The name of this interesting gourmands' destination reminds of famous Barcelona’s market, but it is something else. It is a brand new
combination of a bar, tavern and restaurant. The closest definition of
Bokeria would be
tapas-bar but
in Dalmatian way instead of Catalan or Spanish.
This establishment is located in the
very center of Split town, at the address
Domaldova 8, in the space well known among old Split residences as the
“Mikačić’s store”. That was the name of the merchant who held in his ironware store literally everything but the kitchen sink…
So, once you have found
Bokeria you would find yourself at the place where highly appreciated and rewarded
Croatian masterchef Dino Galvagno decided to offer a range of small snacks based on
Croatian/Dalmatian tradition and a touch of Mediterranean trends.
The reminder of good old days when mr. Mikačić was doing business is held through the
old hardware furniture and decorative chains which give special atmosphere to this place. What you could find on your plate would be described as tasting or sampling plates. Meat version of this cold starter (or a snack) would consist of
homemade Dalmatian ham pršut and a
selection of cheeses, all made in highlands of Split backgrounds.
Seafood version consists of smoked tuna fillets and salted and marinated anchovies and sardines. The choice of
salads ranges from seasonal vegetables and octopuses to those prepared with
organic turkey and beef. First courses abound with combinations between
fresh Dalmatian vegetables such as eggplant and capsicum which are usually stuffed or grilled, combined with
local goat and sheep cheese. The choice would not be complete without interesting pastas which origin is more likely to be from the
north Adriatic, since the masterchef and the founder of Bokeria is originally from Istria.
The menu of main courses does not include too much dishes, but those who are offered are
ultimately delicious. Unfortunately you can’t have them all at the same time.
Highlights would be
beefsteak prepared in a
dip of Mediterranean aromatic herbs and tuna/shark chops on a spit garnished with green beans and bacon. Do not hesitate to order more than one course because this tavern is in the middle category according to the prices while its quality definitely is ranked superb.
I always considered
Split as a destination to charter a yacht and
eat well, mostly because my grandma’s cuisine was unbeatable; but
Bokeria makes this town a gourmands’ destination for the rest of you who haven’t had the opportunity to taste my granny’s treats. Masterchef Dino announced another project in Split so ‘stay tuned’ and wait for the next review!
I wish you a calm sea, a fine wind and a strong mast!
