Restavracija A3

The story

Restavracija A3 Krško | Modern Slovenian Cuisine at Rajhenburg Castle

Restavracija A3 sits within the historic walls of Rajhenburg Castle above Krško, serving a refined Slovenian cuisine that honors the Sava River's rich fishing heritage. Owner and chef Damjan Wallner brings decades of Mediterranean experience to this position where he merges his passion for the kitchen with the site's deep roots in aquaculture.

The Chef and the Kitchen

Damjan Wallner describes his approach as starting with humanity before technique, a philosophy shaped by years preparing meals for demanding guests across the globe. He runs the kitchen alongside sous chef Miha Golob, while his sister Suzana ensures the business respects the legacy of the Pavlič fish farming dynasty that once thrived here. Branka Jug maintains the operational link to this heritage, managing the connection between the family ponds and the kitchen to guarantee the quality of every catch. This partnership allows the team to source fresh water products directly, minimizing the distance from water to plate.

Regional Flavors Reimagined

The menu highlights local ingredients through precise execution, earning a score of 14.5 from Gault&Millau for its balance of origin and creativity. This recognition reflects how the kitchen handles regional cooking with both respect and innovation. Guests often begin with the signature crispy trout sphere paired with black garlic mayonnaise, a dish that introduces the evening's focus on texture and flavor. A cold-smoked trout preparation follows, layering hazelnut cream, honey, caviar, and buttermilk with a sharp concassé of Williams pear and pearl onion.

Tradition on the Plate

Warm starters showcase the versatility of classic shapes, such as žlikrof wrapped around caramelized brioche, smoked soy, and airy foam. The main course reinterprets regional staples with veal tenderloin cooked low and slow, finished with a reduced bone sauce and accompanied by čompe stuffed with cheese, pancetta, and onion. These compositions sit alongside silky cauliflower purée, proving the kitchen values substance over setting.

Room and Atmosphere

Dining takes place inside Rajhenburg Castle, which overlooks the Sava River and frames views of the Lower Sava landscape. The interior design encourages a slower pace, inviting guests to disconnect from screens and engage with the architecture built over centuries. Service is guided by sommelier Benjamin Petan, who focuses on education to complement the wines selected for each course.