In the picturesque bay of Cavtat, a place whose history has always been intertwined with the sea and influences from the Adriatic, the Ankora restaurant is located. Although it has been part of the local hospitality scene since 1998 as a family establishment of the Ivaniš family, Ankora has undergone a thorough transformation in the last four years, and this season, after a major renovation, presents a well-rounded story under the leadership of the new generation.
Four years ago, the management of the bistro was taken over by Nikša Ivaniš, the founder‘s son, with a clear vision to create something different. Ankora, which over the years changed concepts from internet cafe to tapas and wine bar, got a new direction. As we learned in a conversation with the owner, the idea was simple - to offer authentic food inspired by family recipes, serve good cocktails, and introduce specialty coffee, which at the time was a novelty for Cavtat. That idea, despite initial skepticism from the surroundings, proved successful, attracting a new, younger audience, but also retaining old guests who appreciate the progress of the place.
The style of cuisine at Ankora is closest to a modern bistro. The offer is divided into three menus, for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and the dishes are based on Dalmatian and Italian cuisine, with a modern approach. The menu includes various pastas, risottos, and meat dishes, along with more specific plates such as gnocchi stuffed with shrimp and prosciutto, lamb pašticada, and tuna Wellington. The emphasis is on cooperation with local farmers and producers, and one example of such an approach is the fact that for breakfasts, such as omelets and poached eggs, they use eggs from their own small farm where they raise about forty chickens. This farm and the care of the chickens is managed by Nikša‘s mother, Nevenka.
Besides food, equal attention is paid to the drink offer, where coffee especially stands out. Ankora is, in fact, the first place in Cavtat to introduce specialty coffee, and they found a partner for this important part of the offer in Kava Family, one of the best Croatian roasteries. As Nikša explained to us, the choice was not accidental. They were looking for a partner who could provide them with consistency and reliable delivery to the very south of Croatia, and in Kava Family they recognized a similar approach to business. They offer their Brazil, which they use as the base for all coffee drinks. Along with coffee, they also offer various cocktails, some of which were created by Marino Karinja from Zagreb‘s KOI, as well as many cocktail masters who have worked behind the bar. The wine list is also not to be overlooked, mostly focused on the Adriatic coast, but it also contains a large number of wines from all domestic regions.
The success of the new concept is also reflected in the long season, which lasts from the beginning of April all the way to November. As the owner told us in conversation, half-jokingly, right after Dubrovnik, they probably have the longest season in Croatia. The great popularity that Ankora has gained in a relatively short time in its new look is the best proof that the young generation of Croatian restaurateurs certainly has something to say and show.
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