Rovinj, Croatia
From Michelin Guide
This restaurant occupies a beautiful building on the elegant seafront promenade of Rovinjās modern marina and is a delightful place to eat thanks to its large terrace and stunning views of the azure sea and its verdant islands. At nightfall, the church of St Euphemia adds even more charm to the setting. Simone De Lucca is at the helm in the kitchen here, overseen by Emanuele Scarello from the Michelin-two-star Agli Amici in Udine. There are two tasting menus: Rovinj and Istria (the first dedicated to fish and seafood, the second to meat dishes), from which individual courses can be chosen Ć la carte style. One of the most interesting dishes is the grilled cuttlefish with sautĆ©ed risotto, which is garnished with a vegetable sauce and decorated with a mosaic of flowers from the Istrian coast and is perfectly balanced in flavour and colourful presentation. Award-winning sommelier Kristijan HarjaÄĀ is on hand front of house with an excellent selection of Croatian wines (including by the glass), such as fragrant Istrian Malvasia, Dalmatian reds and sparkling wines from the PleÅ”ivica region.
From Visitor Experiences
First Croatian Restaurant with Two Michelin Stars
Agli Amici Rovinj is the first restaurant in Croatia to be awarded two Michelin stars, achieving this prestigious recognition within just a few years of opening in 2021. It received its first star in only three months and later elevated to two stars, marking a significant milestone in Croatian gastronomy.
Fusion of Italian and Istrian Culinary Traditions
The restaurant uniquely blends centuries-old Italian culinary traditions with the specific aromas and ingredients of Istria and the local coastline. Chef Emanuele Scarelloās tasting menusāRovinj and Istriaāreflect this sophisticated simplicity and strong personality, offering dishes that tell stories of land and sea through local fruits and flavors.
Spectacular Location and Ambiance
Situated on the Lungomare Plaza promenade between the Grand Park Hotel and the marina, Agli Amici Rovinj offers breathtaking panoramic views of the old town of Rovinj, the sea, and the island of Saint Katarina. Its terrace dining experience combines luxury with natural beauty, including remarkable views of the illuminated SantāEufemia church after sunset, enhancing the overall gastronomic experience.
From Visitor Experiences
The most honored or signature ingredients at the Michelin-starred restaurant Agli Amici Rovinj, led by Chef Emanuele Scarello, reflect a sophisticated blend of Italian culinary tradition and the local Istrian terroir. Key ingredients include:
Asparagus: Featured in standout dishes, asparagus is celebrated for its seasonal freshness and delicate flavor, often presented in refined variations that highlight its texture and aroma.
Cuttlefish: Used notably in a signature cuttlefish risotto, this ingredient showcases the restaurant's connection to the Adriatic Sea, emphasizing local seafood with a rich, savory depth.
Local Istrian produce and seafood: The tasting menus (Rovinj and Istria) focus heavily on seasonal, local ingredients from the sea and land, such as fresh fish, shellfish, and regional vegetables, which are prepared with a philosophy of "ingenuous cuisine, sophisticated simplicity, and strong personality".
These ingredients are significant because they embody the restaurantās culinary vision of merging centuries-old Italian tradition with the unique aromas and flavors of the Istrian coast, delivering a gastronomic experience that is both authentic and innovative. The emphasis on seasonality and locality ensures dishes are vibrant and deeply connected to the region's natural bounty.
Current Offerings & Prices
... Agli Amici Rovinj, the lauded restaurant by famed Italian chef Emanuele Scarello. It's a pair of tasting menus that really do the talking, from whichĀ ...
theworlds50best.com
Jun 28, 2024 ... Michelin awards two stars to Agli Amici Rovinj a first for Croatia, which has ten restaurants anointed by the experts.
timeout.com