Creative Cuisine of the Istrian Konoba – Workshop with Annamaria Kolić (Konoba Alla Beccaccia) at EGCI Pazin

The workshop is devoted to the Istrian konoba (traditional tavern) as one of the key places for preserving traditional gastronomy and adding value to local agricultural and food products. The konoba is where original flavours, old cooking techniques and the link between local ingredients, family, village and table have been kept alive for decades. Young chef Annamaria Kolić of Konoba Alla Beccaccia approaches this tradition with great respect, but also with new energy, knowledge and creativity. In the workshop she will show how to keep the recognisable Istrian taste while giving old dishes a new rhythm, more contemporary presentation and new gastronomic value. The emphasis is on quality local ingredients, traditional techniques and the idea that creativity does not mean moving away from heritage, but finding new ways for it to stay alive, interesting and relevant. Participants will find inspiration to refresh their own dishes and menus while keeping what makes guests come back. The workshop is especially interesting for cooks in konobas, agritourism farms and restaurants who want to develop a contemporary offering firmly rooted in Istria. About the mentor: Annamaria Kolić is chef and co-owner of Konoba Alla Beccaccia in Valbandon, which she runs with her husband Ivor. After studying viticulture and winemaking in Poreč she continued her culinary education at the prestigious Culinary Institute of America and gained professional experience at Valsabbion and in restaurants in Germany and South Tyrol. Her cooking is based on seasonality, respect for local ingredients and an understanding of Istrian gastronomic heritage. The workshop is part of the Autumn Workshop Cycle 2026 of the Istrian Gastronomic Education Centre (EGCI). When: Monday, 16 November 2026, 9:00 AM Where: EGCI – Istrian Gastronomic Education Centre, Gortanov brijeg 1, Pazin Price: €300.00 (€150.00 for participants from Istria County) Places: 12 Registration: via the EGCI website (egci.azrri.hr)