The story
Located in a restored manor house near Sesvete, Taverna 1860 delivers honest Croatian cooking. The dining room blends rustic timber beams with low lighting to create a grounded atmosphere. This commitment to authentic homemade cuisine earned the kitchen a 12.5 rating from Gault & Millau in 2026. Chefs build their menus around seasonal harvests and livestock raised within walking distance of the kitchen.
Guests typically begin with a wooden board featuring locally cured meats and aged cheeses. The tomato soup receives an unexpected lift when finished with a few drops of spicy sriracha. Pljukanci hand pasta carries earthy notes from fresh truffles gathered in nearby forests, while grilled beef remains sourced directly from regional farms. Large burgers and warm blueberry strudel with vanilla round out a menu that treats traditional dishes as daily practice rather than nostalgia.
The cellar highlights wines cultivated across the surrounding hills, paired well with crisp homemade apple juice pressed at a neighboring family orchard. Waitstaff move through the dining room with quiet efficiency and genuine hospitality. The open kitchen allows guests to watch chefs prepare hearty meals over steady heat. Every element supports a straightforward approach to food that prioritizes flavor above presentation.
Recognition