Greg Yurkovich and Sebastjan Raspopović have embraced the Italian concept of Apericena in the renovation of their restaurant—a relaxed dining and drinking experience centered around sharing food and good company. At Pop’s Aperitivo, guests can now enjoy light, authentic Italian snacks, pizzas, and pastas that even Italians rave about.
Ljubljana’s city center now offers something truly rare outside of Italy: Pizza Romana Tonda, the crisp and airy Roman-style pizza known for its light texture and signature crunch. This Roman classic, native to the region of Rome, was introduced by Greg Yurkovich, who has already earned the prestigious 50 Top Pizza Europa award four years in a row for his Neapolitan pizzas at Pop’s Pizza.
Together with Sebastjan Raspopović, Yurkovich envisioned a lively, cultural hub—a place in Ljubljana where thoughtfully curated music accompanies top-quality food made with the finest ingredients. Their goal was to create a dining experience that awakens all the senses. That’s why they introduced Roman-style pizzas, perfect for sharing, and fresh handmade pastas, also meant to be shared among guests. As always, Greg remains committed to his core philosophy: only the best ingredients for the best guest experience.
In addition to the light Italian appetizers and crisp Roman pizzas, Pop’s Aperitivo serves delicious homemade pastas, including fresh egg pasta and bronze-cut dried pasta (Pasta Trafilata al Bronzo), known for its rough texture and excellent sauce retention. Greg spent years researching and refining his pasta recipes to create the most authentic experience, just like the pasta made by Italian grandmothers (nonne). Many Italian guests have expressed their admiration and delight after tasting them.
To round out the culinary offering, craft cocktails elevate the Apericena mood, further enhancing the relaxed and high-quality food-sharing concept that inspired Yurkovich and Raspopović during the restaurant’s transformation.
