The story
On Ljubljana's Šmartinska cesta, Restavracija CUBO serves Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The restaurant has earned a Michelin Recommendation, a nod to its consistent quality and thoughtful cooking.
The menu is broad and changes with the seasons, but certain constants remain. Starters range from brancin sashimi with green chilli and herbs to a tuna tartare with avocado. Warm appetisers include buffalo mozzarella with grilled prosciutto and asparagus, and gratinated scallops with cheese and artichokes.
Risottos and pasta feature prominently. A Sicilian risotto with eggplant, mozzarella, tomato and chilli sits alongside a risotto with beef fillet and porcini mushrooms. Pasta choices include Istrian pljukanci with chicken, asparagus, broccoli and spinach, and tortellini with burrata and white asparagus. The kitchen also offers daily specials such as paccheri with beef ragù or fresh Adriatic scampi in a risotto or fine noodles.
Main courses cover both land and sea. Grilled beef steak comes with truffle paste and a homemade ravioli; lamb shank is slow-roasted in the oven. Seafood options include tuna fillet in a corn crust, sea bass fillet with roasted vegetables, and octopus baked in the oven with vegetables and potatoes. Whole fish baked in salt or in the oven is available for larger tables.
Salads are generous and varied. The CUBO salad layers chicken, lettuce, cucumber, corn, carrot and grana padano with a yoghurt dressing. A Mediterranean salad combines rocket, king prawns, cherry tomatoes and grana padano.
Desserts are a particular point of pride. The restaurant notes it is known for its sweets and has even written a book about them. The menu changes frequently, but regulars can always count on a chocolate soufflé with vanilla cream and a trio of homemade sorbets, panna cot
Recognition
Ambience
Location