The Fantastic Four in Mali Lošinj

A spectacular dinner crafted by four culinary titans served as the crowning achievement of the 14th International Taste the Mediterranean Festival held in Mali Lošinj. This premier event once again celebrated Mediterranean gastronomy, local ingredients, time -honored heritage, and contemporary culinary artistry, while fostering a dynamic exchange of expert knowledge. The festival's pinnacle unfolded on the seaside terrace on September 12, bridging the Bava and Matsunoki restaurants at five star stunning Hotel Bellevue in Mali Lošinj. Preparing dishes live in front of an audience of 130 guests, they presented an extraordinary menu titled "Nine Circles of Delight," featuring two signature creations from each master.

As the proud representative of the Kvarner region - the reigning European Region of Gastronomy – chef Vunić presented three dishes, including a dessert crafted by his wife, Tea Pecek Vunić.

The initial courses featured exquisite appetizers, starting with mackerel paired with bonito gel and miso mayonnaise by chef Curić of Dubrovnik's restaurant 360, alongside an autumn-inspired chestnut and porcini creation by chef Đurašević from Val di Breno restaurant of Srebreno city. Chef Štefan of Šibenik's Pelegrini offered a rib - eye carpaccio with celery salad, while Chef Vunić of Konoba Zijavica served a cuttlefish marinade with caramelized pumpkin and local beans. The main courses elevated the culinary narrative further with Curić’s lamb confit with fava bean cream, Štefan’s cod tripe with barley, and Vunić’s gratinierte paccheri pasta with Kvarner scampi. For the grand finale, Tea Vunić artfully paired quince, hazelnut, and tonka bean, while Đurašević unveiled his "Golden Egg" dessert, a lavish blend of carob, chestnut, hazelnut, lavender, and white chocolate.
This rich tapestry of flavors was complemented by a curated selection of President’s finest cheeses ranging from Camembert to Roquefort, five distinct olive oil blends from Rikato, Jermann wines, and artisanal spritzes from the Rossi Distillery.

The entire evening was set to a perfectly balanced, conversational soundtrack spun by a DJ. In a heartfelt touch, the organizers surprised the four maestros with custom portraits painted by Croatian born artist Veronica Joseph.

Foto by Ivan Brčić & Sandro Tariba