There are places that are more than just tourist destinations, that provide stories that are more than products, and moments that are more than experiences. The island of Krk is one such place, rich in history, heritage and tradition, shaped by moments that reach far into the past, and by people whose hard work, skill and dedication preserve this precious legacy.
The Island of Krk Tourist Board has launched a new platform where you'll find all this and more: Krk Made, a website bringing together the best of the 'Golden Island', as Krk is sometimes called.
Krk Made is an online guide to the authentic flavours, products and places of Krk, showcasing the best of the island's gastronomy, wines and produce. It is a guide to its most authentic restaurants, konobe (traditional taverns), trattorias and hidden culinary gems. It also presents the hardworking people behind Krk's olive groves, fields, pastures and fishing traditions.
In the coming weeks, through more than 40 stories about Krk's food producers and restaurateurs, our series of articles on Bodulija.net will acquaint you with the island's most authentic food and wine venues, as well as its numerous food producers.
Our journey begins in the very heart of the town of Krk, at a small place offering unforgettable experiences.
Malo Misto, Krk
Tucked away in one of Krk's narrowest streets, among stone walls that have stood for more than 150 years, Malo Misto Wine & Dine is a place where a seat at one of just a handful of tables can take you on a journey around the world. This charming konoba offers the world's largest selection of wines by the glass – more than 400 labels from across the globe: from Croatia, France, Portugal and Italy to wine regions across the oceans. We recommend putting yourself in the expert hands of the owner Ljubomir Žderić, who will take you on a new journey with every glass.
The impressive wine list at Malo Misto is complemented by an exceptional dining experience based on four seasonal menus with a focus on seasonal ingredients. Our recommendation from the summer menu is the Kvarner scampi tartare with orange and scampi essence. Light, fresh and perfect with a glass of fine wine.
J. J. Strossmayera 3, Krk · +385 99 286 6990
Primorska koliba, Malinska
For more than four decades, just a short stroll from the sea and away from the bustle of Malinska's tourist centre, Primorska koliba has held a special place on the culinary map of the island of Krk. It has become synonymous with the very best the local sea has to offer.
The tavern has been run for 50 years by the Iskra family, who have earned the trust of generations of loyal guests through uncompromising quality, the freshest ingredients and close partnerships with local fishermen. For Krk Made, Chef Marko Iskra recommends monkfish fillet with a lemon and orange emulsion, complemented by the flavours of capers, cherry tomatoes and rock samphire.
On the terrace of Primorska koliba, you'll experience the true spirit of the coast, the island and the sea at its very best.
Svetog Apolinara 2, Malinska · 051 859 551
Nada Restaurant, Vrbnik
Perched on one of the most picturesque corners of the charming clifftop town of Vrbnik, where narrow stone streets open onto breathtaking sea views, Nada Restaurant has stood for decades. It has long since surpassed the role of being just a restaurant, and become one of the essential culinary destinations on the 'Golden Island'.
It all started half a century ago, when the tavern at Ivan Juranić's family home attracted its first visitors. His grandfather introduced them to his wine, while his grandmother offered them her homemade dishes. It is this simplicity, authenticity and deep respect for tradition that have remained at the heart of Nada Restaurant to this day.
While times have changed, the principle has remained the same: local Žlahtina white wine, olive oil, fish and lamb, aromatic island herbs and the warm hospitality that makes every guest feel at home.
We recommend that you order gnocchi with lamb ragout and let Ivan guide you through the wines of Krk and his family story. Take in the view from the terrace and don't be surprised if you find yourself planning to return here, because this is not a place you visit just once.
Glavača 22, Vrbnik · 051 857 065
OPG Dario Kamber
Sage is one of nature's greatest treasures, and we don't use this word lightly. Its fragrance is part of Krk's identity, as this plant has nourished, healed and sustained the people living on the island for centuries. This is the story of sage honey, crafted with the authentic signature of the OPG Dario Kamber family farm.
Dario's bees gather nectar from fragrant sage blossoms, not only on the sun-drenched slopes of the fertile Baška Valley, but also on the nearby island of Prvić. For part of the year, their hives stand right by the sea, where the waves meet stone, bringing back fragrances, aromas and flavours that are almost impossible to describe but which can be felt on the palate.
The story behind this honey is the story of a family whose beekeeping tradition was almost lost but which has found its way back to new generations that are just coming of age thanks to passion, dedication and hard work. Every jar contains more than award-winning honey – although there is no shortage of awards. It tells a story of grandparents and great-grandparents, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and of an island that continues to reward those who cherish it.
Kralja Zvonimira 68, Baška · 095 909 1175