The world of artisan baking in Croatia, based on top-quality ingredients, patience and the skill of handcrafting, has recently gained a new, important center in Kvarner. On the island of Krk, to the delight of locals and tourists, the first true artisan bakery has opened, bringing with it aromas and flavors that had so far been missing from the island‘s gastronomic scene.
This is the Pier bakery, a project launched by owner Natalija Mrakovčić and her mother Jelena, sharing a passion for baking. Natalija brings rich experience gained in esteemed kitchens such as the Boškinac restaurant in Novalja on Pag, the Nebo restaurant in Rijeka, and the Noel Bread & Deli bakery in Zagreb. The bakery‘s name - Pier - carries a symbolic story, as it is the name of their starter, a natural yeast two years old, which forms the base of every bread that comes out of their oven.
Based on long fermentation processes, the bread selection includes classics such as wheat and baguette, but also more imaginative varieties like corn bread, buckwheat bread with walnuts and carob, and soft milk bread with fermented buttermilk. Every product, she tells us, reflects dedication to detail and a deep understanding of the process.
The bakery‘s special pride, she continues, is the handmade puff pastry, a technique that requires exceptional precision. From it come classic croissants, almond versions, as well as creative combinations like croissants filled with vanilla and strawberry cream, whose recipe also includes praliné paste made from leftover croissants, respecting a no-waste approach.
The offer also features a puff pastry walnut roll with a walnut liqueur glaze, a modern interpretation of a traditional flavor.
The foundation of this Krk bakery‘s philosophy lies in the uncompromising selection of ingredients, from French butter and Italian flours to dairy products from the local producer Veronika. This approach represents a welcome departure from bakery products with excessive amounts of instant yeast and lower quality flour. Also on offer are homemade jams and ready-made sandwiches.
The arrival of Pier Bakery on and in Krk is not just good news, but also a significant step forward for the island‘s gastronomic offer. It shows that there is a growing demand for authentic and quality products.
There is hope that this positive trend will be recognized by others as well, so that similar artisan stories could soon come to life on other popular Adriatic islands.
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