PULA
As a result of its proximity to Italy and its wealth of glorious coastline,
Istria has a varied, fresh and sophisticated cuisine which draws on
influences from across the Mediterranean and the Adriatic coasts. As
the largest town in the region, Pula has a wide range of restaurants
serving a refreshing selection of fresh. The fertile soil of the region
gives a distinctive flavour to the olives and grapes which grow near
to the sea and the vineyards which give the area its name for great
wine and some of the finest olive oil in the country. Istrian cooking
takes advantage of many Italian techniques so expect to find an interesting
mix of Mediterranean. Along the coast, restaurants serve brancin (sea
bass), list (sole), dagnje (mussels), vongole (clams) and kozice-racici
(prawns). According to local lore, the seafood tastes better here than
elsewhere in the Adriatic and Mediterranean because the waters around
Istria are so rich in nutrients.
Valsabbion An award-winning, upmarket restaurant
with a glorious view across the water. You’ll find innovative combinations
of flavours, some excellent fish dishes and a fine wine list. Address:
Pješcana Uvala IX/26
Phone: +385 (52) 218 033, 222 991
Internet: www.valsabbion.net
Milan A delicately lit, slightly formal restaurant attached to the pleasant
Milan hotel just out of town in Stoja. Address: Stoja 4
Phone: + 385(52)300 200
Scaletta A smart restaurant attached to a hotel right in the very heart of
town. Expect a strong wine list and plenty of well-executed Italian and Istrian
specialities Address: Flavijevska 26
Phone: +385 (52) 541 599
Vela Nera With a great view across the waters of the bay and an outside terrace,
Vela Nera is one of the best mid-range eating options in town. The restaurant
also champions local wine producers and places a great emphasis on the range
and quality of their cellar Address: Pješcana Uvala, 9.ogranak
Phone: +385 (52) 219 209
Pizza Jupiter A popular pizzeria close to the centre of town which specialises
in square slizes of pizza with a range of seasonal toppings. Address: Castropola
42
Phone: 214 333