A unique atmosphere filled the Poreč waterfront during the last weekend of May, when Valamar's Spinnaker restaurant hosted another edition of the acclaimed series of exclusive dinners, known as Spinnaker Gourmet Stage. This time, the spotlight was on one of the brightest stars of the world culinary scene, Ana Roš. For the first time, the celebrated Slovenian chef presented her innovative restaurant concept, JAZ by Ana Roš, in more detail to the local audience and numerous curious onlookers. This exciting project, which is being created in collaboration with Valamar, will open its doors in Poreč by the end of the current year, promising a new, unconventional gastronomic haven.

Alongside Ana Roš, who captivated attention with her vision and charisma, key members of her team who will shape the experience in the future JAZ restaurant were also introduced to the guests that evening. These are Alex Iacoviello, the head chef of JAZ restaurant in Ljubljana, whose culinary skills will undoubtedly enrich the Poreč version as well, and Mensur Babača, an experienced mixologist whose cocktails will add a special touch to the relaxed and vibrant atmosphere of JAZ.

Euphoria of flavors and unprecedented interest in the JAZ concept

The fact that tickets for this special dinner sold out in record time irrefutably testifies to the enormous interest and anticipation with which the public awaits the arrival of the JAZ concept in Poreč. This Istrian town, already recognized for its rich gastronomic offer, will gain a new dimension of culinary excellence with the opening of JAZ. During the evening at Spinnaker, those present had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of flavors that defines Ana's philosophy. The carefully designed sequence of dishes began with tempting bruschettas, where the freshness of the sea met aromatic herbs. Oyster mayonnaise provided a savory depth, perfectly blending with juicy sardine, ripe tomato, and fragrant basil.

This was followed by Ana's interpretation of the classic Waldorf salad, a dish that the chef personally values greatly. This version featured crisp apples, fresh celery, and aromatic lovage oil, while semi-dried beetroot added an earthy sweetness. Walnuts provided textural contrast, and a kefir dressing rounded off the flavor palette with its mild acidity. Each bite was accompanied by a slice of extraordinary sourdough bread, a masterpiece from Pekarna Ana, a project that also bears Ana's signature and emphasizes the importance of quality basic ingredients.

The journey through flavors continued with a delicate ceviche of fresh Adriatic white fish, demonstrating respect for local ingredients and skill in their preparation. After that, a creamy risotto arrived at the tables, enriched with the sweetness of eggplant and cherry tomatoes, while burrata affumicata added a layer of complexity with its smoky note and softness, and fresh basil brought a touch of the Mediterranean. The highlight of the main part of the dinner was masterfully prepared sea bass. Its delicate texture paired perfectly with rich miso cream, sweet peas, and a vibrant orange emulsion. Earthy tones of mushrooms and the unexpected sweet-sour note of strawberries created a surprising but harmonious whole that delighted even the most demanding palates.

For a sweet ending, a strawberry and chili sorbet was served – a dessert that simultaneously refreshed and awakened the senses with its spiciness. Ginger crumble added a crunchy texture and warmth, mint granita brought a wave of freshness, and lemon curd completed this bold combination with its citrus note. It was a dessert that perfectly reflected Ana's penchant for unexpected combinations and playing with contrasts.

Synergy of food and top Istrian wines

The gastronomic experience that evening was further enriched by carefully selected wines from three winemakers who have indelibly shaped and continue to shape the wine scene of Istria, as well as Croatia. Moreno Degrassi, whose name is synonymous with authenticity, deep respect for terroir, and the production of refined wines from the westernmost wine-growing area of Istria, presented his creations. His wines tell a story of land and tradition, but with a modern approach that captivates connoisseurs.

Alongside him, Gianfranco Kozlović, recognized as one of the leading advocates of wine elegance from the picturesque Istrian slopes, demonstrated how centuries-old tradition can be successfully translated into contemporary wine expressions. His Malvasias and Terans, as well as more complex aged wines, regularly win the highest accolades. The third giant of Istrian winemaking, Moreno Matošević, is a visionary who, with his innovative approach, especially in working with the indigenous Istrian Malvasia variety, has forever changed the perception and potential of this vine. His wines are characterized by character, structure, and longevity.

In addition to current vintages that paired perfectly with the served dishes, the winemakers also brought some older, archival labels from their cellars for this special occasion. This further underscored the exclusivity and uniqueness of the Spinnaker Gourmet Stage. Guests thus had a rare opportunity to taste Degrassi's Terre Bianche from 2016, a wine that shows all the richness and aging potential of white varieties. Matošević's Alba Robinia from 2006 revealed the complexity and tertiary aromas that Malvasia can develop over the years, while Kozlović's Sorbus from the distant year 2000 was a true wine gem, a testament to time and the winemaker's skill. These wine rarities provided deeper insight into the evolution of Istrian wines and confirmed their world-class potential.

The art of mixology and exclusive drinks

The evening began and ended with masterfully prepared signature cocktails, for which Mensur Babača, JAZ's head bartender, was responsible. His creations were not just drinks, but true small works of art, designed to awaken the senses and perfectly complement the overall experience. Chef Roš also used this occasion to present "Negroni by Ana Roš", a new exclusive drink she recently launched in collaboration with the renowned Slovenian wine house Movia. This move shows Ana's versatility and desire to explore new areas within the world of gastronomy and beverages. Guests at Spinnaker not only had the opportunity to be the first to taste this unique Negroni, but each of them also received a bottle as a gift, as a lasting memory of this unforgettable evening and as an announcement of what JAZ brings.

Valamar's vision of gastronomic excellence in Poreč

Dražen Dobrila, Valamar's Director of F&B Concept Development, did not hide his satisfaction with the success of the evening and the importance of the collaboration with Ana Roš. "Spinnaker Gourmet Stage has become a true synonym for a top gastronomic experience in Poreč. Each new edition brings with it a special energy and an abundance of inspiration. Guest appearances like this, where we have the honor of hosting Ana Roš accompanied by three legends of the Istrian and Croatian wine scene, only confirm our unwavering commitment to developing an authentic, innovative, and exciting gastro scene here in Poreč," said Dobrila. He emphasized that Valamar aims to position Poreč as an unmissable destination for all lovers of fine food and wine. "Our collaboration with Ana Roš is long-term, and we highly value everything she has achieved on the global gastronomic scene. Her creativity, passion, and dedication to local ingredients are values that we ourselves nurture. We eagerly await to see all the positive effects that this collaboration will bring to Poreč and the whole of Istria, but above all to our guests who come from all parts of the world."

Ana Roš: Revolutionary of hyperlocal cuisine arrives in Istria

Ana Roš, the Slovenian culinary icon, is synonymous with being a champion of hyperlocal cuisine. Her philosophy is based on a deep respect for ingredients from the immediate surroundings, seasonality, and sustainability. It is precisely thanks to her unwavering commitment to perfection, constant innovation, and authentic approach to every ingredient that she has launched Slovenian gastronomy onto the world culinary map, attracting the attention of the most eminent critics and gourmets. Her restaurant Hiša Franko in Kobarid, located in the idyllic Soča Valley, has become a pilgrimage site for lovers of fine food, crowned with as many as three prestigious Michelin stars, which ranks it at the very top of world gastronomy.

The list of awards Ana Roš has received during her career is truly impressive. In 2017, she was named the best female chef in the world by The World’s 50 Best Restaurants, a title that definitively placed her among the immortals of culinary art. Recently, in 2024, her exceptional contribution to gastronomy was recognized again when she won the prestigious “The Best Chef Voted by the Professionals” award at The Best Chef Awards, where her fellow chefs from around the world declared her the best among the best. Her impressive portfolio, besides Hiša Franko, also includes the successful JAZ Ljubljana concept, and JAZ Poreč will soon join it, bringing a touch of world class to the Istrian coast.

JAZ: More than a restaurant – a space for enjoyment without limits

Speaking about the JAZ concept, Ana Roš describes it with special passion, emphasizing its unique atmosphere and philosophy. "JAZ is not a concept that blindly follows the strict rules of fine dining as we know them in restaurants like Hiša Franko. JAZ is conceived as my living room, as a space where top-quality food, fantastic, creative cocktails, and the best people spontaneously come together, without rigid rules and formalities," explained Roš. She added that JAZ possesses a dose of "funky" playfulness and "rock’n’roll" energy, creating a place where guests gladly come, where they feel comfortable and relaxed, and from which they simply do not want to leave. It is a space designed for socializing, sharing, and enjoying the moment.

This guest appearance at the Spinnaker Gourmet Stage was her second, and she holds both with special memories. "My first guest appearance here happened shortly after Hiša Franko restaurant became the first Slovenian address crowned with three Michelin stars, which was an extremely emotional and important moment. This second guest appearance, however, will certainly be remembered for announcing the upcoming opening of our restaurant on the beautiful Adriatic coast, in Poreč. I am extremely looking forward to this new adventure and the opportunity to present my JAZ concept to the audience in Istria," pointed out the famous chef, whose arrival undoubtedly raises the bar of the region's gastronomic offer and promises unforgettable experiences for all future visitors to JAZ in Poreč.