July 21, 2022 - As Zagreb continues to become a beloved destination to visitors and a home full of life to those fortunate, the continuation of the new TCN series – exploring the thriving capital of Zagreb through the eyes of a sixteen-year-old expat – presents culinary traditions that I have experienced during my time here.
Starting from Zagreb’s popular living landmark: the Dolac Market. A crowded hub of interactions, which overlooks the main square, comprises itself of a raised open site lined with endless stalls of fresh produce. Additionally, the market's variety consists of seafood, which is set up alongside the produce in a ‘Ribarnica’, as well as red meat and dairy products, which can be found at street level in the indoor area. The impressive diversity of the domestic trading system has brought the capital of Croatia an attraction worth visiting and likely to be spotted thanks to the big, red umbrellas!
Photo: Romulic & Stojcic
Zagreb’s local economy attracts people from all over the world with its renowned traders, known as 'kumice' – who fill the atmospheric scene with delicacies and comforting commotion of distinct voices – as well as flower stands offering seasonal greenery before the entrance to the active market.
The Dolac Market, having been built between Kaptol and Tkalčićeva, has become Zagreb’s busy thoroughfare, which continues to showcase trading traditions that have been started all the way back in the 1930s.
Photo: Romulic & Stojcic
Continuing on with the famous Štrukli, the traditional specialty of the Croatian Zagorje region. The prized dish has earned its love amongst tourists and locals because it is handmade and quality, and earned its place within the local tradition. Being known as a pastry that is served as an appetiser, filling addition to soups, a tasty main meal, a fast snack or a sweet dessert, Štrukli has gained attention unlike anything else!
Moreover, in honour of the traditional dish, there has been the occurrence of Štruklijada, a special event organised in the village of Kumrovec since 2009. The event's purpose is to help promote and preserve the traditional method of preparing the štrukli pastry, which year after year is attracting ever more local and foreign guests.
Photo: Bonč/Wikimedia Commons
To reveal, when first invited to try štrukli, I was impressed by the gentle taste of the soft dough, creamy cheese, eggs, and its sour-cream sauce. The dish made a great first impression on me and made me re-visit “La Štruk” – a small restaurant serving only štrukli.
Lastly, let’s talk about the sidewalk cafes, restaurants, and bars on Ivana Tkalčića Street. Unlike the street we now know and love, Ivana Tkalčića used to be a natural border – known as the Medveščak stream – between the two settlements that Zagreb emerged from, where numerous conflicts used to arise. It used to involve brutality and hatred, while now it promotes an atmosphere of blissful days filled with laughter and relaxation. And being known as the most vibrant street in Zagreb, the local street food does have a lot to offer!
Photo: Luis Bartolomé Marcos/Wikimedia Commons
A mixture of cuisine and flavours can be found on this promenade; from oriental food to classical hamburgers, you will find everything here. But what makes this street and the dishes it has to offer extra special are the people. I find the indisputable charm of the street coming from the dynamics of the locals and the laid-back attitude of those surrounding you.
Do not miss out on the opportunity to discover the city’s distinct personality and the food it has to offer by finding out more about the culture it is exceptionally known for!
For more, check out our lifestyle section.
