I was born and raised in Croatia, where I developed an early love for cooking. Growing up in a small village, working hard, farming, caring for animals, and living in harmony with nature came naturally to me. However, when I moved to the city, I decided to study gastronomy to become a gastro journalist. Still, my career plans changed after my first experience working in a professional kitchen. I instantly realized the rush, hard work, teamwork, and risks involved in the kitchen, and I felt driven to become a chef.

Cooking and creating are my biggest passions and drives. Our restaurant concept, which we call “fun dining,” is far from the acceptable dining norms. We prepare honest food with a sharing plates philosophy while making it enjoyable. Sharing food with others is such an essential part of our culture. I’m all about keeping things simple, which is crucial to enjoying life. That’s why I absolutely love this tradition as a way of really connecting with others.

The kitchen is mentally and physically demanding, vibrant, changeable, and value-heavy, making it suitable for only some. However, cooking for others is one of the most intimate ways to express oneself. Creating dishes, providing people with a new experience through food, and telling your story at the table where everything begins and ends are some of the most beautiful feelings in the world.

I am grateful to work at @sopalzgb with a fantastic team of young, supportive, hard-working, and intelligent individuals who share the same goal. I believe that my responsibility is to create a pleasant and healthy family environment in our kitchen because the energy and coexistence of our small community are reflected in every dish we serve.

In the future, I hope the industry prioritizes the well-being of its workers by creating sustainable working conditions. The current norm of working 16 or more hours daily to keep up with trends needs to change.

What is your favorite street food?

A good bowl of Ramen. It cures every stressful day and hangover too. 🙂

Which restaurant or food stand do you recommend? (Different from yours) (Add its Instagram handle if possible)

Restaurant Gola in Zagreb. A great place to eat hearty food and have a glass of good natural wine.

What is your guilty pleasure?

Wine and bread. Always seeking for more.

What ingredient do you find overrated?

There is no such ingredient . I believe we should have a huge respect for every ingredient nature gave us.

What ingredient do you think is underrated?

Blue fish.

What is your favorite kitchen tool?

Knife.

What is your worst kitchen nightmare?

To loose the passion for cooking and still doing that.