Gostilna pri Lojzetu – Dvorec Zemono

Chef: Tomaž Kavčič

Undoubtedly amongst the handful of restaurants that can truly claim to be the best of the best in Slovenia (and the wider region), Gostilna Pri Lojzetu has its roots in a family business that opened at the end of the 19th century. The award-winning restaurant and fourth generation chef Tomaž Kavčič have been at their current location, Dvorec Zemono, for more than ten years. Perched on a small hill in just outside of the town of Vipava in the famed valley of the same name, in addition to the resplendent architecture and original, one-of-a-kind frescoes, the 17th century Palladian palace offers stunning views of the vineyards, peach orchards and picturesque villages that cover the breathtaking valley beneath the magnificent limestone mountain known as Nanos.

Of course what you now hold in your hands is a book about Slovenia's best restaurants, and you can rest assured that the gastronomic perfection of what you find on your plate and in your glass at Gostilna Pri Lojzetu will be every bit the equal of the stunning surroundings. The seemingly always effervescent and affable Tomaž Kavčič is known across the region and beyond for his original take on Slow Food, with the menu featuring his innovative approaches to traditional local dishes - and his love for the Vipava Valley manifested on each and every plate. Chef Kavčič has been duly recognised for his culinary accomplishments, and is the first and long-time president of the Slovenian section of Jeunes Restaurateurs d'Europe as well as the winner of the European JRE Award for Innovation. If you'd like to partake in this divine gastronomic experience, make sure to book a table well in advance of your visit.