The story
San Rocco is the heart of a centuries-old family estate in the Istrian countryside, restored with care by Rita and Tullio Fernetich and now run by their children. The restaurant is rooted in the land that surrounds it – olive groves, vineyards, and the rich agricultural tradition of the region. The family’s own olive oils (Leccino, Buža, Bianchera) and wine vinegar “Cavallier” appear throughout the menu, linking every dish to the estate’s history.
The kitchen at San Rocco explores Istrian cuisine through the seasons, combining local ingredients with contemporary techniques. The restaurant’s own words describe it as a journey through the flavours and memories of Istria, blending tradition with discovery. Dishes are built around the best of the region – asparagus, black and white truffles, Boškarin beef, Istrian prosciutto – and are paired with a carefully selected wine list and the family’s own olive oils. The result is a dining experience that feels both grounded and inventive.
Guests can choose between the main restaurant, San Rocco, and the more casual konoba Primizia Food & Wine. The konoba offers a modern, relaxed take on Istrian tavern fare, including wood-fired pizzas and seasonal specialities. Both spaces benefit from an outdoor seating area overlooking the park and centuries-old olive trees. The restaurant also offers private rooms for intimate gatherings.
San Rocco has earned a place in the most prestigious international gastronomic guides, including a Michelin Recommended distinction for 2026. The setting is a restored stone villa with warm wood and wrought-iron details, creating a space that feels both elegant and welcoming. It’s a place where the Fernetich family’s passion for their territory is evident in every detail – from the olive oil on the table to the wine pairing suggestions.
Recognition
Ambience
Details
History
Located in the picturesque village of Brtonigla, the boutique hotel San Rocco is synonymous with haute cuisine and a refined, authentic ambience. The restaurant’s charming outdoor terrace is a true green oasis of peace, where guests can enjoy the tastes and smells of the Istrian fine-dining inspired by tradition. In the dishes prepared by chef Floriana Ružić you will always find the original Istrian ingredients presented in a creative and skilful manner, while the menu is subject to change, depending on the seasonal offer. So, in addition to the à la carte selection, you can try a shorter or a longer tasting menu. We recommend completing the experience with the wine pairing, since San Rocco has a rich and expertly composed wine list with 300 labels of Croatian and international wines, sparkling wines and champagnes. We chose the shorter version of the five-course menu. The creative amuse-bouche, a cannolo with cottage cheese and prosciutto, truffles and fish chips was a delicious overture to the other dishes. We were the most impressed by the cappuccino of truffle, cuttlefish and mashed potatoes, an incredibly rich combination of flavours and textures. The same with the lamb cooked for 24 hours at a low temperature, served with homemade salsa, strips of crispy leek and butter-fried porcini mushrooms. We rounded off our lunch with a refreshing peach sorbet and hazelnut mousse, served with lime sorbet and vanilla ice cream. San Rocco is one of the best truffle restaurants in Istria, especially during the white truffle season, in October, when the entire menu is dedicated to this precious food. You shouldn’t miss it!
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