They say the way to a man's heart lies through his stomach. So if cooking is not really your thing, just bring him to Rovinj and let the local food do all the work for you.
Honestly, food is one of the best parts of being in Istria. Whether it is fresh seafood, truffles, homemade pasta, or award-winning olive oil, Rovinj is full of simple but rich flavors that stay with you long after the trip ends.
Truffles, Olive Oil, Pasta and Octopus
If you are in Istria, you must try the truffles. Whether it is black or white truffle, served with pasta, meat, or even infused into cheese, it is something the region is proud of. White truffles are seasonal, usually available from September through January. If you are visiting during that time, do not miss the chance to try them.
Olive oil is another highlight. Istria has received international recognition for its extra virgin olive oil, even ranking ahead of Spain in renowned guides like Flos Olei. The oil here is deep, aromatic, and incredibly smooth. Once you taste it, supermarket olive oil will never be the same.
If you are feeling lazy to cross the border into Italy, stay in Istria. Why not? The pasta here is just as delicious. The most famous one is fuži, a traditional Istrian pasta shaped like small folded tubes. It is usually served with creamy truffle sauce, meat, or beef stew, and it is pure comfort food. This dish is a great example of how Istrian cuisine blends Italian and Balkan influences into something truly special.
Since Rovinj is a coastal town, seafood here is a must. You can find fresh octopus, shrimp, scampi, and fish in almost every local restaurant.
If you want a really local experience, try seafood prepared "under the bell". It is called peka. This traditional method involves slow-cooking seafood, meat and vegetables under a heavy iron lid, buried in hot coal. It creates incredibly tender, smoky flavors. Important: You often need to order peka in advance because it takes several hours to prepare but it's 100% worth it!
Let's get sophisticated drunk
Red, white or bubbles? Whatever you fancy, pour yourself a glass and let Istria do what it does best... where one glass leads to two and suddenly you are ordrering your sixth glas in fluent Croatian.
If you enjoy white wine, you must try Malvazija Istarska. It is light, crisp, and perfect with seafood. If you prefer red, go for Teran. It has a rich, earthy character and pairs beautifully with grilled meat and aged cheese.
Well-known Istrian wine producers include Matošević, Fakin, Kozlović, Franc Arman, Benvenuti, Kabola, Trapan, and Rossi. Each label brings something special, and it is worth trying more than one.
Also worth trying is Teranino, a sweet liqueur made from Teran wine and blended with warm spices. It is smooth and comforting. If you are into stronger drinks, go for rakija, the traditional Croatian fruit brandy. One popular variation is Biska, which is infused with mistletoe. It is strong, herbal, and unmistakably local.
A Sweet Stop: Ombra Gelato
The way to a woman’s heart definitely lies in a good gelato even if it is not made in Italy. And let me tell you, Rovinj absolutely delivers.
Ombra - Laboratorio del Gelato is a small artisan ice cream shop that has only been around for a few years, but it already feels like a local institution. What sets it apart? Everything is made in-house, using their own recipes. No premixed bases, no food coloring, and only a touch of sugar.
Whether you go for a classic like pistachio or something more adventurous, you will notice the difference right away. It is run by a local family which makes this place even more artisan.
One thing is certain, you will not leave Istria hungry, and you definitely will not leave with your jeans fitting the same.