is due to more than 200 sunny days a year, first-class air and sea, 280 km of hiking and cycling trails, 200 types of medicinal herbs that grow wild, and modern wellness oases, as well as a catering offer featuring local delicacies that serve to boost vitality. Fragrant herbs, fish, crabs, and shellfish from the Lošinj waters, as well as island game and lamb, are at the center of their gastronomic story.

The catering offer features delicacies whose recipes and preparation procedures are supervised by a nutritionist, consisting of nutrient-rich foods prepared in ways that best preserve their nutritional properties and in proportions that support overall well-being and energy levels. This is an integral part of the Lošinj brand as an island of vitality. A total of 60 delicacies from the offers of Lošinj restaurants have won the Taste of Vitality label.

Restoran Artatore

Hidden in the quiet Artatore Bay, just seven kilometers from Mali Lošinj, is the restaurant of the same name, which has been nurturing the flavours of the Mediterranean and Lošinj for over half a century. Protected from the bora wind, surrounded by pine forests, medicinal Mediterranean herbs, and crystal clear sea, Artatore Bay is a favourite destination for sailors and travelers looking for a break. The Artatore Restaurant was founded back in 1972 and has remained faithful to family recipes and homemade, local ingredients ever since. The cuisine combines tradition and creativity, with the heart of the offer comprising specialties that showcase the island's identity.

The owners, the Zabavnik - Kovačević family, also provide additional local charm, often welcoming guests with brandy made from wild fennel, which they harvest themselves. They regularly participate in Lošinj gastronomic events such as "Lošinj Cuisine", "Lošinj Sails Around the World", "Ancient Apoxyomenos Cuisine" and "Taste of Vitality", and their dedication has not gone unnoticed - tourist boards have awarded the restaurant multiple times, More magazine and the Croatian Chamber of Crafts.

As part of the Taste of Vitality project, the offer also includes dishes that combine gastronomy and well-being, presented to us by Marijana Zabavnik. An excellent, thick crab soup greeted us. This was followed by a crab salad, which was steamed, cleaned, and served with just a little olive oil and lemon. The shrimp with polenta are from the local coast, and it is not known which is better, delicious shrimp or excellent homemade polenta.

Island lamb and lemon sorbet with Lošinj myrtle — all carefully paired with wines from the Pilato winery, where the aromatic fresh Malvasia came from, Katunar, who planted the northernmost Plavac Mali in our country on Krk, and the sparkling wine Rose Coletti from the Kolarić winery, located in the Croatian Champagne region, Plešivica.

Konoba Silvana

If you are looking for a place where tradition is not only preserved but also felt in every bite, the Silvana tavern is the right destination for you. Located far from the tourist hustle and bustle, Silvana exudes the warmth of home, simplicity and an emphasis on the best that the island and the sea have to offer. Named after the owner Silvana, the tavern is run by her husband Marijan, daughters Gordana and Elena, and grandson Lovro, who is a future star of the island's gastronomy.

Here, the crab is the introduction to the story led by the sea: juicy, fresh, prepared with respect for the main ingredient. Squid stewed, gently braised in a rich sauce, is served with polenta — a combination reminiscent of the times when fishermen brought dinner from the sea, and polenta was the daily breadwinner of island families.

For those who prefer meaty tones, the roasted lamb with potatoes from the Silvana tavern comes straight from the oven, baked, fragrant and soft, just right. And the classic of Kvarner cuisine — shrimp on buzara with polenta — in Silvana's performance deserves applause: a simple but perfectly balanced dish that celebrates the taste of the sea without unnecessary embellishments. Shrimp are from Lošinj, and there is no alternative to that.

The whole story is rounded off by the wines of the Pilato winery, carefully selected to accompany each plate, from fresh crabs to meat delicacies. Malvasia with crab, red wine with lamb, and of course, a glass of wine for a toast with a view of the sun setting behind the pine trees. Silvana Tavern offers consistency. A place where you return for simplicity, local ingredients, and that special silence after a good meal.

Restoran Papa Bepi

The Papa Bepi restaurant offers a unique culinary experience that combines the flavours of the island and the vitality of Mediterranean food, hosted by the Soldo - Knežević family, which is known for its dedication to preserving local gastronomy and hospitality with a soul, and the owner welcomed us in beautiful Lošinj folk costumes.

The vitality menu features island lamb, carefully prepared with vegetables, both of which are baked under a baking lid, ensuring juiciness and richness of flavour. This is followed by traditional buzara made from mussels, a simple dish that celebrates the freshness of the sea and Mediterranean spices. Special emphasis is given to pljukanci Amalfi - homemade pasta served in an aromatic tomato sauce with Lošinj herbs and crunchy almonds.

The entire gastronomic offer is rounded off by wines from the Deklić winery, carefully selected to match the rhythm and character of each dish. This is the perfect opportunity for all lovers of authentic cuisine to enjoy the combination of tradition and vitality, in an atmosphere that highlights the richness of local ingredients and togetherness.

Restoran Veli žal

At the beautiful location of Veli Žal, Taste of Vitality specialises in light, refreshing seafood dishes. The evening edition of the culinary experience blended Mediterranean simplicity with contemporary interpretations, set in an atmosphere that invites relaxation, with the sound of the waves and the scents of the sea.

We tasted a classic octopus salad, prepared with an emphasis on freshness and a balanced flavour profile. Next came sea bass ceviche with quinoa—a dish that combines South American raw fish preparation techniques with Mediterranean ingredients. For the main course, grilled sea bass with chard and potatoes is served, a traditional island combination that celebrates pure, primal tastes.

Top-quality wines from the Šipun winery from Vrbnik, on the island of Krk, accompanied each course of dishes, and the exceptional experience was completed by a personal presentation by the winery's owner, Ivica Dobrinčić. This meeting of flavours and stories from the vineyards and the sea promises an evening filled with vitality, pleasure, and an authentic island spirit.

Borik Mediterranean Bar

At the attractive location of Borik Mediterranean Bar, the Taste of Vitality presentation continued with a modern interpretation of Mediterranean cuisine, emphasising top-quality ingredients and creative presentation. The ambiance by the sea and the sunset provide the ideal backdrop for a gourmet experience that emphasises health, freshness, and pleasure.

At the heart of the menu are three carefully selected dishes: juicy tuna steak, perfectly cooked and seasoned to retain the natural aromas of the sea; marinated shrimp skewers, tender and aromatic, ideal for a light dinner; and carpaccio of boškarin – indigenous Istrian cattle, served raw, highlighting the richness of the meat and the skill of preparation.

Along with this superb offering, wines from the Šipun winery from Vrbnik were served, and the presence and presentation of winemaker Ivica Dobrinčić himself gave a special touch to the evening. The combination of sea, land, and vines turns this dinner into a harmonious celebration of vitality and the Mediterranean way of life.

Breakfast Club Lošinj

In the pleasant atmosphere of Breakfast Club Lošinj, hosted by Martina Perić, the morning edition of the Taste of Vitality event begins. This gathering is dedicated to breakfast as an important meal of the day, designed in the spirit of creative fusions and local herbs that make Lošinj recognisable as an island of vitality, and this is a special place for all visitors. As the name suggests, the place is open in the morning and afternoon for many tourists who do not know where to eat a good and healthy breakfast.

The menu includes three unique dishes: shakshuka - a dish with Middle Eastern roots, enriched with aromatic Lošinj herbs that give it a special island character; green poached eggs - a modern interpretation of the classic with a dose of freshness, health and local ingredients; and Lofty Peach - a dessert creation that combines fruity and herbal notes in a light and refreshing end to breakfast.

This gastronomic fusion of tradition and innovation not only delights with its taste, but also encourages awareness of healthy eating, local ingredients, and enjoyment in every morning bite. An ideal opportunity to start the day with vitality, the flavours of nature, and the inspiration of the island.

Restoran Deveron

Restaurant Deveron, in an impressive location managed by Ivan Milanović, exudes vitality with a sumptuous menu that celebrates the richness of the sea, forests, and gardens of the Cres-Lošinj archipelago. This culinary journey seamlessly combines the elegance of Mediterranean cuisine with the rich traditions of the local community.

The gourmet experience begins with rolled octopus – a precisely prepared specialty that highlights the texture and aroma of fresh seafood. A rich and velvety cream of crab soup follows, as an overture to a layered goulash of Cres-Lošinj game, which combines the robust flavors of nature. A special treat is the ravioli stuffed with capelin and shrimp in a bottarga sauce, which brings sophistication and the depth of the sea to the plate. Finally – a refreshing salad of fruits, vegetables, and Lošinj nut fruits as a harmonious fusion of flavours and textures.

The entire gastronomic offer is accompanied by top-quality wines from the Apolitico winery, including Rosé, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Graševina, and a red wine with the symbolic name Anđeo s greškom (Angel with an Error). This wine-gastronomic symphony provides an authentic experience of vitality and Mediterranean creativity in the heart of Lošinj.

Moby Dick

At the Moby Dick pastry shop, hosted by Petar Goleš, the Taste of Vitality program takes a refreshing twist through an innovative offer of vitality drinks. The focus is on carefully crafted elixirs that combine natural ingredients with functional effects, designed to regenerate, energize, and balance the body and mind.

The menu includes drinks with suggestive names: Summer Tonic – a refreshing and slightly bitter drink ideal for summer days; After – a balancing tonic for the body after physical or mental exertion; Red Lava – full of antioxidants and fruity notes, it stimulates circulation and energy; Green Monster – a green miracle that revitalises thanks to plant extracts and chlorophyll; and Exhaustion Fighter – a powerful ally against fatigue and stress, perfect for restoring strength.

This vital liquid offers not only a refreshing quench for thirst but also encourages a holistic approach to health, providing visitors with an authentic experience of taste, freshness, and well-being in every sip. In addition, we were offered Lošinj krokant, a special delicacy of this island that has broken Guinness records.

Restoran Baracuda

At the Baracuda restaurant, hosted by Neven Klanac, Taste of Vitality presents a symphony of flavours from the sea in an interpretation that celebrates local ingredients, fishing traditions, and the Mediterranean ease of life. In the heart of Lošinj, where the sea and culinary passion converge, visitors can expect an exceptional gastronomic experience.

The menu begins with a refined toothfish carpaccio, which reveals the full flavour of this prized white fish, while raw Lošinj scampi exude the freshness of the sea and the delicacy of preparation. This is followed by a palette of seafood delicacies and textures – a plate that combines different shapes and flavours from the seabed, providing a truly gourmet atmosphere. The fish brodet in an island way takes you back in time, evoking the scents of our grandmothers' kitchens, while the homemade pljukanci with seafood brings the rustic warmth and fullness of a Mediterranean meal.

The gastronomic offering is complemented by carefully selected wines: an elegant Malvasia from the Benvenuti winery, ideal for white fish and shellfish, and a fresh Rosé from the Galić winery, which rounds out the Mediterranean palette of aromas. An evening at Baracuda thus becomes a true celebration of vitality, the sea, and island gastronomy.

Restoran Noštromo

At the Noštromo restaurant, hosted by Mario Pejić, Taste of Vitality culminates in sumptuous gastronomy that brings the richness of the sea, forests, and island gardens to your plate. This gastronomic program is designed as a festive celebration of vitality, seasonality, and Lošinj tradition, with selected recipes that combine a contemporary approach and authentic island flavours.

The dinner begins with octopus salad – light and refreshing, with a hint of Mediterranean herbs. This is followed by pljukanci with shrimp and zucchini, a harmonious combination of sea and garden, and then a ragu of island game, which brings strong, earthy flavours of local forests. Tuna steak with sautéed vegetables offers a rich but balanced main course, while squid on brodette with herbs and polenta evokes the aromas of ancient cuisine. A special attraction of the evening is fish in salt in the Lošinj style – a dish that combines the ritual of preparation and the fullness of natural taste. Finally, figs in prosecco with cream cheese and almond biscuits are served – a dessert that combines fruity sweetness and creamy texture.

The gastronomic experience is accompanied by wines from the Deklić winery and Juričić winery, carefully selected to provide each course with its own aromatic and enological accompaniment. At Noštromo, the evening becomes a symphony of vitality, pleasure, and island hospitality.

Diana Steakhouse

In the elegant setting of Diana Steakhouse, the Taste of Vitality program presents a selection of dishes that blend local tradition with international flair, all in the name of freshness, simplicity, and local identity. At this location, where the quality of ingredients takes centre stage, visitors can expect an authentic and balanced gastronomic experience.

The menu opens with nonina maneštra – a warm, rustic vegetable and legume soup that evokes memories of local cuisine and provides an ideal start to the meal. It is followed by a Caesar salad, light and fresh, but full of flavour, while the centerpiece of the offer is beef tagliata on arugula – a juicy, precisely cooked steak served on a bed of fresh arugula, achieving the perfect balance of protein and herbal aromas.

The entire offer is accompanied by a selection of wines from the Šipun winery from Vrbnik on the island of Krk. This stay at Diana Steakhouse becomes a combination of elegance, vitality and wine excellence.

Restoran Za kantuni

At the Za Kantuni restaurant, hosted by Chef Miro Biondić, Taste of Vitality becomes an actual festival of indigenous ingredients, creative interpretations, and a deep connection to the Lošinj and Cres landscapes. In this intimate space of the renowned restaurant, where the cuisine is rooted in respect for nature and seasonality, visitors can expect a sophisticated yet authentic experience of island gastronomy.

The menu begins with morožin, featuring island curd —a refreshing combination of sea and dairy delicacies. It continues with bluefin tuna tartare paired with wild asparagus, which brings a raw elegance and herbal notes of the local flora. Boškarin tagliata offers an intense, meaty moment accompanied by aromatic accompaniments, while grilled young rooster brings rustic warmth and memories of traditional childhood dishes.

The crowning glory of the dinner is the peka with young Cres deer – a slow preparation of meat that sums up the spirit of the Kvarner islands in every bite. Top-quality dishes are perfectly paired with wines from Drago distribution, including selected labels from the Valenta winery and the distinctive Syrah from the Komadina winery, which further enhance the strength and finesse of each course.

An evening at Za Kantuni, accompanied by the sounds of the accordion, reveals the richness of the island's nature and cuisine, transformed into a superb gastronomic story of vitality.

Miomirisni vrt

In the magical setting of the Lošinj Island Fragrance Garden, the Taste of Vitality program begins with an experience of nature at its most fragrant. In this green corner dedicated to indigenous plants, visitors will have the opportunity to get to know the wealth of Lošinj's fragrant herbs - lavender, sage, immortelle, rosemary, hellebore and many other species that have shaped the landscape and culture of health on the island for centuries.

The program will continue with an interactive workshop led by Chef Adrijan Nikolić, who will introduce visitors to the culinary secrets of these aromatic plants. Through practical demonstrations and joint preparation of dishes, participants will experience how the scents and flavors of the island's flora can enrich every meal, from simple snacks to sophisticated gastronomic creations. In addition, we tasted the excellent Primorje liqueur, which preserves all the scents, flavours, but also the health of this part of the Adriatic.

This unique combination of education, nature, and cuisine offers an experience that transcends just a meal – an invitation to slow down, listen to nature, and rediscover vitality through the scents, textures, and flavors of the island.

Beach Bar Ridimutak

On the magical Ridimutak beach, hosted by Martin Crneković, Taste of Vitality offers a relaxed yet refined gastronomic experience, accompanied by the sound of the waves and the scent of pine trees. This seaside backdrop perfectly complements the menu that celebrates freshness, local ingredients, and a creative fusion of tradition and contemporary trends.

The tasting begins with a light and aromatic appetizer – avocado with Lošinj herbs and basil flower, which refreshes the palate and prepares it for the luxurious flavours that follow. This is followed by burrata with peach, Lošinj honey, and mint – a combination of creamy texture, fruity sweetness, and spicy freshness that captivates from the first bite.

The main course brings pulled Cres lamb in tacos – a dish that innovatively combines indigenous meat and street food form, creating a new gastronomic experience with an island signature.

Along with such delicacies, wines from the Sosich winery from Vižinada was served, whose calm and harmonious notes perfectly accompany each course. At Ridimutk, Taste of Vitality becomes a celebration of summer, freedom, and enjoyment of exceptional yet straightforward flavors.