Last week, Team PARTNER packed our bags and headed east. Our final destination? Šibenik, Croatia. Our goal? Help our clients produce a unique culinary event in 2018. From fortresses to cathedrals to a world-famous winery, we had first class access to the culture and traditions of this historic coastal town. What were the highlights? Keep on reading!
One cannot visit Šibenik without seeing at least one of the four historic fortresses sprinkled throughout the city. Looking for a view of Šibenik from the water? St. Nicholas Fortress (pictured below, top left), located on the island Ljuljevacat, is the fortress for you. You want a view of the Kornati Islands? St. Michael's Fortress (pictured below, top right) might be right for you, perched on a steep hill above the old historic center. Oh, you want a view of both the city and the islands with a little bit of tech involved? Barone Fortress (pictured below, bottom left) offers an AR experience, cannons (cannon balls included!) and views of both the city and Kornati Islands. Still not satisfied? St. John Fortress (pictured below, bottom right) opens in 2019 after a €6.7M revitalization project.
We headed for the hills above Skradin, past Krka National Park to the village of Plastovo, arriving at world-famous BIBICh Winery as the sun was setting. Welcomed by owner Alen Bibić with a glass of BIBICh Brut Rosé, we explored the grounds (pictured below, left) with a quick peek in the cellar (pictured below, right) before settling in the tasting room. Chin Chin (Cheers in Croatian)! Like many family gatherings around a table (with wine!), we heard stories of Croatian's strong history and traditions, learned why BIBICh named their wine "Debit", and why "eating with a spoon" is a tradition we can get behind!
With our new knowledge of Šibenik's culture and tradition fresh in our minds the planning phase began. What better place to hunker down with our laptops and ideas than Croatia's number one restaurant, Pelegrini. The day started, as many should, with an espresso surrounded by history at the old Public Town cistern, Four Wells (pictured below, top left). When it was time for a creative break, Chef Rudi Štefan took us on a personal tour of the city he calls home (we love the street named "Steep Steps"!). Lucky for us, he also shared his kitchen with us throughout the day! Seriously guys, squid ink gnocchi (pictured below, top right), monkfish tripe (pictured below, bottom left) and the some of the best olive oil we have ever had! We ended the night with a picturesque toast in front of the Cathedral of St. James (pictured below, bottom right) followed by a delicious dinner with some exceptional and rare wine.
Learning about Šibenik's culture and tradition and experiencing their generous hospitality during this trip was unforgettable. We are so excited to be working with such a dedicated group to produce an innovative and delicious event. We can't wait to share more details with you soon! Hey, we may even see you in Croatia in 2018!
Može!
-Team PARTNER
