Goriška Gastronomy: A Celebration of Flavours at the Crossroads of Cultures

As the European Capital of Culture in 2025, this region will showcase its exceptional flavours to the world, where Slovenian and Italian traditions meet in perfect harmony, inspired by its natural surroundings.

At the heart of Goriška’s gastronomy lies its rich diversity. Unique dishes like frtalja with wild herbs, a simple yet flavourful omelette that celebrates the bounty of local nature, and štruklji, traditional rolled dumplings with fillings ranging from walnuts to seasonal fruits, highlight the region’s culinary heritage.

Meat lovers will delight in the renowned Šempas prosciutto, cured to perfection by the region’s distinctive bora winds and a carefully curated blend of spices.

The proximity to Italy adds an additional layer of depth to Goriška’s cuisine. Handcrafted pastas, creamy risottos and exquisite pizzas often grace local menus, enhanced by fresh, sun-kissed vegetables and extra virgin olive oil from nearby groves. For those with a sweet tooth, Goriška rožata, a velvety custard dessert, is a must-try, blending Mediterranean influences with local traditions.

Goriška’s gastronomy is deeply intertwined with its winemaking heritage, as the region is home to some of Europe’s most celebrated vineyards.

The hills of Brda and the Vipava Valley produce indigenous varieties such as rebula, zelen and pinela, prized for their freshness, minerality and distinctive character.

Among reds, merlot, cabernet sauvignon and the increasingly popular modra frankinja stand out. Wine enthusiasts can enjoy tastings at family-run wineries or explore charming wine cellars in villages like Šmartno, where each sip tells the story of the region’s deep connection to the land.

Stop the City: A Celebration of Culture and Flavours

As part of the European Capital of Culture 2025 programme, Goriška will host Stop the City, one of the region's most popular food and wine festivals. This unique event will transform the streets of Nova Gorica and Gorizia into a vibrant celebration of local flavours. Visitors can savor the finest Goriška cuisine, meet top local winemakers and enjoy culinary masterpieces in an open-air setting brimming with culture, music and unforgettable experiences.

More than just food and drink, Goriška’s gastronomy is a way of life—a celebration of nature, tradition and contemporary creativity. It embodies the values of the “I feel Slovenia” brand, emphasizing sustainability, authenticity and memorable encounters that leave a lasting impression on every guest.

Welcome to Goriška, where the Mediterranean meets the Alps, and where the past and future blend seamlessly into a land of unforgettable flavours and experiences, truly embodying the message of bringing people together.