Chef Mike Moore’s Flavors of the Heartland Tour…The Blind Pig’s Culinary Expedition Through Continental Croatia

Lovingly Curated by Chef Richard Gruica and Captivating Croatia Tours and The Gourmet Vacation

November 3rd to November 10th, 2024

Captivating Croatia Tours, in collaboration with The Gourmet Vacation, extends a warm invitation to join us on a week-long, gastronomic escapade in the enchanting Continental landscapes of Croatia. From November 3rd to November 20th, 2024, immerse yourself in an unparalleled culinary adventure curated by Chef Richard Gruica and our Chef-Host, the esteemed Chef Mike Moore, renowned for his culinary prowess as the mastermind behind The Blind Pig Supper Club.

Prepare to venture beyond the typical Croatian coastal experience, as we set our sights on Continental Croatia—an often-overlooked region filled with captivating history, legends, and age-old traditions. This is a land where myths and secrets are proudly woven into the fabric of daily life. Discover a fiercely preserved cultural heritage, marked by vibrant harvest festivals, traditional attire, and a culinary scene that boasts some of the most delectable offerings in Croatia.

While others fixate on the sea and islands, we'll guide you through the heartland, where you'll savor daily delights that showcase the region's diverse and flavorful cuisine. And let's not forget the wines—Continental Croatia offers a rich tapestry of wine options that we'll indulge in throughout our journey.

Join Chef Mike and Chef Richard for a holiday like no other, where every meal is an experience, every drink tells a story, and every sight is a new adventure. Get ready to Eat-Drink-Explore in the style you deserve.

Please note- We kindly ask that all guests on Chef Mike’s tour arrive in Zagreb no later than Saturday, November 2nd as we have an early start on Sunday, November 3rd. 

Saturday, November 2nd 

Culinary Connections: Zagreb Meet & Greet

Get ready to immerse yourself in the culinary essence of Chef Mike's Tour as we kick off our gastronomic journey in Zagreb! With everyone arriving at different times throughout the day, we're excited to start our culinary adventure together on Sunday. To kick off this delectable journey, join us for a pre-tour Meet & Greet—an enchanting evening designed to break the ice and foster connections amongst your fellow tour guests. It's the perfect opportunity to meet Chef Mike Moore and Chef Richard Gruica, mingle, share stories, and embark on this delightful adventure together. Welcome to the world of savory delights and new friendships!

Overnight Stay-4+ Hotel in Zagreb 

Day 1-Sunday, November 3rd 

The Blind Pig and The Gypsy Table Strike Again…

Welcome to the ‘official” start of Chef Mike Moore’s Flavors of the Heartland Tour…The Blind Pig’s Culinary Expedition Through Continental Croatia. Our culinary adventure begins at our lovely host hotel in the heart of Zagreb, where we delve into the city's history during a guided walking tour through the enchanting Upper and Lower town districts. The tour unfolds with a visit to Zagreb's iconic Dolac Farmer's Market, a lively showcase of Croatian culture and a culinary treasure trove. Guests will indulge in the finest offerings directly from the source—savor cured meats, cheeses, baked goods, and the beloved burek. With free time to explore the vibrant city center, we regroup for a unique collaboration between Chef Mike Moore's The Blind Pig Supper Club and Chef Richard Gruica's The Gypsy Table. These culinary maestros, known for hosting top-tier secret culinary events, join forces with one of Croatia's premier event gurus to craft an exclusive trifecta, blending elements from their respective projects. It's a perfect kickoff to our tour, promising an extraordinary fusion of flavors and so much more. Get ready to savor the essence of these two exceptional projects as they converge for a one-of-a-kind gourmet experience.

Overnight Stay-4+ Hotel in Zagreb 

Day 2-Monday, November 4th 

Vineyard Tales and Castle Royalty: Our Kutjevo Gourmet Escape

We will begin our journey as our private transportation whisks you away to Kutjevo, a picturesque town in Eastern Croatia renowned for its centuries-old winemaking legacy. En route, we'll pause for a delightful lunch in the Golden Valley for an authentic Slavonian meal in a meticulously reconstructed traditional homestay.

Our home for the next two nights is the historic Kutjevo Castle, dating back to 1232 and recently renovated into a haven of luxury. The castle boasts opulent surroundings and lovely rooms. Take in the enchanting ambiance before a leisurely stroll to our next destination, the Galic Winery. At the Galic Winery, one of Croatia's cutting-edge wineries, we'll embark on an exclusive tour, exploring the state-of-the-art facilities, setting the stage for a private tasting dinner paired with the wines from the winery. Immerse yourself in the rich history of Kutjevo and the artistry of Galic Winery, savoring the beginning of our gourmet adventure in Eastern Croatia.

Overnight Stay-Kutjevo Castle

Day 3-Tuesday, November 5th 

Croatia’s Titans of Wine and Tradition

Today we have an extraordinary day ahead of us as we delve into the world of Croatian wine legends. Our first stop takes us to Ivo Enjingi, a pioneer in Croatian winemaking, known for achieving the country's first Gold Medal at the Decanter Wine Awards. Prepare for an unparalleled wine-tasting experience in the depths of his extensive cellar, showcasing over 35 years of revered 100% organic wines.

Next, a short journey leads us to the Krauthaker Winery, where Vlaho Karuthaker, a prominent figure in Croatian winemaking, awaits. Enjoy a tour, tasting, and lunch featuring local specialties from Vlaho's farm, perfectly paired with their award-winning wines.

Returning to the castle for a leisurely break, we'll shift gears in the evening with a visit to Castrum, a boutique distillery crafting gin infused with Slavonian botanicals. This unique experience sets the stage for another delightful Slavonian dinner.

Overnight Stay-Kutjevo Castle

Day 4- Wednesday, November 6th 

Check-Out

Barrels and Fish Tales: A Slavonian Epicurean Expedition

Today, we bid farewell to Kutjevo and venture further into Continental Croatia. Our day begins with an exclusive visit to a cooperage specializing in crafting oak barrels for wineries and distilleries. We will discover the art of barrel production at Auric Barrels, where Slavonian oak, renowned globally, is meticulously transformed from “Tree to Barrel” from their own forests at their factory. Take a stroll through their production facility for an up-close look at the craftsmanship.

Following this immersive experience, we'll delight in the Croatian equivalent of a Fish Camp for lunch, relishing freshwater fish served family-style, sourced directly from nearby ponds. Our next destination is a beautifully renovated Habsburg Manor House in Slavonia, our home for the next two nights, blending historic charm with modern elegance.

Upon settling in, our exploration continues in Osijek, Eastern Croatia's cultural hub where we will take part in a city center tour featuring Tvrđa, one of Croatia's largest fortresses, and a deep dive into the heritage of General von Beckers. Along the mesmerizing river promenade, discover Picasso's influence, encounter the Bridge of Youth, and explore traces of Freemasonry. Conclude the day with free time, allowing you to explore or unwind as you please.

Overnight Stay

Day 5-Thursday, November 6th 

Vineyard Reverie, Grilled Delights, Danube Views, and The Black Pig Feast

Today, our journey leads us to the intriguing Antunović Winery, boasting the most awarded wines in Croatia simultaneously, an achievement that aligns seamlessly with our pursuit of the extraordinary. What makes this winery even more exceptional is its distinction as the first in Croatia founded by a woman, the esteemed head winemaker, Jasna. In the enchanting company of Jasna, and her winemaking son Branimir, we'll embark on a wine tasting journey, where each sip promises to brighten the day, refresh the night, and create beautiful memories.

Embracing the joy of the unexpected, our lunch unfolds as a delightful surprise. Chefs Mike and Richard will display their culinary prowess, grilling delectable dishes over the fire at Brzica Winery. As we savor the flavors, we'll be treated to a panoramic view of the meandering Danube River, complemented by the winery's exquisite wine offerings.

After a brief retreat to the hotel for relaxation, we reconvene for the evening's grand finale at Restoran Crna Svinja. Named after the indigenous black pig breed thriving in the region since the 19th century, the restaurant promises a unique culinary experience. Here, The Blind Pig meets The Black Pig, and our day concludes with a celebration of gastronomic excellence and local heritage.

Overnight Stay-4+ Hotel 

Day 6-Friday, November 7th

From Delightful Đakovo to Picturesque Plešivica: Culinary Delights and Tranquil Await

Check-Out

As we say our farewells to the enchanting Slavonian region, our culinary journey unfolds in the captivating town of Đakovo, home to the magnificent St. Peter’s Cathedral. Acclaimed by Pope John XXIII as the most beautiful cathedral between Venice and Constantinople, its exceptional frescoes are a treasure that we’ll have the privilege to witness firsthand. Our gastronomic odyssey continues with a delightful stop for lunch at a meat haven, specializing in pork-a fitting choice for our Blind Pig tour. The flavors are bound to tantalize our tastebuds. 

Moving forward, we will venture into Plešivica, a true hidden gem nestled in the hills outside of Zagreb. This intimate region and Croatia’s smallest wine area is celebrated for its superb sparkling wines, delightful Pinot Noirs, and distinctive “Orange” wines is our home for the remainder of the tour. Our stay is at a lovely boutique hotel in wine country. The remainder of the evening is yours to savor, whether at the bar, restaurant, heated indoor pool, sauna, spa, or wellness area. A perfect opportunity to rest, recharge, and indulge in the amenities. 

Overnight Stay-4+ Hotel 

Day 7-Saturday, November 8th 

Artisanal Craftsmanship and Winery Magic: A Culinary Finale in Continental Croatia

Our day starts off as we delve into the heart of true craftsmanship with a visit to the region's last remaining coopers. This immersive experience contrasts with our earlier exploration of Auric, offering an up-close encounter with the intricate art of handcrafting wooden barrels.

As we venture deeper into the scenic landscapes of wine country, today is dedicated entirely to the art of winemaking! Our exclusive itinerary includes a special visit to the Korak winery, a recent recipient of the Michelin Star, where Chef Bernard Korak awaits us. Indulge in an informal tasting of local products and savor their exquisite wines in a one-on-one session with the esteemed chef and his winemaker brother, Josip.

Continuing our vinous odyssey, we'll stop at one of our favorite wineries renowned not only for its exceptional wines but also for its inviting ambiance—a sensory delight that promises to elevate your palate.

As the day gracefully draws to a close, we gather for a final dinner at one of Chef Richard's cherished culinary havens in Croatia. This establishment, dedicated to local and organic products, sets the stage for our farewell dinner—a perfect culmination to our epic gastronomic journey through the flavors of Continental Croatia

Overnight Stay-4+ Hotel 

Day 8-Sunday, November 9th 

Till the Next Time…

Check-Out

Guests will gather for breakfast at their leisure, before departing for the Zagreb Airport (ZAG) via private transfer to the airport.