As summer slowly says goodbye, and the September sun illuminates the picturesque coast, Novi Vinodolski is preparing for the culinary crown of the season. The scent of the sea and pine trees will soon mix with irresistible aromas spreading from the main town square, inviting all lovers of good food to another edition of the event that has become synonymous with a supreme gastronomic experience. On Sunday, September 21, 2025, starting at 10:00 AM, Trg Ivana Mažuranića will once again become the epicenter of tastes and smells, hosting the beloved Novljanski gušti. This event, which over the years has grown into a true tradition, is the perfect opportunity to bid farewell to summer and enjoy the authentic delicacies of the Kvarner region, at prices tailored to everyone's pocket.

This unique gastronomic festival transforms the heart of Novi Vinodolski into a vibrant open-air stage, where local restaurateurs, true guardians of culinary heritage, proudly present their best dishes. Visitors from all over the region, as well as tourists who have decided to take advantage of the charms of the postseason, flock to this event to experience the essence of coastal cuisine. This year again, the organizers have made sure that the supreme pleasure is accessible to everyone, so delicious portions can be tasted for a symbolic price of 5.00 euros, desserts for 3.00 euros, while a glass of premium local wine will cost only 2.00 euros. This is the philosophy that makes Novljanski gušti special – a democracy of taste where everyone can find something for themselves.

A Rhapsody of Sea and Meat Flavors

The menu being prepared for this year's edition of the event is a true ode to the richness of the Adriatic and the fruits of the Vinodol hinterland. The offer is so diverse that even the most discerning gourmets will be faced with sweet predicaments. To start, visitors will be able to refresh their palates with a light coastal-style squid salad, prepared with just a few drops of olive oil and fresh herbs, or a creamy tuna pâté that perfectly captures the taste of the sea.

After the introduction, a dive into the very heart of Kvarner cuisine follows. Scampi and mussels na buzaru, a dish that has become an emblematic symbol of our coast, will be prepared according to a traditional recipe. Just imagine the smell of fresh shellfish and crustaceans simmering in a sauce of wine, garlic, and parsley – an experience not to be missed. For lovers of "spoon" dishes, there is a thick and aromatic anchovy brudet with chickpeas, served with corn polenta that ideally absorbs the rich juices. No less tempting are the šufigane lignje, squid stewed to perfect tenderness with young fava beans and polenta, and mrkač na saft, another classic that melts in your mouth. A special place on the menu is held by Adriatic shrimp medallions in a refined sparkling wine sauce, served with a creamy orange risotto, and sipa "iz teće," slow-cooked to perfection. For the experience to be complete, many visitors decide to spend the entire weekend in the city, and ideal accommodation in Novi Vinodolski is easy to find and book.

Although the emphasis is on seafood, Novljanski gušti does not forget meat lovers either. Domaći pljukanci, a traditional handmade pasta, will be paired with a rich beef goulash. Two dishes that testify to the cultural intertwining of this region also attract special attention. Ukrainian sarmice with buckwheat and beef bring a touch of Eastern European cuisine, while the aromatic Hungarian perkelt, a thick meat stew, will warm the soul and body and recall the historical ties of the region.

Sweet Finale and a Noble Drop

No true gastronomic experience is complete without dessert, and the sweet offer at Novljanski gušti is a real treat to end with. Millefoglie, an elegant combination of crispy puff pastry and light cream, will be served in a glass. Lovers of Mediterranean flavors will enjoy fresh ricotta served with ripe figs, while classicists will reach for the ever-popular tiramisu or pancakes. Indispensable are the homemade pies and strudels, among which the one with figs, an indigenous fruit of this region, particularly stands out. A real surprise for many will be the Medovik cake, a traditional Ukrainian dessert composed of numerous thin honey layers and a delicate sour cream frosting, a cake that captivates with its layers and richness of flavor.

All these dishes will be accompanied by top-quality wines, with a special emphasis on the labels of the local Vinska kuća Pavlomir. Located in the fertile Vinodol valley, this winery is credited with revitalizing viticulture in a region that bears wine in its name (Vallis vinearia). Visitors will have the opportunity to taste the indigenous žlahtina variety, a light and refreshing white wine that pairs perfectly with seafood specialties, as well as other quality wines that will round off the entire experience.

Masters of the Kitchen and a Musical Backdrop

Behind every dish are the skilled hands of chefs and restaurateurs who prepare these delicacies with love and passion. This year, their culinary skills will be presented by the taverns Navigare, Pod Orajom, and Hata, the restaurant Admiral, bistro Tomas, bistro-pizzeria Đir, buffet Adria, Aminess hotel Lišanj, Ekskluziva d.o.o., and the caffe bar-bistro Marnie. Their joint effort and collaboration with Vinska kuća Pavlomir are a guarantee of quality and authenticity. To help visitors get to know the masters behind these creations better, the program host will introduce the chefs and their specialties throughout the day, creating a more intimate and interactive atmosphere.

The sounds of traditional music will ensure a complete Mediterranean atmosphere. Klapa Intriga, with their recognizable polyphonic singing, will create the perfect soundscape for socializing and enjoyment in the open air. Their songs about the sea, love, and Dalmatia will fit perfectly into the atmosphere of Trg Ivana Mažuranića, making this event a feast for all the senses. Visitors who decide to use this event as a reason for an extended stay can explore the rich offer of apartments and hotels in Novi Vinodolski and thus round off the end of summer in the best possible way.

Novljanski gušti is more than just a food festival; it is a celebration of local identity, tradition, and community. It is an event that brings people together, promotes the richness of domestic flavors, and creates a unique, relaxed atmosphere. Therefore, mark Sunday, September 21, in your calendars. Gather your family and friends and join this unforgettable feast in the heart of the coastal town. The organizers, the Tourist Board of the City of Novi Vinodolski, with the support of the City of Novi Vinodolski, KTD Ivanj, and the 51+ Association, have once again prepared an event that will win you over and leave you with the most beautiful memories and tastes of our region.