The idea of eating a bear might seem strange initially; however, bear meat is a true delicacy enjoyed by many in the hunting world. In Croatia, you will often find this unusual dark red meat on the menus of the two mountainous regions, Gorski Kotar and Lika. Both regions have a long hunting tradition, and they really know have to make a good bear steak!

A Little Treasure in Gorski Kotar – Bijela Ruža (White Rose) Restaurant

Just an hour and a half drive from the capital city of Zagreb, and a half hour from the industrial sea city of Rijeka, Ravna Gora not only stands out with its beauty but also with the most delicious bear delicacies. From the famous bear prosciutto and salami to bear stew and the most delicious bear steak, you will be served with the best of the bests. There are several restaurants in Ravna Gora where you can try these specialties, but we were particularly impressed by the restaurant Bijela Ruža. With a vast knowledge of bears and bear meat and recipes passed from one generation to another, Bijela Ruža restaurant in Ravna Gora takes this unusual meat to another level. Opened in 1968, the restaurant serves delicious traditional dishes that any true gourmet describes as masterpieces. Local quality ingredients, such as mushrooms and forest fruits, are paired with dark red bear meat that melts in the mouth, creating a symphony of flavors. And here is where you can see Bijela Ruža's quality and knowledge! Bear meat is definitely not easy to prepare, especially the steaks. But the Bijela Ruža restaurant team are real professionals in that! Their steaks are soft yet rich in flavors. Perfection!

What Does Bear Meat Taste Like?

You have asked this question several times since reading the article. So what does bear meat taste like? Many compare it to beef, but the taste is still much more pungent. The texture of the meat and the taste depend on many factors: from the time of year when the bear was hunted to what food the bear ate last. But most of the time, the meat is sweet and tender, and the color is dark red

‍

Which Bear Meat Dishes to Try in Bijela Ruža Restaurant?

This charming restaurant in Ravna Gora offers a palette of dishes where the bear meat is a shining star. From bear stew that will warm you up in a second, to the soft and tender bear steaks in blueberry sauce, cranberry sauce, raspberry sauce, mushroom sauce, and 'hunting' sauce, to the traditional bear prosciutto. Every dish has its own charm and one-of-a-kind taste. So, we are sure, here, every guest will find something interesting for their taste buds. Did somebody say dessert? You can't leave Gorski Kotar without trying their famous blueberry strudel! It will round up the whole lunch in a new, deliciously sweet way.

Bijela Ruža restaurant also offers many game dishes, fish dishes, soups, salads, desserts, and a la carte dishes.

If you are intrigued by the idea of eating a bear, go to the Bijela Ruža restaurant in the heart of Gorski Kotar in Croatia, and take a big delicious bite. You won't be disappointed, trust us! Go to the restaurant's website, check out their menu, and reserve a table for a unique and exciting gastronomic experience!

‍