© Sanjin Kaštelan

Stiven Vunić

Official Ambassador for Kvarner, European Region of Gastronomy awarded 2026

“I believe that the Kvarner region belongs to a group of European regions that think in a very similar way about gastronomy and share a passion for gastronomy. I am dedicated to gastronomy in a much broader sense than just cooking. For me, my wife Tea Vunić, and our family, it is a way of life, our way to respect the tradition and identity of this region.”

Stiven Vunić, Konoba Zijavica

“What the sea gives you” is not only a delicious fish and crab stew prepared at Zijavica tavern in Mošćenička Draga, but also the business philosophy of its 36-year-old owner and chef Steven Vunić, who has been patiently and passionately building his culinary empire for 11 years, next to one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. The son of one of the oldest langoustine fishermen in Kvarner is eternally inspired by indigenous dishes of the Kvarner region, a touch of tradition that gives something unique combined with modern and sophisticated approach to cuisine. His huge dedication to work earned Zijavica membership in the prestigious Jeunes Restaurateurs association and Michelin star recommandation. Although both his name and his gastronomic signature are well known in the Croatian culinary world, he wants to reach new heights. He is strict, precise, organized, and technically extremely skilled.