Giaxa

The story

Giaxa Hvar: Mediterranean Cuisine in a Historic Gothic Palace

Inside the Gothic Palace

Giaxa in Hvar anchors its menu in Mediterranean traditions while operating from a Late Gothic palace built by the Jakša family in the 15th century. Stone arches frame the dining room where the kitchen prioritizes the daily catch. Tuna tartare and octopus appear on the plate, prepared simply to highlight freshness. The menu shifts with the sea, offering monkfish tartare and marinated fish alongside traditional gregada light fish stew. Croshi brings a creative twist, combining smoked tuna and scampi, while cauliflower steak addresses vegetarian requests.

Regional Recipes and Daily Catch

Regional flavors define the main courses. Scampi arrives prepared alla buzara style or grilled, weighing half a kilogram. Lobster pairs with linguine for a heavier option. Slow-braised beef cheeks simmer in pašticada sauce, resting beside a potato terrine. Beef tenderloin follows two routes, one bathed in bone marrow sauce, the other in port wine with dried plums. Island-style lamb stew finishes with mashed potato espuma. The kitchen maintains this focus across the entire Mediterranean menu.

Stone Walls and Cellar Selections

Outdoor tables capture the lively summer atmosphere. Thick stone walls keep the interior cool. The wine list runs deep. Glass options include Bogdanuša from Carić and Pošip from Korta Katarina. Red wine selections span Zlatan Plavac from Plenković and aged Veli Visko bottles. International bottles fill the rest, featuring French Burgundies like Puligny-Montrachet and Italian selections such as Tignanello and Brunello di Montalcino. A pour of Prošek from Tomić concludes the evening.