The last twitches of summer, bathed in the warm September sun, created the perfect backdrop last Sunday, September 21, for another, now legendary edition of the "Novljanski gušti" event. The main town square, Trg Ivana Mažuranića, transformed into an epicenter of hedonism, an oasis of scents and flavors that attracted a river of visitors, both local and foreign, eager to bid farewell to the summer season in the most beautiful way possible. The event, which had been postponed a week earlier due to an unfavorable weather forecast, met its new date in full glory, proving that the best things are indeed worth waiting for. From the morning hours, finding a free spot under the sunshades became a real challenge, and the lively chatter and laughter, mixed with the tempting aromas wafting from the kitchens, testified to the success of the event which for Novi Vinodolski means much more than just an ordinary gastronomic festival.

This event, organized with great enthusiasm by the Tourist Board of the Town of Novi Vinodolski, with the wholehearted support of the Town, the municipal company Ivanj, VIO Žrnovnica Crikvenica Vinodol d.o.o., and the hardworking 51+ Association, has become a symbol of the local community's synergy. It is precisely the cooperation with local restaurateurs that is the key to success, as they are the ones who, with their knowledge, passion, and top-quality ingredients, bring the spirit of this region to life on the visitors' plates.

A rhapsody of flavors with the signature of local master chefs

The central part of the event was, of course, the impressive array of dishes presented by eleven renowned catering establishments. The teams from the taverns Navigare, Pod Orajom, and Hata, the restaurant Admiral, the bistro Tomas, the bistro-pizzeria Đir, the buffet Adria, Aminess hotel Lišanj, the company Ekskluziva d.o.o., and the caffe bar-bistro Marnie all showed off their culinary skills. Each of them offered a piece of their philosophy, creating a mosaic of flavors that perfectly reflected the richness of Kvarner cuisine – a unique blend of Mediterranean and continental influences. The offer was designed to satisfy even the most refined palates, and the prices were extremely affordable: each gastronomic delicacy cost only 5.00 euros, which allowed visitors to try several different specialties.

Seafood lovers found themselves in a true paradise. The menus featured classic coastal delicacies such as a refreshing squid salad and a rich tuna pâté, ideal for starting a gastronomic journey. The scent of the sea spread through the square thanks to scampi and mussels prepared "na buzaru," a traditional method that preserves the succulence and original flavor of the seafood. Special attention was also drawn to "spoon dishes," such as cuttlefish in sauce with polenta and "sipe iz teće" (cuttlefish from a pot), dishes that evoke memories of our grandmothers' kitchens. Anchovy brudet with chickpeas and polenta offered a rustic yet powerful taste, while more modern interpretations, such as Adriatic shrimp medallions in a refined sparkling wine sauce with orange risotto, showed the creativity and innovation of local chefs. No less impressive were the "šufigane lignje" (stewed squid) with broad beans and polenta, a dish that perfectly combines the gifts of the sea and the land. Those who decided to spend the day exploring the accommodation offer in Novi Vinodolski could experience the authentic essence of local cuisine here.

From Hungarian perkelt to Ukrainian sarmice

"Novljanski gušti" did not forget those who prefer substantial meat dishes. Homemade pasta, such as pljukanci, was served with a rich beef goulash, a dish that warms the soul and body. Great surprise and delight were caused by dishes that testify to the cultural diversity and interweaving of influences in this region. Thus, the menu featured Ukrainian sarmice (stuffed cabbage rolls) with buckwheat and beef, a delicacy that was a new and pleasant discovery for many, and a perfectly prepared Hungarian perkelt, a dish that proves how continental cuisine fits wonderfully into a coastal setting. This diversity of the offer is another proof of the richness that Novi Vinodolski offers its guests.

A drop of pride from the Vinodol Valley

To make the gastronomic story complete, the Pavlomir Wine House took care, whose wines and sparkling wines rounded off every bite. For a symbolic price of 2.00 euros per glass, visitors could enjoy the fruits of the labor of a winery that carries a touching story of rebirth. It was the winemakers from Pavlomir, led by visionaries exiled from Vukovar, who revitalized the centuries-old tradition of winemaking in the Vinodol Valley, the former Roman "Vallis Vinearia," bringing back the indigenous Žlahtina grape variety in a big way. Their sparkling wines, like the one named "1288" in honor of the Law of Vinodol, are not just a drink, but also a homage to the rich history of this region. Every glass of their wine carried within it the essence of the sunny slopes and the toil of hardworking hands, providing perfect harmony with the dishes offered.

A sweet end to the summer story

For a sweet ending to this gastronomic rhapsody, a price of 3.00 euros opened the door to the world of desserts. The offer was as impressive as that of the savory dishes. Classics like tiramisu and crispy mille-feuille stood alongside homemade pies and strudels that smelled of tradition. The fig strudel, a fruit that is a symbol of the Mediterranean, particularly stood out. Ricotta with figs offered a lighter, but equally seductive option. A real hit among gourmands was also the popular Ukrainian Medovik cake, a layered honey fantasy that confirmed the international character of the culinary offer. With pancakes and other sweets, everyone could find the perfect bite to end this unforgettable day.

The sounds of Dalmatia in the heart of Kvarner

The entire experience would have been unimaginable without the musical background that completed the idyllic atmosphere. This was provided by the klapa Intriga, whose sounds filled the square and brought a touch of authentic coastal and Dalmatian melos. Their singing, which is part of the intangible cultural heritage under UNESCO protection, fit perfectly into the ambiance, providing a soundscape that touched the hearts of those present. Throughout the entire program, visitors were skillfully guided by Boris Novaković, who, with his charm and eloquence, introduced the chefs and their culinary creations, creating an intimate connection between those who prepare the food and those who enjoy it. "Novljanski gušti" once again confirmed that they are more than an event – they are a celebration of life, community, and the richness of flavors that this beautiful region offers, an ideal place to find the perfect vacation in Novi Vinodolski.