If there’s one thing we quickly learned in Croatia, it’s this: olive oil is taken very seriously. It’s not just something served with bread — it’s a heritage, a source of pride, and a deeply rooted part of everyday life. And on the island of Korčula, we got to experience that firsthand.
Our first stop was OPG Komparak, a local producer of honey, olive oil, and gin. We tasted their house olive oil — smooth at first, then unexpectedly spicy as it went down. We weren’t ready for the kick, but luckily, they had a spoonful of their local honey ready to balance it out. (Pro tip: honey works like a charm if your throat needs saving.)
We also learned something that stuck with us: while honey stays the same over time, olive oil is at its very best right after it’s extracted. Fresh is everything.
Check out this video of my friend, Emily, tasting olive oil over on our Instagram page!
Later that day, we visited Eco Škoj, a farm-to-table spot tucked into Korčula’s hills. At the beginning of the meal, we were offered two of their own olive oils to try with homemade bread. Both delicious. The meal that followed was full of local flavors, and even dessert carried the theme: a soft olive oil cake served with yogurt and fresh strawberries. Subtle, rich, and perfectly unexpected.
But the olive oil story didn’t end on Korčula.
In Split, we stumbled upon a medieval olive oil press in the basement of Diocletian’s Palace. Hidden among the maze of stone corridors, it was a quiet reminder of just how far back this tradition goes. The press was old and beautifully preserved.
Croatia doesn’t just produce olive oil. It lives it. And after tasting it, learning about it, and seeing how it’s been part of everyday life for centuries, we’re officially obsessed.
If you’re heading to Croatia, don’t just dip the bread. Ask questions. Taste everything. And maybe leave a little room in your suitcase.
Plan Your Visit:
- OPG Komparak: Located just outside Korčula town, often open for tastings by appointment. Try the honey too!
- Eco Škoj: A relaxed, locally-sourced meal with homegrown ingredients. Book ahead for lunch or dinner.
- Olive Oil Press, Diocletian’s Palace (Split): Look for it near the underground market area. Entry is often free, and it’s easy to miss if you don’t know it’s there.
Come back for next month’s edition of Croatia Curiosities. We’ll dive into another small but fascinating aspect of local life.
0 Comments