While Istria's breathtaking nature, and crystal clear sea fills many newspaper headlines and pages, its gourmet side still waits to be discovered. If you head over a little bit in the inland of this stunning region, you'll be in awe of picturesque medieval towns perched on cliffs, vineyards, and a rustic vibe. The balm for the eyes and a break from the hectic everyday life, that's for sure! But, what will delight every gourmet, is the little town Buzet, proclaimed the ''City of Truffles.'' Home of the world's finest truffles, this city is a heaven for true gourmands and truffle lovers. And precisely in this part of Istria, we found a culinary gem that offers a unique dining experience called Old River.

A Truffle Heaven for True Gourmands

Nestled right next to the jewel-blue river Mirna, in the natural environment of the Istrian forest that hides the truffles in her grounds, Old River restaurant must find the place on your gourmet list! From the moment you step into this Istrian gem, you will be captivated by the breathtaking views of nature, and a range of smells, colors, and sounds. Its tranquil atmosphere and refined interior offer fine dining with tasty and imaginatively served specialties.

What sets Old River Restaurant apart is its focus on traditional Istrian cuisine, using fresh and locally sourced ingredients to create unique dishes that showcase the flavors of the region. Istrian cuisine is known for its Mediterranean influences, with an emphasis on truffles, olive oil, and herbs. Old River Restaurant takes these elements and adds its own creative touch, resulting in dishes that are both authentic and innovative. The energy of each dish reflects the soul of the Mirna river, which flows right next to its terrace and gives the restaurant's exterior a unique charm.

Each Dish is Memorable

With every bite, you will be stunned by the flavors of majestically authentic treats. All ingredients used in Old river cuisine are locally sourced and organically grown. From fresh black and white Karlić truffles to the flour ground in a nearby mill to the meat from cattle that graze on grasslands, all these give every dish an unforgettable taste.

One of the highlights of the menu is Istrian pasta dishes, macaroni, ravioli, gnocchi, and fuži topped with generous shavings of black truffle, asparagus, porcini mushrooms, or homemade cottage cheese or prosciutto. And for the meat lovers, the Istrian star – Boškarin. These long-horned cattle are an autochthonous Croatian breed, considered a true gourmet delicacy. If you want to experience all this meat's intriguing flavors and incredible richness, try Boškarin carpaccio. But, of course, you will not go wrong if you choose equally impressive high-quality aged steak. The Boškarin steak will be prepared in front of you, on the embers of the fireplace.

To complement the delicious food, Old River Restaurant has an extensive wine list that includes some of the best wines from the Istrian region. From crisp white wines to full-bodied reds, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Magical Location Near All the Attractions

In addition to its excellent food and wine, Old River restaurant stands out with its location. Visit the medieval town Motovun, or the path ''7 Waterfalls''. If you love an adventure, go on a truffle hunting tour; likewise, if you need a bit of pampering, visit Istrian hot springs.

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Old River Restaurant is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Istria. With its focus on traditional Istrian cuisine, stunning location, and top-notch service, it's no wonder this charming restaurant has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike. So how about booking your table today and embarking on a culinary journey through the flavors of Istria?