The gastronomic scene of Istria will soon be enriched by a new, exciting concept that combines top culinary skill with the beauties of the Adriatic. In mid-May 2025, at one of the most attractive locations in Poreč, right by the sea in the Pical zone, Fogo by Bekal will open its doors. This innovative restaurant is the result of a collaboration between the leading Croatian tourism company Valamar and the duo of esteemed chefs, Tvrtko Šakota and Marko Turković, known for their Zagreb restaurant Bekal.
Fogo by Bekal is announced as a contemporary and ambitious place that will offer guests a unique experience of Istrian cuisine, placing special emphasis on authentic flavors obtained by cooking on an open fire and the uncompromising use of the highest quality local ingredients. Located right next to the coast, the restaurant is conceived as a space where guests can gather throughout the day and evening, enjoying a relaxed atmosphere and the recognizable culinary signature brought by Šakota and Turković. Those planning to visit picturesque Poreč will have the opportunity to experience something completely new.
Day and Evening Transformation by the Sea
The restaurant's concept changes dynamically throughout the day. During daytime hours, Fogo by Bekal will offer reinterpreted versions of popular classics. Guests will be able to enjoy pizzas, pastas, and grilled dishes, but each dish will carry a specific Istrian stamp. The secret lies in the use of top-quality local ingredients – from the meat of the autochthonous Istrian cattle boškarin, prized truffles, fresh fish from the Adriatic, to seasonal vegetables and herbs sourced directly from local family farms (OPGs). This approach ensures the authenticity and freshness of every plate, celebrating the richness of the Istrian region.
As the sun sets over the sea, the atmosphere and focus of the restaurant change. The evening at Fogo by Bekal is dedicated to the magic of the open fire. The evening menu is inspired by fire and smoke, bringing dishes that highlight unique textures and intense, deep flavors achieved through careful cooking on the grill. Fire here is not just a preparation method, but a key element that shapes the character of the dishes, connecting modern culinary expression with the primal technique of food preparation. This blend of tradition and innovation promises an unforgettable gastronomic journey for all visitors to Poreč.
The Bekal Philosophy in a Mediterranean Way
Fogo by Bekal is a logical continuation of the successful story of the Zagreb restaurant Bekal, which gained cult status thanks to its авторский approach to contemporary cuisine, thoughtful seasonal tasting menus, and flavors that leave a lasting impression. Chefs Turković and Šakota, known for their passion for fire, smoke, and authentic, often overlooked ingredients, are now transferring their recognizable philosophy to the completely new, Mediterranean environment of Poreč. Their approach is characterized by deep respect for the ingredient, an emphasis on seasonality, and a striving to create honest, unpretentious flavors.
„This project represents our first significant step towards the sea, and we are extremely excited about the opportunity to bring our vision of cooking closer to a new, wider audience. We are targeting guests who come to the coast in search of a top experience, but equally the local audience who knows how to recognize and appreciate quality and authenticity. At the heart of our work are always seasonality, deep respect for the raw material, and clean, honest flavors. It is precisely these values that Valamar recognized as a partner with whom we share the vision of creating authentic, sustainable, and highly personalized gastronomic experiences. We are convinced that this collaboration has the potential to create something truly special, and we are happy to be walking this path together,“ chefs Šakota and Turković stated jointly.
Wine List Inspired by Parenzana and Sustainability
The gastronomic offer of the Fogo by Bekal restaurant will be accompanied by a carefully curated wine list. Alongside renowned classic labels that satisfy different tastes, special emphasis will be placed on a selection of natural wines. These wines, produced with minimal intervention in the cellar, come from Croatia, neighboring Slovenia, and Italy, regions that share a rich winemaking tradition. The selection of natural wines fits perfectly with the overall philosophy of the restaurant, which values authenticity and sustainability.
Interestingly, the restaurant's concept, including the wine list, draws inspiration from the broader context of the Pical zone, which is thematically linked to the former narrow-gauge railway line Parenzana. This historic railway, which connected Trieste with Poreč, is today a popular cycling and hiking trail that passes through the picturesque landscapes of Istria. Referencing Parenzana further emphasizes the restaurant's connection with local history and the natural environment, offering guests a rounded story that goes beyond the plate itself.
Valamar's Investments in Top Gastronomy
The opening of the Fogo by Bekal restaurant is part of Valamar's broader strategy aimed at continuously improving and innovating the food and beverage offer in its destinations. The company recognizes the importance of gastronomy as a key element of the tourist experience and systematically invests in the development of new, authentic, and high-quality hospitality concepts.
„We eagerly await the opening of the Fogo by Bekal restaurant at the beautiful location next to Pical beach in our Poreč. We are convinced that this unique concept will bring a fresh dimension to the gastronomic experience, both for our dear guests and for the local population. At Valamar, we continuously invest in the development of innovative F&B concepts, with a special dedication to creating authentic and high-quality hospitality stories. The collaboration with renowned Croatian chefs Šakota and Turković is a perfect example of such an approach, and we are extremely satisfied with the result,“ emphasized Dražen Dobrila, Director of F&B Concept Development at Valamar. This investment will further enrich the offer for everyone seeking accommodation and top experiences in Poreč.
New Experience and New Team
Fogo by Bekal doesn't just bring a new menu to Poreč; it aims to create a completely new level of experience. The combination of a contemporary culinary approach, deeply rooted in local heritage and ingredients, with a unique seaside ambiance and an expert team, promises to become an unmissable address for all lovers of good food. The restaurant's high ambitions are also reflected in the search for new team members.
The formation of a team that will share passion and enthusiasm for creative gastronomy, sustainability, and work in a dynamic and inspiring environment is underway. Individuals dedicated to providing personalized service and creating unforgettable moments for guests are being sought. Fogo by Bekal thus becomes not only a place of top-quality food but also an opportunity for professional development in an environment that values innovation and team spirit. Everyone planning a visit to the city of Poreč in mid-May and later will have the opportunity to witness the birth of a new gastronomic star on the Istrian coast.
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Creation time: 29 April, 2025