Rijeka, a city of rich history and cultural diversity, has recently introduced an innovative gastronomic initiative that tells the story of the city and its surroundings through flavors. The project "Gastronomija Rijeke i Riječkog prstena" aims to connect local history with culinary offerings, providing visitors with a unique experience that combines tradition and modernity.

Projekt "Gastronomija Rijeke i Riječkog prstena"

Within this project, "Riječke kockice" have been introduced, an innovative concept of small dishes that reflect different periods of Rijeka's history through their ingredients and preparation. Each cube uses local ingredients and spices, telling a story of the city's rich cultural heritage. This approach allows guests to experience Rijeka's history and tradition through gastronomy in a unique way.

Brochures as guides through heritage, adventure and flavors

Along with "Riječke kockice", three brochures have been issued as part of the project: "Mozaik baštine", "Mozaik avantura" and "Mozaik okusa". "Mozaik baštine" guides through the cultural and historical heritage of Rijeka and its surroundings, "Mozaik avantura" presents opportunities for active leisure and adventures in nature, while "Mozaik okusa" serves as a gastronomic guide through local delicacies and specialties. These brochures provide visitors with a complete experience of the destination, combining various aspects of the offer into a unique whole.

Collaboration with local restaurateurs

The project has achieved collaboration with numerous local restaurateurs who recognized the value of connecting gastronomy with local history. Through creativity and innovation, they have developed dishes that reflect specific periods and events from Rijeka's past, thereby enriching the city's culinary offer and providing guests with an authentic experience.

Preparations for the European Gastronomy Region 2026

These activities are part of the preparations for the year 2026, when Kvarner will carry the title of European Gastronomy Region. A focus on authentic cuisine and local specialties is key to positioning the region on the European gastronomic map. Through projects such as "Gastronomija Rijeke i Riječkog prstena" and "Riječke kockice", the destination is preparing to offer visitors unique experiences that combine history, culture, and flavors.

Our recommendation for your ideal accommodation

• Hotel Jadran
  
  
  
  • Located right on the seashore, Hotel Jadran offers modernly designed rooms with views of the Kvarner Bay, allowing guests to enjoy a beautiful view and a relaxing atmosphere.
  
  
  • Location: Šetalište XIII. divizije 46, 51000 Rijeka
  
  
  • Reasons for recommendation: Proximity to the city center, beautiful sea view, friendly staff
  
  
  • Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, restaurant, bar, parking
  
  
  • Stars: ★★★★
  
  
  • Guests praise the hotel's cleanliness, room comfort, and quality of service. The average price per night is around €120.
  
  
  
  


• Teatro Suite & Rooms
  
  
  
  • This boutique accommodation is located in the very heart of Rijeka, offering elegantly designed rooms with modern amenities and immediate proximity to the city's main attractions.
  
  
  • Location: Verdijeva ul. 5, 51000 Rijeka
  
  
  • Reasons for recommendation: Central location, luxurious design, proximity to cultural landmarks
  
  
  • Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, air-conditioned rooms, mini bar
  
  
  • Stars: ★★★★
  
  
  • Guests highlight the friendliness of the staff, the comfort of the beds, and the excellent location. The average price per night is around €100.
  
  
  
  


• Apartmani Korzo
  
  
  
  • Situated on the main city promenade, these apartments offer modern and comfortable accommodation with views of the vibrant Korzo, ideal for those who want to be at the center of urban events.
  
  
  • Location: Korzo 2, 51000 Rijeka
  
  
  • Reasons for recommendation: Immediate proximity to shops and restaurants, spacious apartments, a homely feel
  
  
  • Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, fully equipped kitchen, air conditioning
  
  
  • Stars: ★★★
  
  
  • Guests appreciate the cleanliness, comfort, and excellent location. The average price per night is around €80.
  
  
  
  

These accommodations offer diverse options for Rijeka visitors, enabling them to choose the ideal stay according to their wishes and needs, and to fully experience everything this city has to offer.

Festival of Flavors: WineRi

As part of promoting gastronomy and enological traditions, the Rijeka Tourist Board has announced participation in the WineRi festival, which will be held in Exportdrvo from March 21 to 22. This prestigious wine event will bring together leading wine producers and restaurateurs from the region, and visitors will have the opportunity to taste indigenous wines and specialties inspired by the project "Gastronomija Rijeke i Riječkog prstena". At a special stand dedicated to this project, visitors will be able to enjoy a tasting of "Riječke kockice", further promoting Rijeka's rich culinary heritage.

Creativity in the Kitchen: How are "Riječke kockice" prepared?

One of the leading chefs involved in the project, Aleksandar Salević from Konobe Feral, has revealed several recipes that are already delighting guests:

• Kvarnerska pogača – stuffed with roasted pepper, tomato sauce, salted fish, garlic, and onion, this traditional delicacy represents Mediterranean flavors with a historical touch.


• Bakalar in bianco – served with crust chips and Grobnički cheese, it combines the region's fishing tradition with innovative preparation methods.


• Rigojanči – a dessert inspired by Austro-Hungarian heritage, it represents a sweet conclusion to this culinary journey through Rijeka's history.

Invitation to restaurateurs to participate

The Rijeka Tourist Board and Klub Gastronaut invite all interested restaurateurs to join the project and contribute to its development. Those who wish to participate can propose their own versions of "Riječke kockice" and join the initiative that promotes the region's authentic flavors. The goal is to create a diverse offering of dishes that will provide guests with a new gastronomic experience and encourage them to explore the region through food.

The Gastronomic Identity of Rijeka and Riječki prsten

The project "Gastronomija Rijeke i Riječkog prstena" is not just another tourist initiative – it represents a strategic step towards strengthening the region's recognizability through an authentic culinary offer. The blend of history, local ingredients, and chefs' creativity creates an experience that transcends classic gastronomic offerings and gives visitors the opportunity to discover the rich heritage of this area through flavors.

As Rijeka and its surroundings prepare for the year 2026 and the title of European Gastronomy Region, such projects confirm that the destination has much to offer. Whether it is about delicacies in top restaurants, innovative concepts like "Riječke kockice", or traditional dishes prepared with love in family taverns, Rijeka and Riječki prsten are becoming an indispensable gastronomic destination for all lovers of good food and exquisite flavors.