Destination: Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a capital that reveals itself without effort. Small in scale yet rich in layers, it combines historic streets, riverside promenades and green hills into a city that feels immediately approachable. Baroque facades, Plečnik’s architectural legacy and contemporary design coexist naturally, shaping a place where daily life unfolds at an unhurried pace. Surrounded by countryside and closely tied to nature, Ljubljana offers a sense of balance between urban culture and the landscapes that define Slovenia as a whole.

Savor the Spirit and Flavors of Ljubljana

Food in Ljubljana reflects the country’s position at the crossroads of Europe. Alpine, Pannonian and Mediterranean influences meet through seasonal ingredients, local producers and a quiet respect for tradition. Markets, small farms and nearby wine regions play an essential role, supplying kitchens that value clarity and authenticity over excess.

Across the city and its surroundings, JRE chefs express this approach through diverse styles, from historic dining rooms to relaxed bistros and contemporary fine dining. Together, their restaurants capture the character of Ljubljana itself: confident but understated, rooted in place and open to new ideas.

Interviews

Slovenia’s contemporary culinary scene is defined by strong personalities, deep ties to place, and a willingness to rethink tradition without abandoning it. JRE-chefs play a central role in this evolution, translating regional heritage, sustainability, and personal values into distinct culinary expressions. In this interview, Ksenija Mahorčič of Gostilna Mahorčič shares how creativity, courage, and respect for nature shape her work, offering a singular perspective rooted in the Karst landscape.

Ksenija Mahorčič: Creativity Beyond the Frame

At Gostilna Mahorčič in the village of Rodik, Ksenija Mahorčič has transformed a traditional inn into one of Slovenia’s most distinctive gastronomic destinations. A Michelin Green Star holder and one of the leading figures in Slovenian fine dining, her cuisine is driven by imagination, craftsmanship, and a deep connection to her surroundings. Drawing from family heritage, years of international learning, and an instinctive need to create, she cooks with clarity and conviction. Her work shows that excellence can be bold yet sincere, modern yet grounded, and that true innovation often begins when you dare to step outside established boundaries.

Recipe

Chef Ago Špacapan of Špacapanova hiša shares his interpretation of one of Slovenia’s most emblematic dishes: štruklji. Rooted in centuries of culinary tradition, this recipe reflects the enduring importance of heritage cooking while allowing room for refinement, personal expression, and contemporary technique.

A Contemporary Take on a Slovenian Classic

This dish brings together the comforting core of traditional rolled dumplings with carefully considered modern elements. Creamy filling, gentle herbal notes, and precise preparation form the foundation, while rhubarb, hazelnuts, and coffee caviar introduce contrast and freshness. Designed to be prepared at home, the recipe offers insight into how a deeply familiar dish can be reimagined without losing its soul, honoring tradition through thoughtful evolution rather than reinvention.