Tastes of croatian tradition – a national initiative for gastronomic heritage preservation and promotion

The Tastes of Croatian Tradition project, proudly initiated and managed by DMK Vall 042 d.o.o. in strategic collaboration with numerous county and local tourist boards across Croatia, represents much more than a single event. It is a year-round national initiative whose fundamental purpose is to motivate catering establishments to actively preserve, valorize, and promote authentic Croatian gastronomic and cultural heritage.

Through "Tastes of Croatian Tradition," we not only enrich the tourism offer and create new, innovative tourism products that provide visitors with a deeper insight into the richness of Croatian tradition, but we also offer a concrete mechanism for recognizing quality and authenticity. Catering establishments that join the project and meet high criteria proudly bear the "Tastes of Croatian Tradition" standard, signaling authenticity and quality to guests. Currently, the project gathers over 100 catering establishments in more than ten Croatian counties (such as Vukovar-Srijem, Varaždin, Zagreb County, Sisak-Moslavina, Lika-Senj, and many others), and we invite all interested tourist boards and restaurateurs to join this growing family.

Content: Our role in the "Tastes of Croatian Tradition" project encompasses a comprehensive range of activities, aiming to create a win-win situation for all involved:

Establishment and Awarding of the "Tastes of Croatian Tradition" Standard: We are the originators and implementers of this unique standard. Through a transparent verification process, catering establishments receive a prestigious label that guarantees guests a daily offer of at least two traditional dishes with a side dish and at least six labels of local drinks. Crucially, dishes are prepared from indigenous ingredients and according to traditional recipes, with allowed creative interpretation. This directly motivates restaurants to preserve gastronomic heritage. Join us and become a recognizable symbol of authentic Croatian gastronomy!
Research and Valorization of Traditional Products and Recipes: We continuously conduct detailed research to identify, document, and valorize authentic gastronomic products, old recipes, and customs specific to individual Croatian regions. We actively collaborate with local producers, artisans, and associations, thereby supporting and stimulating the local economy.
"Days of Tastes of Croatian Tradition" – A Culinary Manifestation of Authenticity: Although the project is year-round, its highlight is the special culinary manifestation "Days of Tastes of Croatian Tradition". During this special period, all standard-bearing restaurants offer specially designed traditional three-course menus at special, promotional prices. This is an opportunity for guests to experience a unique festival of regional flavors, and for restaurants, an ideal period for increasing foot traffic and promoting their offerings.
Development of Eno-Gastronomic Tourism and Strong Networking: We actively encourage networking among catering establishments, producers, travel agencies, and tourist boards throughout Croatia. Our goal is joint market positioning and a more substantial development of eno-gastronomic tourism, by creating thematic routes and packages that emphasize local diversity and specialties. Tourist boards, network your local gems and enrich your region's offer!
National Promotion and Marketing as a Key Channel: The "Tastes of Croatian Tradition" project serves as a strong, centralized marketing channel for all involved. Through targeted digital campaigns, active presence on the okusi.hr web portal, social media, and cooperation with national and international media, we ensure maximum visibility and promote Croatia as a top gastronomic destination. Be part of this recognizable story that attracts food enthusiasts from all over the world!
Education and Awareness-Raising about Heritage: We organize educational workshops, seminars, and presentations for tourism professionals, restaurateurs, and the wider public. The aim is to raise awareness about the importance of preserving and valuing traditional heritage, encouraging excellence and innovation in the preparation of traditional dishes, and ensuring the sustainability of the project.

The "Tastes of Croatian Tradition" project is not just about promoting food and drink; it is a strategic investment in preserving Croatian identity, a journey through the stories, customs, and people that make Croatia unique. Our commitment to this project contributes to strengthening the identity of destinations, preserving national identity through gastronomy, and provides unforgettable experiences for visitors, thereby enriching the overall tourism offer of Croatia. We invite you to join us in this mission and together build the future of Croatian tradition!