Maps Events Restaurants Cafs Nightlife Sightseeing Shopping Hotels

Ljubljana
March - April 2017

Pleniks Ljubljana
Tour the city and marvel
at the masterpieces of
Slovenias most famous
architect

inyourpocket.com Slovenia Highlights

Postojna and other
Issue N52

FREE COPY

attractions
I always book
GoOpti to get
to the airport.
Comfortable
and convenient
airport shuttle.

From:

Ljubljana
To:

Ljubljana from 7

Venice from 14

Bergamo from 28

Trieste from 9

GoOpti.com
www.argentino.si
+386 31 600 900
2017
 Contents

E S S E N TI A L
C I TY G U I D E S

Arrival & Transport 8

Planes, trains, buses, taxis and transfers

Culture & Events 11

Festivals, exhibitions, music and much more

Walking with Plenik 11

Walk with the famous architect

Old Town 21
Wander the cobbled streets of medieval Ljubljana

Where to Eat 26
Everything from A to V(egetarian)

Cafs 47
Coffee, tea, ice cream and cake in the capital

Nightlife 51
Dance and drink the night away Gourmet burger in the sun? Yes please, we cant wait for Open
Kitchen/Odprta Kuhinja on Pogaarjev trg to start up again. (Photo:
Sightseeing 57 Open Kitchen)
Bridges, museums, the castle and more
Leisure 67
Golf, paddle or escape

Families & Kids 69

What to do with the little ones

BTC City & Citypark 71

Ljubljanas shopping and entertainment Mecca

Shopping 76
Where to go and what to buy

Where To Stay 82
Business suites to hostel bunks

Gourmet Slovenia 84
A foodie destination par excellence

Highlights of Slovenia 87
The best of what to visit outside Ljubljana

directory 96
Embassies and real estate

No its not a painting from Renoir or Monet, thats just Ljubljana look- Maps 98
ing its usual beautiful self on a fine spring day.(Photo: Visit Ljubljana)

www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket March - April 2017 5

 Foreword
Though the mornings may still be frosty in early March,
Ljubljanas temperature will slowly rise alerting Mother Na-
ture to the arrival of spring. Chances are youll come across
little white snowbells growing in clusters all over the city.
This is a good sign that warmer weather and longer days
Publisher E S S E N TI A L
are on their way. Ljubljana In Your Pocket
Dont let the chill in the air stop you though, as there is still C I TY G U I D E S
Slovenska 17, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
much to see and do in our little city of wonders. If youre Tel. +386 (0)30 316 601
lucky enough to be in the city on March 11, the Welcoming ljubljana@inyourpocket.com, www.inyourpocket.com
of Spring event is a must-see, recreating the tradition of the
Director Niko Slavnic M.Sc., niko.slavnic@inyourpocket.com
handicraftsmen who once released wooden clogs contain-
ing candles into the river to celebrate the lengthening of ISSN 1855-3486
the day. IQBATOR d.o.o.
As March rolls into April, it will admittedly rain more than Printed Evrografis d.o.o.
Published Published six times per year
most of us would like, so an umbrella is a fine thing to have
on hand. This doesnt mean, however, that there wont be Editorial
any sunny days to enjoy! Soon enough the cafes lining the Editor James Cosier
Ljubljanica River will be packed with locals out for a drink Writers James Cosier, John Bills, Will Dunn, Craig Turp,
and a sharp shot of Vitamin D. Paul Steed, Yuri Barron, Andrea Jadrzyk
Design Mateja truc
Saturday mornings in the center of the city will show the Photography T Mule, D Judge, D Wedam, Tourism Ljubljana,
respect the locals have for their fresh produce as the market- Flickr, Shutterstock, Iztok Medja/Postojnska jama d.d.
place comes back to life. Its array of fruits, vegetables, snacks, Cover Photo Dunja Wedam, Visit Ljubljana
and trinkets give families a place to convene, shop, and take
time for a meal or drink al fresco (weather permitting, of Sales & Circulation Irena Jamnikar, Stanka Parkelj Rozina, Tina
course). So keep your umbrella close, but dont let a few rain- Bortnik
drops spoil what is sure to be a colorful spring in Ljubljana. Copyright notice
Text and photos copyright IQBATOR d.o.o. Maps copyright
cartographer. All rights reserved. No part of this publication
CoVer story may be reproduced in any form, except brief extracts for
the purpose of review, without written permission from the
Pleniks Arcades were built between publisher and copyright owner. The brand name In Your Pocket
1940 and 1942. Inspired by ancient Ath- is used under license from UAB In Your Pocket (Bernardin 9-4,
ens and the Renaissance, they now stand Vilnius, Lithuania, tel. (+370) 5 212 29 76). 2008-15.
as a defining element of Ljubljanas mar- Maps
ketplace. Monolit d.o.o.

about iyP
In Your Pocket, the worlds leading
publisher of locally-produced city
ESTONIA
guides since 1992, recently laun-
LATVIA RUSSIA ched a brand new smartphone app:
NORTHERN
IRELAND
LITHUANIA
in Your Pocket City Essentials. Fea-
IRELAND BELARUS turing only hand-picked venues and
NETHERLANDS
POLAND sights alongside essential travel in-
BELGIUM
GERMANY
CZECH
UKRAINE
formation, these city guides have
REPUBLIC been carefully crafted by our lo- cal
AUSTRIA
HUNGARY editors and include only the places
SWITZERLAND ROMANIA
SLOVENIACROATIA
GEORGIA
they are happy to recommend. The
ITALY
BOSNIA SERBIA
BULGARIA
app - available on both iOS and An-
MONTENEGRO
FYR MACEDONIA
droid - is free, and works offline. Go
ALBANIA to iyp.me/app on your smartphone
GREECE
to download it.
DUTCH
CARIBBEAN
To keep up with all thats new at In
SOUTH
AFRICA
Your Pocket, follow us on Facebook
(facebook. com/inyourpocket) or
Twitter (twitter. com/inyourpocket).

6 Ljubljana In Your Pocket ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

 Ljubljana Basics
Climate SYMBOL key
Temperature, C Rainfall, mm P Air conditioning A Credit cards accepted
30 150
B Outside seating H Conference facilities
20 120 T Child-friendly U Facilities for the disabled
10
F Fitness centre L Guarded parking
90
0 R LAN connection 6 Pet-friendly
-10 60 K Restaurant J Old town location
-20 J F M A M J J A S O N D 30 D Sauna C Swimming pool
I Fireplace W Wifi
Crime and safety ros, while banknotes come in 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500
Ljubljana is one of the safest capital cities in the world, euros. The Slovenian side of the euro coins are decorated
with the only prevalent crime being bicycle theft, which with among other things storks, Mount Triglav, Lippizaner
is unlikely to affect short-term visitors (which weve also horses and a Joe Plenik design.
avoided by adorning our bicycle with flowers). Nowhere in
the city is unsafe to walk at any hour, although common
sense says avoid going deep into Tivoli park in the middle Smoking
of the night. Out-of-control cyclists and negligent drivers Cigarettes can only be purchased by people over 18. Slov-
not paying attention to pedestrians are the only real threat enia recently banned smoking in public indoor places,
to safety, as well as slow-to-react automatic doors that except in special smoking areas in offices, hotels and bars.
seem to be installed in shops across Ljubljana, although
these only really cause embarrassment.
Toilets
Drinking Clean public toilets can be found at Dragon Bridge (07:00 -
15:00. Closed Sun), in the Plenik Passageway west of Zvez-
Alcohol can only be sold to people over 18, and sadly after da Park (07:00 - 20:00. Closed Sun) under Butchers Bridge
21:00 it cannot be bought in stores. (07:00 - 23:00) and at Triple Bridge (07:00 - 21:00).

Money Exchange rates

Slovenia adopted the euro in January 2007. Euro coins come
in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents, 1 and 2 eu- 1 = US1.06 = GBP 0.84 = CHF 1.06 = CNY 7.24
= 118,86 = 123.84 = 72,49 = TRY 3.31
= W 1226.5 (24.2.2017)
basic data
Population Market Values
Slovenia 2,066,797 (2011 estimate)
Ljubljana 278,789 (2011 estimate) Product Price
Area McDonalds Big Mac Meal 5.70
20,273 square kilometres Slice of pizza 1.80
Ethnic composition Slice of burek 2.00
Slovenian 83%, Former Yugoslav minorities 5.3%, Hun- Cup of coffee 1.10
garian, Albanian, Roma, Italian and others 11.7% Bottle of name brand vodka 12.50
Official languages Decent bottle of local wine 3.50
Slovenian, Italian, Hungarian Bottle of local beer in a shop 1.10
Local time Pint of beer in a pub 2.70
Central European (GMT + 1hr) Pack of cigarettes 3.50
Single bus ride 1.20
Longest river Movie ticket 6.00
Sava (221km in Slovenia) Litre of petrol 1.24
Highest mountain Taxi ride across town 5.00
Triglav 2,864m.
Borders
Austria 318km, Italy 280km, Hungary 102km, Croatia More information available online
670km ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket March - April 2017 7

 Arriving & Getting Around
Officially part of the Schengen zone since late 2007
and nearly completely surrounded by other Schengen-
agreement countries, entering Slovenia has never been
easier. With a well-developed system of buses, trains
and highways throughout the country, getting around
is also fairly easy. The centre of Ljubljana is relatively
small, meaning public transport is rarely, if ever, needed
when in town.
Arriving in Ljubljana
Arriving by plane
Well connected to the Balkans and most major European
destinations, Ljubljanas cosy little Joe Punik Airport is
26km northwest of the city, near Brnik. With a buffet-style
restaurant, free Wi-Fi for internet addicts, a couple of cafes,
bank (with ATM), currency exchange (open 07:00 - 19:00)
and post office (open 08:00 - 18:00, Sat 07:00 - 12:00, Sun
closed), it is as small and efficient as Slovenia itself. Getting
there takes about 30 minutes by taxi (35-45) or shuttle
(5-8, schedule is coordinated with flights) and roughly
twice as long by bus (4.10, up to 16 per day between
05:00 - 20:00). Check the airports website for a complete
schedule. Tickets can be bought from the driver when
boarding the bus. QLetalie Joeta Punika, Zgornji
Brnik 130a, tel +386 (0)4 20 610 00, info@lju-airport.si,
www.lju-airport.si. Open 00:00-24:00
Arriving by bus
Essentially a large caravan without any wheels, Ljubljanas
temporary central bus station could not be easier to use.
Enter through one of the doors at either end, buy a ticket at
one of the ticket offices and away you go. The bus station
operates all major national routes as well as regular inter-
national ones. Besides buying bus tickets and getting infor-
mation about bus transport, you can also get special deals
Urbana Card
In order to use Ljubljanas extensive public bus net-
work, you must first purchase an Urbana Card. What is
an Urbana card, we hear you cry? Available from the
LPP office, tourist information centres and most of the
kiosks and post offices in town, this little yellow card
costs 2 and can store up to 50 of credit on it at any
time. In order to top it up, you can do so at any of the
spots mentioned above or at the excellently named
Urbanomat machines, which are the green things
next to most bus stops. These machines accept both
cash and credit and debit cards. Once youve topped
up your card, using it couldnt be easier. Simply get on
the bus of your choice, touch the card to one of the
green card readers at the entrance and 1.20 will be
deducted from your card, 1.20 which allows for up to
90 minutes of travel including unlimited transfers. The
Urbana works in much the same way as Londons Oys-
ter Card and Paris Navigo Pass, at a fraction of the price
of course.
8 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
A Word From Our Mayor
For me, Ljubljana is the
most beautiful city in the
world - a capital unique
for its special position in
the heart of Slovenia. As a
city with rich history and
cultural heritage, it attracts
more visitors every year
from near and far. The most
important ambassadors for
Ljubljana are undoubtedly
our residents, who immerse themselves in the mix of
cultures and always ensure a touch of comfort and
warmth with their openness, kindness and hospitality.
Welcome to Ljubljana!
Zoran Jankovi
Mayor
on tickets to all major tourist destinations in Slovenia. Full
schedules and other tourist information can be found on
the bus stations website.QD/E-1, Trg Osvobodilne Fronte
4, tel. 1991 (from Slovene numbers only), +386 (0)1 234
46 00, narocanje@ap-ljubljana.si, www.ap-ljubljana.si
Open 05:00 - 22:30, Sat 05:00 - 22:00, Sun 05:30 - 22:30.
Arriving by car
Driving to Ljubljana is a joy due to the good roads and
excellent signposting. The city is circled by a ring road
from where its easy to get to the centre. Simply follow
the parking signs for convenient places to leave your car
near the city centre. Once in the city, its best to walk
the short distances rather than drive through the heavy
traffic and narrow street. Also, if youre staying in Old
Ljubljana be aware that it is largely a pedestrian only
zone.
Arriving by train
Full of nice touches such as little conveyor belts for tak-
ing heavy bags up to the platforms, Ljubljanas reason-
ably central train station is just north of the main action.
The main building has everything you need, including an
ATM and press stand selling top-up cards (but alas no SIM
cards) for prepaid SIM accounts. Left luggage is provided
courtesy of 80 coin-operated lockers with instructions in
English on platform N1, with the toilets conveniently
located next door. The centre of town is safely within
walking distances, but there are also taxis outside for the
weary.QE-1, Trg Osvobodilne Fronte, tel. +386 (0)1291
33 32, potnik.info@slo-zeleznice.si, www.slo-zeleznice.
si. Open 05:00 - 22:00.
More information online at
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
Most flights arriving at Ljubljanas airport in Brnik approach from the east, so try to request a window seat on the right side of the plane to
get some amazing views of the Alps whilst landing.
Public Transport
Although most of Ljubljanas sights are within easy walking
distance for even the most unfit and/or laziest of people (and
you can trust us as were proud card carrying members of
both groups), there is a far-reaching and fairly efficient bus
network for reaching attractions farther afield, such as the
Zoo, BTC shopping centre or even distant marna Gora, or
for those interested in seeing what the city looks like outside
the city centre.
KAVALIR
Primarily intended for use by the elderly and the
mobility-impaired, these little green electric wizards
can be hailed for free transport anywhere within the
pedestrianized city centre. Carrying up to five pas-
sengers, the little monsters reach terrifying speeds
of up to 25km p/h, so strap in tight. In all seriousness
though, the electric free taxi is another example of
Ljubljanas commitment to its ecological future. Two
cars run in summer from 08:00 until 20:00.
AIRPORT TRANSFERS
GoOpti
GoOpti, the Best Airport Shuttle of 2014 according to In Your
Pocket readers, offers comfortable and convenient transfers
to and from a number of airports. Currently it operates in
more than 50 cities, including Ljubljana, Venice, Munich,
Zagreb, Trieste and more, making airport transfers as stress-
free as possible. You cant go wrong with GoOpti. With
prices starting at 7.00, GoOptis main characteristics are
professional drivers, an exemplary safety record and a smart
and easy online booking system. tel. +386 (0)1 320 45 30,
info@goopti.com, www.goopti.com.
CAR RENTAL
The speed limit is 50km/hr in built-up areas, 90-100km/
hr on main roads, 130km/hr on highways. Cars must use
www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket
headlights at all times and must have a spare wheel, warn-
ing triangle, spare lightbulb, first aid kit and, in winter, ei-
ther snow chains or winter tyres. The alcohol limit is 0.05%,
and EU residents should be aware that any fines and/or
driving license points incurred whilst in Slovenia will theo-
retically follow you home. The traffic information centre
has road webcams and maps of current traffic problems at
www.promet.si.
Atet
QJ-2, Devova 6a, tel. +386 (0)1 320 82 30, sales@atet.si,
www.atet.si. Open 08:00 - 18:00, Sat, Sun 08:00 - 13:00.
Avant
QL1, Dunajska 140, tel. +386 (0)1 589 08 50, avantcar@
avantcar.si, avantcar.si. Open 08:00-18:00, Sat, Sun
08:00-14:00,
Budget
QD-3 , Mikloieva 3 (Grand Hotel Union Executive), tel.
+386 (0)14 21 73 40, info@budget.si, www.budget.si.
A Ticket To Drive
SSlovenia requires all motor
vehicles travelling on Slove-
nian highways to have a vinjeta
(veen-yeh-tah) sticker. This sys-
tem exists in lieu of tolls, and
the vinjeta can be easily ob-
tained at nearly all gas stations
and kiosks. Yearly/monthly/
weekly stickers are 110/30/15
for cars, 220/60/30 for larger
vehicles (ie with a height of over 1.3m above the front
axis) and 55/30/7.50 for motorcycles, with 30 for half a
year . Note that border police are unlikely to remind you
to purchase a vinjeta when entering the country, but are
likely to issue a steep fine when leaving if youve failed to
do so. For more info check Qwww.dars.si.
March - April 2017 9
 Arriving & Getting Around
Parking Garages
PH Kapitelj
The garage is only 100m or so from the famous Drag-
on Bridge and Trnica market. While there are only 261
spaces, you can normally find a free one.QE3, Poljan-
ski Nasip 4, tel. +386 (0)1 400 60 70/+386 (0)51 366
510, phkapitelj@parkiraj.si, www.parkiraj.si.
PH Meksiko
A large modern facility situated adjacent to the Slove-
nias main medical facilities and just down the street
from the central bus and railway stations. There are a
total of 624 spaces, and the ground floor is home to
a popular German supermarket.QF2, Njegoova
8, tel. +386 (0)1 600 40 38/+386 (0)51 366 510,
phmeksiko@parkiraj.si, www.parkiraj.si.
PH entpeter
Situated near the University of Ljubljana Medical
Centre at the intersection of Zaloka and Njegoeva
Streets, entpeter Parking House boasts some 500
parking spaces.QF3, Zaloka 1, tel. +386 (0)1 400
60 24/+386 (0)51 366 510, phsentpeter@parkiraj.si,
www.parkiraj.si.
PH Trdinova
Only a short walk from the Ljubljana Stock Exchange,
main courthouse and various corporate head offices,
the Trdinova Parking House has near 1200 spaces.
QD2, Trdinova 9, tel. +386 (0)1 600 40 67/+386
(0)51 366 510, phtrdinova@parkiraj.si, www.
parkiraj.si. Open 00:00 - 24:00. From 06:00-18:00 up
to 1.90 one
Open 00:00 - 24:00. From 06:00-18:00 up to 1.90 one
hour, every additional hour 2.40, from 18:00- 06:00
1.20 per hour. Daily rate 25, while monthly fees are
as low as 150-170.
Central Rent
QSlovenska cesta 36, tel. +386 (0)40 21 60 84, +386
(0)5 904 32 14, info@centralrent.si, www.centralrent.
si. Open - Available 24 hours.
Taxis
Ljubljanas taxis are safe, clean and generally reliable.
The starting rate is usually between 0.80-1.50 with
a per kilometre rate of 0.70-1.70, depending on the
company, time of day and number of passenger. Order-
ing a taxi by phone will get you lower rates for longer
distance trips.
Taxi Rondo
Qtel. +386 (0)70 900 900, info@taxi-rondo.si, www.
taxi-rondo.si.
10 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
Hopin Taxi
Catching a cab in Ljubljana has never been easier
thanks to Hopin Taxis free app bringing together tech
and taxis to provide a convenient and safe service.
Hopins taxis are all registered, you can check fares,
which are among the cheapest in Ljubljana and driv-
ers ratings are listed making the service a great way
to avoid unscrupulous drivers - unfortunately, yes Lju-
bljana does have a few. The easy to use app also gives
users a ton of options, you can choose by car type,
pick a female driver or order a wheelchair friendly cab.
Qhopintaxi.com/en
Ride like
the locals do
- Order a taxi in
16 different languages
- Get the eeimated
price in advance
- Don't ruggle with
your pick up location
Use HOPIN,
the bee way
to order a taxi
in Ljubljana
www.hopintaxi.com
Laguna Taxi
Qtel. +386 (0)31 492 299, taxi.laguna@siol.net, www.
taxi-laguna.com.
Metro Taxi
Qtel. +386 (0)80 11 90, taxi@metroprevozi.net, www.
metroprevozi.net/TaxiPrevozi.htm.
bicike(LJ)
Ljubljanas bike hire scheme, known as bicikeLJ, is a
great way to get around the city. Some 20 stations
with a total of 300 bikes are concentrated in centre of
town, so dont try riding to marna Gora or elsewhere
on the outskirts. The trick is to make sure all your trips
are under an hour, then all youll need to pay is the
ridiculously cheap registration fee of 1/week or 3/
year. Registration must be done in advance with a
major credit card on very user-friendly official website
en.bicikelj.si, which is also conveniently in English.
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

Explore the history of Slovenian industry, capital and labour, plus find out whats coming next at the City Museum. (Photo: Andrej Peunik,
MGML)
11.03 SATURDAY (17:00 20:00)
THE WELCOMING OF SPRING
The welcoming of spring, a traditional event taking place in
Ljubljana before St Gregorys Day, revives the handicrafts-
mens tradition of lauching wooden clogs with burning
candles inside them into waters as a sign of rejoicing at no
longer having to work by candlelight. According to folk tra-
dition, St Gregory brings spring, and by the Julian calendar,
his name day (12 March) is the first day of spring. The fam-
ily-and tourist-friendly event is held along the banks of the
Gradaica Canal on Eipporova Ulica in Trnovo just south of
the city centre.
17. 03 friday - 18. 03. saturday
Collecta - Ljubljana International
Collectors Fair
Ljubljanas 11th annual Collectors Fair will take place in March
at the Exhibition and Convention Centre. Bringing together phi-
latelists, numismatists, deltiologists, as well as collectors of min-
erals, fossils, old books, antique, vinyl records and pretty much
anything and everything else one could think of. Around a 150
collectors are expected to show the product of their labours to
over 10,000 visitors this year, and there will be special activities
www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket
Culture and Events
for children, included guided tours and a multi-themed chil-
drens corner. Aside from the presentation of collections there
will also be various themed exhibitions, lectures and of course
auctions. QLjubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre ,
Dunajska 10, tel. +386 (0)1 300 26 96, fax +386 (0)1 300
26 48, info@collecta.si, www.collecta.si. Tickets 5, disa-
bled and children 14 and under free.
24.03 - 27.10 Fridays
Odprta Kuhna
Every Friday from late March to late October (weather per-
mitting) Pogaarjev Trg in Ljubljanas old town transforms
into one big melting point of culinary and social excitement,
as Odprta Kuhna (Open Kitchen) takes over. Featuring the
mouth-watering gastronomic creations of many of the fin-
est restaurants throughout the country, as well as local beers,
wines and spirits, to call this Ljubljanas main event on a Fri-
day would be something of an understatement, as the event
always attracts large crowds of hungry (but not for long)
folk. A full list of participants can be found on the official
website, although after viewing the names it will be impos-
sible to stay away.QPogaarjev Trg, info@odprtakuhna.si,
odprtakuhna.si, Mar - May 10:00 - 21:00. Free admission.
March - April 2017 11
 Culture and Events
16. 04. sunday
EASTER IN SLOVENIA
Although your average Slovene is not exactly a devout ad-
herent to Catholicism, Easter (or Velika no in Slovene), is still
a major holiday in the country, and Easter Monday (falling
on 17 April this year) is a work-free day. So if youre visiting
Ljubljana at this time you can expect it to be noticeably qui-
eter than usual although depending on the weather you
may still have to elbow your way into a seat at one of the
countless cafs along the Ljubljanica river.
If you have the honour of being invited to someones home dur-
ing Easter weekend which is not incredibly likely given that its
traditionally a time for family gatherings be prepared to eat
more or less continually for three days straight, as the weekend
is informally referred to by many as the Slovene eating holiday.
One Easter delicacy you have to try is potica, a rolled cake that
can come with any number of fillings, most commonly a wal-
nut or poppy seed paste. If you cant get it homemade, its best
purchased from smaller bakeries or the central market.
14.05 sunday (20:00)
Depeche Mode
After more than 30 years in the business, Depeche Mode
have evolved from 80s pop kids through to elder states-
men of electronic music. With an impressive back cata-
logue and plenty of experience putting on live shows, you
can expect an evening of devotion, violation, excitement
and celebration at the indoor Arena Stoice.
Outside Ljubljana
23.03 THURSDAY 26.03 SUNDAY
PLANICA FIS WORLD CUP SKI JUMPING FINAL
Home to the annual FIS ski flying world cup event, the back-
drop of the Planica valley is magnificent. Awesome rugged
peaks tower all around; formed by the Planica glacier some
20,000 years ago. The jump itself comprises a fearsomely large
and heart stoppingly steep slope, stuff only for professional ski
fliers, or the clinically insane. The current world record (239m)
is held by one of the former, Norwegian Bjrn Einar Romren,
and was contested by a Finn, Janne Ahonen, whose 240m
flight ended with a fall - 2005 was apparently a great year for
breaking records here. Every year Planica is prepared for the
onslaught of thousands spectators in March. Being amongst
12 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
Traditional Slovenian Evening
The name says it all, experience a traditional Slovenian
evening in the city centre of Ljubljana. For the same
price youd pay just for dinner at many other restaurants
around town, you can see how locals live it up in their
home villages with lots of live music, a full folklore show
with costumes from different regions, traditional dances
and games, as well as a full meal. Guests are also encour-
aged to participate, and after a couple of courage-build-
ing drinks it is definitely difficult to resist the temptation.
Every guest even receives a gift at the end of the night.
In addition to their regular dinners the folks behind the
award-winning event organise other programmes and
activities on request anywhere in Slovenia. More info and
lots of photos can be found on the official website, where
bookings can also conveniently be made directly.Qtel.
+386 (0)40 363 272, www.slovenian-evening.com.
2000m+ alpine peaks, it is the only kind of setting worthy of
such an internationally prestigious ski event. QRatee, tel.
+386 (0) 51 610 944, planica@sloski.si, www.planica.si .
04.05 THURSDAY 07.05. SUNDAY
22ND INTERNAUTICA INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW
With over 20 years of tradition, the Internautica Adriatic Inter-
national Boat Show has established itself as one Central Eu-
ropes Major meeting points for marine business and nautical
tourism in the region. With its consistent search for quality
and exciting content, it is the perfect lead-in to the summer
season for boating professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Internautica showcases over 150 new vessels, with more than
200 exhibitors from all over the worls and over 500 major
maritime brands presented annually. Well over 15,000 boating
enthusiasts and maritime experts attend the boat show every
year. Visitors will be able to evaluate a wide range of new mod-
els of power yachts, sailing boats and catamarans whilst enjoy-
ing the great outdoors. Internautica will, once again, confirm
the fact that there is no better place to shop for your boat than
at our boat show, a show where you can experience a wide
range of boat types and styles all in one place. A full range of
marine electronics, sport products and accessories will also be
on display. QPortoro Marina, tel. +386 (0)1 56 55 126, in-
ternautica@internautica.net, www.internautica.net.
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

EVENTS IN MARCH
01 Helmet + guests @ Kino Siska
2 - 3 Slovenian Philharmonic Orchestra. Con-
ductor: Cristian Mcelaru @Cankarjev Dom
8 - 11 Gibanica (Moving Cake) Festival of
Slovenian Dance @ various locations
9 Kromatika Astonishing Excellence, Con-
ductor: Giedr lekyt @ Cankarjev Dom
9 - 11 12th Slovenian Biennial Of Illustration @
Cankarjev Dom
10 Asking Alexandria + special guests @ Kino Siska
11 The welcoming of spring
14 Frankfurt Radio Symphony Orchestra
(Hessischer Rundfunk Sinfonieorchester), Con-
ductor: Andrs Orozco-Estrada @ Cankarjev Dom
15 - 22 19th Ljubljana International Docu-
mentary film Festival @ Slovenska kinoteka,
Cankarjev dom, Kinodvor
17 Georg Friedrich Hndel: Giulio Cesare in
Egitto @ Cankarjev Dom
17 - 18 Collecta - Ljubljana International Col-
lectors Fair @ Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention
Centre
22 Youth to Youth @ Cankarjev Dom
23 mar - 27 aug Robert Capa, Retrospective
photo exhibition @ Cankarjev dom
23 - 24 Slovenian Philharmonic Orchestra,
Conductor: Uro Lajovic @ Cankarjev Dom
23 - 26 Planica FIS World Cup Ski Jumping
Final @ Planica
23 Slovene Octet (Slovenia) - choir music @
Ljubljana Castle
24 Odprta kuhna @ Pogaarjev trg
25 Michelle Gurevich (Chinawoman) @ Kino Siska
27 Peter Lovin: Obmoje medveda @ Cankar-
jev Dom
28 Indek: XIXABrian Lopez and Gabriel Sul-
livan @ Kino Siska
30 - 31 Slovenian Philharmonic Orchestra
Conductor: Uro Lajovic @ Cankarjev Dom
www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket
Culture and Events
EVENTS IN APRIL
1 Gipsy Kings Live Latino @ Stoice Sports
Park Arena
2 Budapest Festival Orchestra (Budapesti
Fesztivlzenekar), Conductor: Ivn Fischer @
Cankarjev Dom
5 New Zealand String Quartet @ Cankarjev
Dom
6 - 7 Slovenian Philharmonic Orchestra,
Conductor: Hans Graf @ Cankarjev Dom
7 Odprta kuhna @ Pogaarjev trg
7 - 8 2Cellos - concert of fusion, pop and clas-
sical music @ Stoice Sports Park Arena
12 Youth to Youth @ Cankarjev Dom
13 Bassless (Slovenia) - pop, a capella @
Ljubljana Castle
13 Kromatika Karizna and the Russians,
Conductor: George Peh livanian @ Cankarjev
Dom
14 Odprta kuhna @ Pogaarjev trg
16 Easter in Slovenia
21 Odprta kuhna @ Pogaarjev trg
23 Gregory Porter @ Cankarjev Dom
Buy Tickets
Tickets for events can usually be purchased in advance at
the venue, or from ticket agencies.
Eventim
Online ticket sales for more than 3,000 events per year, in-
cluding concerts, sports, and cultural events across Slove-
nia and Central Europe. Check the offer of events and buy
tickets before you even arrive in Slovenia.QB1, Celovka
25, tel. +386 (0)14 30 24 05, www.eventim.si/portal/en.
Tourist Information Centre
The helpful staff at Ljubljanas main tourist information
centre can answer pretty much any question you have
about the city, provide you with maps and countless other
brochures, and also sell tickets for concerts, shows and
various other events.QD3, Adami-Lundrovo Nabreje
2, tel. +386 (0)13 06 12 15, www.visitljubljana.si. Open
October-May 08:00-19:00.
March - April 2017 13
 Culture and Events
exhibition
27.10.2016 THURSDAY 21.05.2017 SUNDAY
A NEW AGE IS COMING! INdUSTRY LABOUR
CAPITAL
Today it is golden shopping carts that are bringing us to
the new age. In the past, privatisation vouchers, large home
appliances, self-management, games of military hide-and-
seek, the earliest trade fairs, the struggle for workers rights,
the first factories and factory-owners were likewise bring-
ing us to new ages. Industry changing the image of cities;
cities changing the lives of workers; workers changing
capital; capital changing the rhythm of life. The same proc-
esses were going on across Europe, but in Ljubljana they
occurred our way. Discover special aspects of how industry,
labour and capital developed in Ljubljana! QCity Muse-
um of Ljubljana, tel. +386 (0)1 24 12 500, info@mgml.
si, www.mgml.si.
ConferenCe Venues
CANKARjEV dOM
Located in the centre of town, Cankarjev Dom is Slovenias
largest purpose-built congress centre in terms of audito-
rium style seating. Of its 22 multi-purpose halls and func-
tional spaces, the largest has a capacity of up to 2,000 del-
egates, and the entire venue can host up to 5,000 visitors
simultaneously.QB-3/4, Preernova 10, tel. +386 (0)12 41
71 22, www.cd-cc.si.
LjUBLjANA ExHIBITION ANd CONVENTION
CENTRE (GOSPOdARSKO RAzSTAVIE)
GR, as it is known in Slovene, is the largest convention centre
in Slovenia, and is the location of nearly all of Ljubljanas major
conventions, fairs and trade shows. With 20 multifunctional
halls and rooms it can accommodate thousands of visitors,
and also has 1,500 parking spaces within short walking dis-
tance. For those arriving by public transport, it is located only
300 metres from the main train and bus stations.QD-1, Du-
najska 18, tel. +386 (0)13 00 26 11, www.gr-sejem.si.
ConCert halls
CENTRE STOICE
QL-1, Vojkova Cesta.
14 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
12. 7. 2017 / Krianke
predprodaja vstopnic: www.eventim.si
Ustanoviteljica
GALA HALA
QF-1, Masarykova 24, tel. +386 (0)1 43 17 063, www.
galahala.com.
OPERA & BALLET LjUBLjANA
QB/C-3, upanieva 1, tel. +386 (0)1 241 17 66/+386
(0)31 69 66 00, www.opera.si.
SLOVENIAN PHILHARMONIC (SLOVENSKA FIL-
HARMONIjA)
QC-4, Kongresni Trg 10, tel. +386 (0)1 241 08 00, www.
filharmonija.si.
Cinemas
Foreign films are screened in the original language with Slov-
enian subtitles, except for childrens films which are usually
dubbed. Aside from the largest blockbusters, films tend to
open with significant lag with respect to larger markets, so
dont be surprised to see posters advertising something re-
leased months earlier in you own country. Tickets cost 5-6.
KINO BEIGRAd
QL-3, Linhartova 11, tel. +386 (0)83 807 068, info@
kino-bezigrad.si, www.kino-bezigrad.si.
KINOdVOR
QD-2, Kolodvorska 13, tel. +386 (0)1 239 22 17, info@
kinodvor.org, www.kinodvor.org.
KINO KOMUNA
QCankarjeva 1, tel. +386 (0)1 241 8400, www.kolosej.si.
KOLOSEj
QM-3, martinska 152, tel. +386 (0)15 20 55 00, www.
kolosej.si.
SLOVENSKA KINOTEKA
QD-2, Mikloieva 28, tel. +386 (0)1 43 42 524, www.
kinoteka.si.
Cultural Centres
KINO IKA (URBAN CULTURAL CENTRE)
After nearly a year of renovation, one the citys most iconic
cinemas reopened its doors in 2009 as an urban cultural cen-
tre featuring several state-of-the-art preformance halls and
exhibition spaces. Dedicated to promoting contemporary
music, theatre, dance and experimental events, it already
attracts big-name regional and international artists, and is
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
 Culture and Events
scheduled to hosts around 200 events per year. Most concerts
are held in its largest multi-purpose hall, dubbed the Cathe-
dral, which can fit over 932 people. Check out their English
language website for more info and a full schedule of events.
QK3, Trg Prekomorskih Brigad 3, tel. +386 (0)30 310 100,
info@kinosiska.si, www.kinosiska.si. PHLEB

Metelkova Mesto (Alternative Culture

Centre)
Ljubljanas famous artists colony hosts a number of clubs,
most of which play thrash style music to a dreadlocked
black-clad audience of all ages. Unfortunately little of the
website is in English so it would be a case of try it and see,
but what we can say for sure is that it provides a refresh-
ing and alternative alternative to the dance music found in
most other clubs and attracts a crowd who probably care
more that youre cool as in non-judgmental than cool as
in what youre wearing and how you sip your drink. Well
worth checking-out both for itself and for the philosophy
behind the whole set-up.QF1/2, Masarykova 24, www.
metelkovamesto.org.

Galleries
BeArtAngel
This little gallery on Gornji trg in Ljubljanas old town is the
peaceful sanctuary of local artist Boidar A. Koleric, who
paints under the moniker of BeArtAngel. Koleri has spent
his life exploring creativity and life energy, ideals conveyed
in this latest endeavours. These world-renowned paintings
are said to represent unseen energies and can give a help-
ing hand in achieving inner peace. Such lofty artistic ideals
might be a little confusing, but Boidar himself is on hand
to happily explain the meaning behind the project. Hand-
made crystal water bottles are also available to purchase
here, with a wide selection of crystals and other accessories
on offer. Check the website for more information.QD4,
Gornji Trg 19, tel. +386 (0)41 764 352, beartangel@gmail.
com, www.beartangel.si. Mon - Fri 11:00 13:00, 15:00
19:00, Sat 10:00 14:00, Sun closed.

DobraVaga
One of the most unique arts venues in the city, DobraVaga
is a combination exhibition and project space, sales gal-
lery, pen artists studio and lively caf, whose programme
is focussed the younger generation of local artists. Its
name, which is derived from an old Slovene expression
meaning add a little more [to the scales], as well as its
slogan art by the pound and even its logo of a fish swim-
ming into a picture frame, all cheekily allude to both the
the overall concept behind the project and the space itself
(in the beautiful Plenik-designed arcade next to the fish
market). While the art on display isnt literally sold by its
weight, the artists work and creative process are valued
more than their name, and there is always a wide variety
of different works on display, with prices starting at less
than 10. QD-3, Adami-Lundrovo Nabreje 5, +386
(0)30 310 106, info@dobravaga.si, dobravaga.si. Open
10:00 - 23:00, Sat 08:00 - 22:00. Closed Sun.
www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket March - April 2017 15
 Culture and Events
Buy artisanal goods at the market and proper art nextdoor at
DobraVaga . (Photo Kino ika)
Aksioma Project Space
QD/E2, Komenskega 18, tel. +386 (0)590 54 360/+386
(0)590 17 010, projectspace@aksioma.org, www.
aksioma.org. Open 12:00-18:00. Closed Mon, Sat, Sun.
Jakopi Galerija
QC4, Slovenska 9, tel. +386 (0)1 24 12 500, info@
mestnimuzej.si, www.mestnimuzej.si. Open 10:00-
18:00. Closed Mon.
Kapelica Gallery
QC2, Kersnikova 4, tel. +386 (0)40 21 22 92, www.
kapelica.org. Open 12:00 - 20:00. Closed Sat, Sun.
Mestna Galerija (City Gallery)
QD3/4, Mestni Trg 5, tel. +386 (0)1 241 17 70, mestna.
galerija-lj@siol.net, www.mestna-galerija.si. Open
11:00-19:00, Sun 11:00-15:00. Closed Mon.
kuc Gallery
QD4, Stari Trg 21, tel./fax +386 (0)1421 31 40, galerija.
skuc@guest.arnes.si,www.galerija.skuc-drustvo.si.
Open 12:00-20:00. Closed Mon.
Tobana 001
QA4, Tobana 1, tel. +386 (0)1 24 12 500, info@mgml.
si, www.mgml.si. Open 11:00-19:00. Closed Mon, Sat,
Sun.
Vigalica Galerija
QC4, Trg Francoske Revolucije 7, www.mgml.si. Open
11:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon.
Theatres
Gledalie Glej
Glej Theatre is Slovenias oldest independent theatre.
Founded back in 1970, this experimental venue and
production house has been led through the decades by
young theatre creators, many of whom are Slovenias most
well known theatre practitioners today.
Glej produces and hosts research theatre projects of up-
and-coming directors, who can apply to through an open
16 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
call. The theatre also offers a stepping-stone to young
directors with professional working conditions, enabling
quick and effective personal artistic growth and providing
an entry point to a successful theatre career. Glejs team vi-
sion is to keep the institution a daring urban theatre, dedi-
cated to theatrical research and promoting the new and
marginal, while offering creators a space of uncensored
freedom of creation.QC4, Gregorieva 3, tel. +386 (0)1
251 66 79, www.glej.si.
Mladinsko Theatre (Mladinsko
Gledalie)
Often referred to as a laboratory for artists to develop and
create, Mladinsko Theatre has been active for well over
50 years and shows no sign of slowing down. Known for
working with stage directors who arent afraid to push
boundaries and explore the avant-garde, its current season
flies under the title of Who Are Our Heroes?, with pro-
ductions exploring the concept of heroism in the modern
age.QE1, Vilharjeva 11, tel. +386 (0)1 425 33 12, www.
en.mladinsko.com. Main box office at Trg Francoske
Revolucije 5 is open Mon-Fri 12:00-17:30, Sat 10:00-13:00.
Puppet Theatre (Lutkovno Gledalie)
Taking as its cue the origins of Slovenian puppet theatre
in the 15th century, this puppet theatre, founded in 1948,
provides over 500 performances annually, and is a hotbed
of creative music, design and other forms. Its responsible
for keeping scores of children entertained and amused
every week. Keep an eye out for the musical puppets that
come out of the small tower on the roof of the building
on the hour.QD/E3, Krekov Trg 2, tel. +386 (0)1300 09
70, www.lgl.si. The box office is open Monday to Friday
from 16:00 to 18:00, Saturday from 10:00 to 12:00, and
during the hour prior to each performance.
Stara Mestna Elektrarna - Elektro Ljub-
jana
Ljubljanas old power plant is one of the citys finest pieces
of industrial architecture. Constructed more than a centu-
ry ago, this historical and architectural landmark was given
a new lease on life in the 80s and 90s, when local artists
turned it into a premier cultural space. The venue contin-
ues to be a hub of the local creative and intellectual scene
hosting radical and provocative performances, discussions
and workshops, whilst there are several festivals held at
the venue throughout the year - Ex Ponto and Mladi Levi
are two well worth checking out. If youre catching a show,
or are just a fan industrial architecture, make sure to also
visit the small museum detailing the buildings technical
heritage.QE2, Slomskova 18, tel. +386 (0)51 269 906,
www.bunker.si.
More events online at
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
 Photo: B. Jakse/ Visit Ljubljana

Walking with Plenik

The main reading room of NUK, the National
and University Library, is one of Plecniks
masterpieces. Remember there is more to a
building than the facade, venture inside to
fully experience his architectural genius.

www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket March - April 2017 17


The church of St. Francis of Assisi in ika, or simply Pleniks
church to locals
A 60-minute Walk with
Plenik
While Pleniks influence extends well beyond the
sights seen on this route, theyll give you a good idea
of his style, as well as how profoundly he changed the
shape of this city. It starts, however, with a one of the
few iconic structures in Ljubljana that Plenik had noth-
ing to do with - Dragon Bridge itself.
Go there and take your pictures, then look at Pleniks
arcades and market, from either side of the river. If you
go on the right bank - the same side as the castle - you
can stroll along the arcades and admire this work on a
more human scale. Plenik intended it as a monument
to Emona, Roman Ljubljana, which explains the simple
classicism of the columns and colonnades.
One oddity to note, the columns at the end nearest
Dragon Bridge are longer than those by Triple Bridge,
and were designed this way to reduce the effects of
perspective when looking from the latter, an illusion
that can be slightly unsettling when seen from either
end. The arcades are now occupied by cafs, delicates-
sens and butchers. Near the Triple Bridge end there also
a downstairs fish market that overlooks the river, and
18 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
is worth visiting if only to see how form did not over-
whelm function in this building.
Turning away from the arcades you have the market
itself, which Plenik designed with both open and cov-
ered areas. The latter has some interesting stalls selling
meats, cheeses, dried fruits, nuts and other specialties.
The open market remains an important part of the city
centre, where local families and businesses shop for
supplies, and its well worth visiting in the mornings.
While walking through the arcades and market can let
you see Pleniks work close-up, a very good view can
be had from the other side of the river. Theres a short
and very pleasant walk along Petkovkovo nabreje,
which lets you see the arcades as a whole, revealing
how they follow the line of the mediaeval wall that en-
circled the old town. You should also note the uneven
stone blocks in the wall, something Plenik made use
of in other places on this walk, as well as the turret-like
structure that covers the spiral staircase to the fish mar-
ket. Theres a run of excellent cafes and bars, so youre
sure to find somewhere you like to sit down, relax, and
enjoy the view.
While Plenik made plans for a bridge connecting
both side of town here, the existing Butchers Bridge
was only built at this site in 2010, and is perhaps best-
known as the one covered in so-called lovers locks.
Well leave the utility of this for you to consider, but its
a good bridge to visit, both for the interesting and of-
ten amusing sculptures that it includes, and the views
it provides of the next Plenik structure on this walk,
the Triple Bridge.
On a fine day when Preeren Square and the Triple
Bridge are full of people walking to and fro it may seem
like this place has been unchanged for centuries, so
well does it blend into the old town, but in fact the area
was only pedestrianised in 2007. Until then vehicles
went through the square and over the main bridge, as
they had done since mediaeval times. This reveals one
of Ljubljanas secrets, one underlined by Pleniks cre-
ations - its ability to grow more beautiful over time, by
reworking the past rather than erasing it.
The Triple Bridge is another good example of this. The
19th century stone bridge crossing the Ljubljanica
eventually became too small for the amount of traffic
it carried, and the new structure was Pleniks solution.
The outer bridges were built for pedestrians, while the
middle one was reserved for vehicles. A noted feature is
the use of balustrades, 648 in total, and its worth look-
ing out for echoes of these in other Plenik buildings
around town, as he was a great believer in recycling and
reusing materials.
The Triple Bridge can be enjoyed from many angles,
and we recommend you approach it from various sides
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

during your stay, perhaps even by boat, to enjoy the
spaces it opens up as it connects the old and new parts
of Ljubljana. Our favourite view, however, comes a little
further down the river, from the next, rather unassum-
ing bridge. To get there you can walk along Cankarjevo
nabreje, past Lolita and other riverside cafs and bars,
or, to continue the Plenik theme, walk along the side
opposite the castle.
The next Plenik structure on this side of the river is
the back-end of the Slovenian Philharmonic Concert
Hall, which he designed with a rippled appearance to
mimic the waves on the Ljubljanica. Now occupied by
the Solist lounge bar, the structure is a good example
of the playfulness the architect was capable of, as well
as his sensitivity to the environment, both natural and
built. Right next to the Philharmonic is a staircase that
Plenik also designed, and if youve been paying atten-
tion then you might be able to spot it its the one
with a column.
From whatever side of the river you approach it from,
Cobblers Bridge is our favourite in town. Its a striking
work, with columns running along each side, and can
look especially beautiful at night. In mediaeval times it
was known as Butchers Bridge, but the smell was so
unpleasant those tradesmen were asked to leave and
shoemakers took their place. Floods and fires then
meant numerous changes over the years, with Pleniks
work finally taking shape in 1931. From here you can go
deeper into the old town, walk along the river into Breg,
or head off to the library and Krianke, the last two of
Pleniks monumental works in the city centre.
Walking with Plenik
designed many of the details, from the horse-head
door handle to much of the original furniture and fit-
tings. The main staircase and reading room are espe-
cially impressive, and there are regular tours of the
building for visitors.
Nearby youll see a tall column in another small square,
called French Revolution Square (Trg Francoske Revolu-
cije), and this is Pleniks Napoleon Obelisk. There are
some good cafs here, so its an excellent place to rest
your feet, get a drink and enjoy the view. Youre not far
from the City Museum or the last Plenik building on
this walk, Krianke.
Krianke was Pleniks final major work in Ljubljana,
and makes a fitting end for this short journey through
some his notable structures. For this project he was
tasked with turning an old monastery into a summer
theatre. The complex is a fascinating mix of elements
from different eras, giving the space its timeless feel,
and its hard to imagine it was only finished in 1956.
Plenik made use of items from older buildings in the
city, recycling statues, window frames and other fea-
tures, and as you look around you should see much to
remind you of the other works seen on this walk. The
space is open to visitors and often hosts concerts, the
architecture providing a magical setting in which to ex-
perience the right performance under the stars.

On this walk well assume you keep walking away from

the centre of town, stopping at New Square (Novi trg),
the one with a fountain, and then heading up to the
large, square building youll see after the end of the
square on the left, with a grey base of uneven stones,
red brick middle section and flat roof. Youll need to
walk along Turjaka ulica, passed the side of the build-
ing, and then turn left on Vegova ulica.

From the outside the National and University Library

can seem a little underwhelming, especially compared
to the nearby University of Ljubljana building, formerly
the Provincial Mansion, which can see by turning left
on Vegova. This faces Congress Square (Kongreski trg)
and runs for a whole block, with different designs on
each faade.

While at first glance the library may look like a rather

dull box, look closer and you should be able to see a
number of elements that mark this as a Plenik build-
ing. These include the three distinct levels to the outer
walls, and the mix of quarried stones with red bricks
and blocks recycled from older buildings, as well as the
column in the middle of the reading room windows. It
is inside, though, that the work reveals itself, as Plenik
www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket March - April 2017 19
 Walking with Plenik
Noah Charney (Photo by Urka Charney)
Noah Charney is a best-selling American author and professor of
art history who has lived in Slovenia for many years. A regular in
international media, whether for his books or his articles for ma-
jor foreign press, including The Guardian and The Washington
Post, he often writes on his adopted homeland, which he has
called the worlds best country. He completed his PhD at Univer-
sity of Ljubljana on the subject of Slovenias genius loci, architect
Joe Plenik. Since 2017 has been declared by Ljubljana Tourism
as a Plenik-focused year, it seemed like a good time to catch up
with the good doctor and ask him a few questions.
When did you first encounter Plenik, and what
about his work made such a big impression?
When I first visited Slovenia, back in 2000 on a Eurailing
trip, I was struck by his architecture. You cant help but
notice it, since most of the major (and most interesting)
buildings in Ljubljana are his handiwork. He was a unique
artist, someone who chose never to join a major move-
ment (which is why people might not have heard of him,
since he preferred to work in Slovenia, and was not a
member of the biggest modernist movement, founded
by Le Corbusier, CIAM, for instance). None of his pupils
approached his excellence, and I think its safe to say that
he is the greatest Slovenian artist in any medium. Ljublja-
na is very lucky that his career corresponded with a time
of rebuildingthere was a bad earthquake in 1895 that
ruined around 15% of the city centre. He got most of the
biggest commissions for public buildings, and so theres a
real sense that Ljubljana is Pleniks town. He has stylistic
and atmospheric parallels with Antoni Gaudi, but Plenik
designed far more buildings in Ljubljana than Gaudi in
Barcelona. Plenik used to say that the Slovenian national
style was hard to define, but when he crossed the border
from Austria, he felt a Slovene schtimmung, which is a
great German word for which theres no ideal transla-
tion, but its basically a vibe or atmosphere. Well, for me,
20 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
Ljubljana has a Plenik schtimmung.
Pleniks house has recently been renovated and won
an award for its new look. What are your thoughts?
Its beautifully done. Before, the house was charming but
there wasnt much of a museum to it, and you just took
a guided tour. Now there is a lot of extra didactic ma-
terialvisiting it is more of a meal. And you get a real
sense of the person who lived there. Plenik was very
quirky. He looked and acted like a mystic, with his long
white beard and tall black hat. He was an ascetic, keeping
to strict diets and water therapies. I love quirky characters
and his house helps to fill out a portrait of him. The City
Museums did a great job.
Do you have a favourite Plenik building in Ljubljana?
I think the atrium of NUK, the National and University
Library, is spectacular. Its covered in ink-dark stone, and
as you ascend the stairs, you enter the beautiful, warm,
bright reading room, which is a very human size. Its a
nice metaphor for books and learning illuminating us all.
Ljubljana has something of a Plenik fetish: recently
weve seen Plenik cups, tea, pens, even schnapps
Why not, right? Theres so much Mona Lisa merchandise,
so I think its great to promote Ljubljana and Plenik in
any way that works. I was actually thinking that it would
be great if some artisan firm would produce Plenik-
designed chairs. They are amazing, and I bet a Kickstarter
project would take off. Hipsters from Brooklyn to Copen-
hagen would totally go for hand-crafted Plenik furniture.
Rumour has it that you have a book on Plenik com-
ing out this year
Its true. My doctoral dissertation is being turned into a
beautifully-illustrated book. Its a scholarly biography of
Plenik and his work, specifically about why he made the
decisions he did to forgo a higher-profile career in Vienna
or Prague, and return to his homeland. It will be pub-
lished by the City Museums of Ljubljana and Totaliteta,
and be available in Slovene and English.
And I hear this is not your only book coming out in
Slovenia this year
Yes, Ive been busy. In April, Beletrina will release an essay
collection, in Slovene and English, called Slovenology:
Living and Traveling in the Worlds Best Country. And in
September, a novel I wrote long ago called To Catch the
Devil, which takes place in Slovenia (and which features
Plenik as a character) will be published in a small, bou-
tique print run. Itll be a Plenik-fest!
Noah will be contributing regularly to In Your Pocket,
with new material in each issue this year, so stay tuned
for more. And to learn more about his work, you can visit
noahcharney.com or join him on Facebook.
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
 1
Gornji trg 4

Old Town
lJUblJanas enTirely PedesTrianised old ToWn
cenTre has received an exTensive facelifT in
recenT years, and is once again The hearT
and soUl of The caPiTal ciTy

www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket March - April 2017 21

 old Town
2 page 24

3 OPEN page 56/51

UNTIL
4AM
EVERY DAY
DJ

4 page 24
4
7

2
5 page 79
 old Town
page 11 9

& Contempo

Open Kitchen

page 25 8

8
INFO
page 25
SHOP NOw! 7

TRAVEL
SHOP
1
5
Slovenska cesta 17

TOP10
SOUVENIRS

page 25
6

6

Abi Falafel
Restaurants
Abi Falafel
Located just around the corner from Ljubljanas famed
Dragon Bridge, Abi Falafel was Slovenias first Middle East-
ern snack bar and is still the best place in town to savour
a delectable falafel sandwich. With other meatless dishes
including hummus and several salads, its a popular and
logical stop for vegetarians, and the menu also includes
other Arabic treats, such as shish kebab sandwiches, fa-
tayer (mini pies with various fillings), kibbeh (deep-fried,
breaded, minced-meat balls) and more. Just make sure to
save room for dessert, as there are always a selection of
mouthwatering Arabic sweets and cardamom tea to finish
off your meal.QE3, Trubarjeva 40, tel. +386 (0)41 64 01
66, www.falafel.si. Open 09:00 - 24:00, Thu - Sat 09:00 -
01:00, Sun 11:00 - 22:00. . JA6UVGS
Chutys Heart of Asia
Chutys offers some of Ljubljanas best Asian cuisine in a mod-
ern, upscale setting, and just inside the door an aquarium of
fresh lobsters and oysters greets guests. The majority of the
dishes are Thai, and their authenticity is assured by the fact that
the entire cooking staff is from Thailand. Non-Thai dishes, like
Kamchatka crab, Black Angus ribeye and tuna steaks, are pre-
pared with pan-Asian flavours and homemade sauces, while
the quality of the wine list is no surprise given that two-time
Slovenian Sommelier of the Year Gaper arman helped put
it together. The possibility of late night dining is also a rarity
in Ljubljana and much appreciated.QSlovenska 19, tel. +386
(0)83 899 772/+386 (0)70 401 351, www.chutys.com. Open
11:00-24:00 (kitchen 23:00), Sat 12:00-24:00 (kitchen 23:00),
Sun 12:00-20:00. PJAB
pajza
An exceedingly classy affair with chunky, creaking wood-
en floors, a number of different rustic-feel rooms to eat in,
an extensive menu of Slovenian and international dishes,
and an antique silver cash register in the entrance. Locat-
ed on one of the old towns quaintest most photogenic
streets, its popular with many people including business
professionals, tourists and couples. During the summer
months they have one of the most romantic courtyards
in Ljubljana. QD-5, Gornji Trg 28, tel. +386 (0)1 425 30
94, info@spajza-lj.si, www.spajza-restaurant.si. Open
12:00-23:00, Sun 12:00-22:00. JA6GBS
24 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
Coffee & Cakes
okoladni Atelje Dobnik
okoladnica Atelje Dobnik is a bright modern caf with a
great range of Lavazza coffees and teapigs tea. What sets it
apart from the rest however is the truly inspiring quality of
the sweet stuff on offer. We all love chocolate, and Dobniks
output truly is second to none. With over 20 years experi-
ence of perfecting the art of chocolate production as well as
receiving the sign of Ljubljana quality in 2010, there is no bet-
ter place for a sweet treat to compliment your morning cof-
fee.QC3, Trg Republike 1, tel. +386 (0)1 425 31 41, info@
cokoladniatelje.si, www.cokoladniatelje.si. Open 09:00 -
21:00, Sat 08:00 - 15:00. Closed Sun. PJUBW
Bazilika Krianke
The Bazilika family has expanded once more, and now has
a third home on the lovely French Revolution Square, just
opposite the Krianke Summer Theatre, known for being
home to the Ljubljana Festival and host to some of Ljubljanas
most memorable concerts. As with their other branches
on Preernova and Mikloieva Cesta, the new location is a
gourmands paradise, with a menu of freshly prepared soups,
salads, sandwiches, sweet and savoury pies, smoothies and
other delightful offerings, virtually all of which are vegetarian
and most of which are also vegan. Of course you can also just
drop by to enjoy a drink on the lively terrace.QTrg Franco-
ske Revolucije 5, tel. +386 (0)51 666 065, www.bazilika.
si. Open 07:30 - 23:00, Sun 07:30 - 17:00. . iJABS
Divine
Originally opened in 1934, for more than eight decades
the family-run Divine has been a popular destination for
Ljubljanas residents to indulge their sweet tooths and
soak up the romantic atmosphere of the lively riverside
embankment. Nowadays Divine remains as beloved as
ever, thanks in large part to their heavenly selection of
homemade cakes, ice cream and other desserts, as well as
their prime people-watching location. Whenever we find
ourselves here, our order usually includes some bresaola-
style cured beef (either by itself or in a sandwich) accom-
panied by a glass of wine from our favourite Slovene wine
region. QD-3, Cankarjevo Nabreje 7, tel. +386 (0)1 252
72 07, www.kavarna-divine.si. Open 08:00-24:00. P
TJUGBSW
Dobnik
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
SHOPPING
Bags
The aptly named Bags store on Wolfova stocks three world
renowned and innovative brands, all of the highest qual-
ity. Amongst them is the Italian label, Mandarina Duck -
iconic for its varied styles, forms and colours, which follow
contemporary urban trends. For the young and young at
heart, Bags also offers Kipling, made of lightweight mate-
rials and great for everyday use. For those who are look-
ing for something innovative yet more traditional there is
Victorinox, which offers guaranteed durability, whether
youre after a bag or one of their well-known Swiss army
knives. There is heaps more on offer, though youll have
to go have a look for yourselves.QC/D3, Wolfova 1, tel.
+386 (0)1 251 10 10, www.bags.si. Open 09:30 - 19:00,
Sat 09:00 - 14:00. Closed Sun.
okoladnica Cukrek Mikloieva
okoladnica Cukrek has several branches in the city,
with this one being opposite the Hotel Union. Its a well-
stocked chocolate store with items such as Ljubljana
dragons in souvenir boxes, fruit covered in chocolate and
even chocolate flavoured with salt. There are also pralines,
marzipan sticks, candies for diabetics and, most intrigu-
ingly, Preerens chocolate balls, named in honour of the
national poet.QD -3, Mikloieva 4, tel +386 (0)1 421
04 53, info@benedict.si, www.cukrcek.si. Open 09:00-
20:00, Sun 10:00-19:00.
Dekanter
Dekanter may not be the largest wine shop in town in fact
were pretty sure its the smallest but as we once heard
someone say: its not the size that counts, its how you use it.
And Anja and Janez, the friendly couple who run the place,
definitely make the most of the space, stocking an excellent
selection of wine carefully chosen from Slovenias best small
producers, including Sveti Martin, Bati, Edi Simi, Sosoli,
Klinec and Mansus. In addition to the wine, theres an as-
sortment of goat, sheep and cow cheeses, as well as high
quality schnapps. A store that sells time, not just wine, and
has open tastings each Thursday at 20:00. QD-4, Gornji Trg
10, tel. +386 (0)68 675 445, vino.dekanter@gmail.com,
http://dekanter.wix.com/wineboutiquedekanter. Open
16:00 - 21:00, Sat, Sun 10:00 - 14:00.
Cutty Sark
www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket
Bags
Ikona Ljubljana
While its true that the shopping in Ljubljana is not
quite up the standard seen London, New York or Paris,
a number of boutiques and larger stores are begin-
ning to narrow the gap, and among these is undoubt-
edly Ikona. Located in the heart of the old town in a
very attractive building opposite City Hall, Ikona has
fashion brands for men and women, with clothing,
shoes, accessories, perfumes, make-up and more. So
while enjoying the charm of Ljubljanas cobbled lanes
you can also step off the streets and catch up on the
latest styles from a list of international designers and
brands, such as New Balance, Chiara Ferragni, Reli-
gion, Imperial, Nicce London, Moschino, M Missoni,
Nude, and Jijil.QMestni Trg 24, tel. +386 (0)59 342
800, www.ikonaljubljana.si. Open 10:00 - 20:00, Fri,
Sat 10:00 - 21:00, Sun 11:00 - 18:00.
Info Travel Shop
If you were wondering what it would be like if the team
behind these fantastic Ljubljana In Your Pocket guides
ever opened their own shop / info point / office in the
heart of the city centre, then head on over to Slovenska 17
in the arcade opposite Kongresni Trg to find out. In addi-
tion to a limitless supply of In Your Pocket guides as well
as other travel books and maps we publish, youll find our
personal selection of premium Slovene souvenirs, includ-
ing gourmet chocolate, Hrastnik crystal, our favourite wine
and the Goat Mugs made famous on Kickstarter.QSloven-
ska 17, www.the-slovenia.com.
nightlife
Cutty Sark
One of the most popular bars in the city and fre-
quented by all manner of locals and expats, Cutty Sark
provides two dark bars and a summer terrace, childish
art on the walls, model ships and the worlds biggest
chewing gum machine. Featuring a good selection
of local and international beer, find it bursting with
interesting specimens most evenings.QB3, Knafljev
Prehod 1, tel. +386 (0)83 859 144/+386 (0)51 686
209, www.cuttysarkpub.si. Open 08:00 - 03:00,
Mon, Tue, Sun 08:00 - 01:00. PT J A 6 U E
GB X S W
March - April 2017 25
 Where to Eat
Yes Ljubljana does bubble tea and tasty modern Asian food, head to TLOFT (Photo: Tina Mentol)
Slovenian
In a way, theres no such thing as Slovenian food - with
sheep and cows on its mountain pastures giving meat and
milk products, the Mediterranean providing fresh seafood,
and with influences from the Balkans, Austria and Italy,
you might as well call it world cuisine. One thing that is
unique is the gostilna, the traditional, rustic, family-owned
Slovenian inn providing affordable and honest homemade
food that would make your granny grin.
Aroma
Located in the citys oldest house, dating from 1528, this
has already become a popular choice for visitors to Lju-
bljana. Aroma has a diverse menu offering traditional
Slovene dishes, as well as almost anything else you might
fancy - from steaks and pizzas to salads and desserts - as
well as a good selection of quality Slovene wines. Break-
fast specials look good too. Almost as hard as choosing
what to order is deciding whether to sit inside under the
beautiful vaulted ceilings or outside in prime position be-
side the Ljubljanica river.QD3, Ribji Trg 2, tel. +386 (0)31
30 70 30, www.aroma-ljubljana.si. Open 08:00 - 24:00.
PiJABW
Atelje
Decked out in browns of brick and wood, Atelje is a
bar and restaurant with a classy, understated feel, as
youd expect from it being part of the Grand Union
Hotel. A short and often changing menu re-imagines
classic dishes, all masterfully prepared and beautifully
26 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
presented, and on our visit we were lucky enough to
sample the pork ribs with kimchi and pears, followed
by brown butter ice cream. Tasting menus are avail-
able for those wanting to explore further, and there
are private dining rooms that can be booked for more
privacy, while the bar is well-stocked and nicely lit,
making Atelje ideal for date-nights or business. Guests
also enjoy free parking in the hotel garage.QD3,
Nazorjeva 2, tel. +386 (0)1 308 1907, www.union-
hotels.eu. Open 12:00 - 22:00, Sat 18:00 - 22:00.
Closed Sun.
Druga Violina
Druga violina specialises in good locally grown produce,
a simple short menu of Slovene classics and a top loca-
tion in the citys old town, but theres a twist in the tale
with the other violin (as the English translation of the
name goes). Its actually a project for people with dis-
abilities, who produce much of the food on a farmland
near Ljubljana and also work as waiting staff in the res-
taurant itself. Come and see what its all about, while
enjoying one of the fresh local dishes either in the rustic
dining room or on the delightful cobbled pavement out-
side, voted Best Restaurant Summer Terrace by In Your
Pocket readers.QD4, Stari Trg 21, tel. +386 (0)82 05 25
06, www.center-db.si. Open 08:00 - 24:00. PJ A
UB W
Florjankov Hram
A sleek modern hotel and a traditional Slovene gostilna
might seem like an odd pairing, but Florjankov Hram,
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

located just north of Ljubljana proves that it works.
With a tradition dating back to 1792, the inn knows
a thing or two about hospitality. The family-run res-
taurant is a great place to try homely Slovene cuisine,
whilst seasonal specials showcase premium local ingre-
dients. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner (res-
ervations required Sat and Sun), the restaurant is also
a perfect choice for parties, with private rooms avail-
able upon request and comfortable hotel rooms should
guests overdo it on Florjankovs fine food and wine.
QL-1, Dunajska 238, tel. +386 (0)1 56 83 859, www.
florjanckovhram.si/. Open 07:00 - 22:00. PiH Ai
LGKW
GOSTILNA PRI KOLOVRATU
Gostilna Pri kolovratu has been a restaurant since 1836,
and today it still offers traditional Ljubljana food. This
includes dishes like slow-cooked veal and Vodnik salad,
from the first Slovenian cookbook, published in 1799.
There are also daily specials showing the more Mediter-
ranean side of Slovenian cooking, with everything very
reasonably priced for the Old Town location, just oppo-
site the Cathedral. If you dont have time for a meal we
recommend trying some of the coffee or hot chocolate
drinks, among the best in the city, along with a cake or
dessert. Whatever you order, in good weather be sure to
check out the little courtyard at the back.QD-3, Ciril-
Metodov Trg 14, tel. +386 (0)1 620 98 84. Open 08:00
- 22:00.
www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket
Where to Eat
Traka cesta 330,
1000 Ljubljana
T : +386 1 200 91 00
GOSTILNA GORjANC
With over two centuries of tradition (it was officially opened
for business in 1813), Gorjanc is one of the longest running
traditional Slovenian restaurants around Ljubljana, but at
the same time its also one of the newest, as it underwent
extensive restoration and modernisation at the same time
the G Design Hotel was built next door. Along with the
standard hearty Slovenian fare, such as blood sausages and
sauerkraut with pork fat cracklings, the menu makes room
for various refined fish, pastas, salads and other gourmet
dishes. On weekdays there are lunch specials on offer that
can be seen in advance on its website.QH-5, Traka 330,
tel. +386 (0)1 423 11 11, www.gdesignhotel.si. Open
11:00 - 22:00, Sun 11:00 - 17:00. PTALW
March - April 2017 27
 Where to Eat
GOSTILNA ESTICA
estica been in business since 1776, and is an ideal setting
to explore traditional Slovenian cuisine. All the famous
dishes are on the menu, along with many less well-known
items and wines from each of the countrys regions, as well
as a wood-fired oven and grill. As the oldest restaurant in
town its long-played host to local artists, writers and poli-
ticians, and in addition to the central dining area has a set
of smaller rooms and corners to relax and discuss business

t:00386
or pleasure in. We usually head to one of the backroom
tables to enjoy a steak and few glasses of teran. Find it
just across from the rather small Nebotinik skyscraper on

(0)1 24 20 855 Slovenska cesta.QC-3, Slovenska cesta 40, tel. +386 (0)1
242 0855, www.sestica.si. Open 10:00 - 23:00, Sat 12:00
- 23:00, Sun 12:00 - 17:00.

GUTERIjA
With the aim of serving traditional Slovenian cuisine us-
ing the best local ingredients, chef Joe Bukovinski ap-
plies modern methods to dishes grandmothers have
been making for years. Set near the river and a short walk
beyond the old town, this is a family-friend place with a
kids playground and ice-cream garden, but one that also
suits business lunches and more formal events. In addition
to regional classics there are items made on a Big Green
Egg Grill, and a vegetarian menu thats no afterthought,
including vegan options. Reasonably priced, with main
dishes from around 6-20, there are weekly brunch and
lunch menus, as well as a la carte. We recommend looking
online to see what theyve got today.QHrenova ulica 19,
traditional tel. +386 (0)59 927 385, www.gusterija.si. Open 09:00
- 23:00, Sat 10:00 - 23:00, Sun 10:00 - 22:00. . TAi

Slovenian
BW

GjINA

cuisine Voted by our readers as the best Slovenian restaurant in

Ljubljana fon multiple ocassions, Gjina offers traditional
cuisine from the region of Prekmurje, which is situated
in the far northeastern corner of the country and heavily
influenced by neighbouring Hungary, Austria and Croa-
tia. One100
of the most typical dishes is the award-winning
bogra, a thick meaty stew that comes served in a large
copper95kettle, while the multi-layered cake known as
gibanica is easily the best in the city and an absolute must
for dessert. Check the chalkboard or ask your waiter for the
75
daily specials. QD-4, Mestni Trg 19, tel. +386 (0)8 380 64
46, info@prekmurska-gostilna.si, www.prekmurska-
gostilna.si. Open 08:00-24:00. PJAB

Slovenska cesta 40 NEW 25

jAKOB FRANC
Ljubljana Much has been happening in the Ljubljana dining scene
5 one of the most interesting new restaurants to
lately and
open has been Gostilna Jakob Franc. A short walk from
the centre
0 by the river in Trnovo, wed describe this very
sophisticated little restaurant as innovatively traditional.
www.sestica.si Perhaps that is an oxymoron, but what we are trying to
say is its mighty impressive how Jakob Franc are celebrat-
ing and elevating classic Slovene food. The restaurant is
28 Ljubljana In Your Pocket ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
 Where to Eat
unashamedly a temple to pork, specifically a very special
native Slovene breed of Blackbelted piggy, which has ab-
solutely delicious fat - make sure to try the Lardo. Jakob
Franc also have a superb selection of mainly Slovene and
Italian wines.QD5, Trnovski pristan 4a, tel. +386 (0)40
897 153. Open 11:00 - 22:00, Sun 11:00 - 16:00. .
PJABK

Kmeki Hram
Short of getting invited to a local grandmothers house, the
family-run Kmeki Hram is simply one of the best places to
try traditional Slovenian cuisine during your stay in Ljubljana.
Not only is the home-cooked food authentic, delicious and
served in generous portions, but the restaurant is located
amongst fields and farmland in the neighbourhood-cum-
village of Tomaevo, giving diners the atmosphere of Slove-
nian countryside only 5km north of the city centre. Popular
with locals out for a family lunch, businessmen entertaining
guests from abroad and pretty much everyone in between,
for short-term visitors the premises also double as a guest-
house, with some 17 rooms available. QM-2, Tomaevska
50, tel. +386 (0)1 560 70 00, penzion.kmeckihram@
siol.net, www.kmeckihram.si. Open 10:00 - 22:00.
Closed Sat, Sun. PTALBW

Kuhinja Krui
Aside from the Euro, nothing has stirred up more dis-
agreement amongst Europeans in recent years than
horse meat - Slovenia being one of the countries where
people largely have no problem with horses finding their
way onto kitchen tables. Like-minded visitors in Ljubljana
will thus surely want to add the family-run Krui to their
itinerary. Operating a butchery for over a century, its one
of the countrys top suppliers of horse meat, which also
dominates the menu in various different forms at the
restaurant on the same premises. Various appetisers,
stews, cured meats and of course steaks from horse are
on offer here, all of which can be enjoyed in the charm-
ing little dining room or taken away.QL3, Bezenkova
11, tel. +386 (0)1 544 61 41, www.mesarstvo-krusic.
si. Open 08:00 - 20:00, Thu 08:00 - 22:00. Closed Sat,
Sun. LS

Mediterraneo
This rustic themed restaurant in the centre of the old
town, opposite the cathedral, is a perfect place to take
a break from sightseeing and taste some authentic fla-
vours of Ljubljana. Much of Mediterraneos menu is
devoted to traditional Slovene cuisine, as well as rein-
terpreted local classics, like the signature dish - the Lju-
bljana cannonball, a decadent dish of crumbed chicken
stuffed with prosciutto, peanuts and kajmak (a rich fresh
cheese). As the restaurants name suggests, Mediterra-
nean influences also feature prominently, particularly in
the great selection of cold starters and seasonal lunch
specials. Mediterraneo also offer good coffee, light
breakfasts, fairly priced wines and friendly service.QD3,
Ciril Metodov Trg 16, tel. +386 (0)64 226 777. Open
08:00 - 23:00. iJ A B K W
www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket March - April 2017 29
 Where to Eat
PRI KOFU
Hidden down a small side street in Krakovo, Pri kofu is a long-
time favourite of local university students who like to enjoy a
proper homecooked meal from time to time. The 8 lunch
specials come in large portions and are a great town, with
most herbs and vegetables coming from neighbourhood
gardens or the countryside just outside Ljubljana. Its also pos-
sible to order a la carte, and an English-speaking waitress will
gladly inform you of what seasonable specialties are available.
Theres a wide selection of Slovene wines, as well as beers
that you cant find anywhere else in town.QC-5, Rena 8, tel.
+386 (0)1 426 45 08. Open 10:00 - 24:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 -
24:00. Closed Mon. . TJA6UBW
KRNICLj
Well be honest, weve always considered BTC City as some-
thing of Slovenias Mecca of capitalistic indulgence, a sort of
overcompensation for the lean years of Yugoslavia, which
makes it all the more surprising to find this truly delightful
and refreshingly authentic eatery tucked away here. The
affable proprietor Andrej adheres to a strict policy of using
only fresh local ingredients without any artificial additives or
preservatives, and you wont find better tasting traditional
spoon-eaten dishes such as pasulj, riet, turnip jota or beef
goulash anywhere in town. Check the black board behind
the counter, or their Facebook page, for the daily specials.
QM-3, martinska 152, Trnica BTC, tel. +386 (0)40 537
343, www.skrniclj.si. Open 09:00 - 17:00, Sat 10:00 -
15:00. Closed Sun, Closed from 1 - 16 August. . PLS
30 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
STRELEC
Perched high up in the archers tower, Ljubljana castles
new restaurant overlooks the city from a grand position. A
combination of the Roman Emona, Medieval and modern in
terms of both cuisine and ambiance, the menu was created
with the help of top ethnology professor Dr Janez Bogataj.
Historically reminiscent dishes of slick gourmet modernity
are crafted with ingredients from Ljubljanas famed market
by the star of the show: Igor Jagodic. Recognised as one
of the top three chefs in Slovenia, he was previously at the
renowned Vila Bled, and now takes care of the sublime of-
ferings at Strelec.QD-4, Grajska Planota 1, tel. +386 (0)31
687 648, www.kaval-group.si. Open 11:00 - 22:00, Fri, Sat
11:00 - 23:00, Sun 11:00 - 17:00. PJALB
asian
CESARSKO MESTO
A big, brightly-coloured, and certainly kitschy beacon lo-
cated some 3km east of the city centre, this Chinese res-
taurant keeps its parking lot full as their ever-smiling staff
serves a steady stream of hungry locals. The menu focuses
on Mongolian and Tibetan specialties and offers Slove-
nian beverages as well as Chinese and Tibetan drinks. Just
down the street from BIT Hotel and easily reached from
the ring road, the trip here is worth it if youre craving au-
thentic East Asian cuisine.QM-4, Litijska 76, tel. +386 (0)1
544 4500, www.cesarsko-mesto.si. Open 12:00 - 23:00.
PAUGBS
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
Slovenian amazing . . Culinary spoiling . .

www.visitljubljana.com

www.KAVAL-GROUP.si
info: rok.hribar@kaval-group.si

STRELEC RESTAURANT
id
gu di
vo

e
pi lni
op va
ng
sh po
d ku
an na

caffe
Fuinski grad
n
ou i i
n
i

t
ar
in
 Where to Eat
Lemongrass marinated grilled Black Angus beef fillet with snow peas
and taro (Shambala)
Shambala
Not only does Shambalas kitchen turn out some of the
best (and spiciest) Asian cuisine in Slovenia, but the
tranquil, almost meditative, ambience of the place al-
lows you to enjoy your meal in a state of perfect relax-
ation - with some of the best service in town thrown
in as an added benefit. During the warmer months,
diners can also take advantage of the pleasant little
garden that is tucked away in one of the buildings
inner courtyards. Situated down a narrow alleyway
off Breg, this hidden gem is definitely worth finding.
QC4, Krievnika 12, tel. +386 (0)1 426 30 14/+386
(0)31 843 833, www.shambala.si. Open 12:00 - 24:00.
Closed Sun. . PT J A G B K
Thai Inn Pub
With bright wallpaper, bamboo adornments, Thai statues
and a bric-a-brac of other Asian-themed decorations, youll
get a good taste of what visiting a real Thai restaurant is like.
Thai Inn Pub forgoes the ultra elegant, westernised take on
both the atmosphere and their food, and the result is Thai
food that tastes like Thai food. If youre concerned about
having food that will leave your mouth on fire, you neednt
worry, as the menu clearly explains the degree of spiciness,
and there are also more than 50 beers on hand to help sooth
your taste buds.QB4, Rimska 17, tel. +386 (0)1 421 03 77,
www.thaipub.si. Open 11:00 - 22:00, Sat 12:00 - 22:00.
Closed Sun, Pub open 08:00-24:00, Sat 10:00-00:00. (All
mains 6.90). PJA6UGKS
32 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
Tloft
Yes Ljubljana there is more to international food than
burgers and we cant tell you how happy we are that
Tloft has entered the local dining scene offering some-
thing completely different, namely, casual and modern
Asian. The select menu is perfect for a quick lunch or
light dinner (or not so light on all-you-can eat sushi
night). Grab a plate of fried noodles, fresh sushi perhaps
or some tasty dumplings and snacks - we are obsessed
with the Momofuku inspired pulled pork steamed
buns. Living up to its name Tloft has one of the best
range of teas in town and is the place to enjoy an au-
thentic chinese tea ceremony or be adventurous and
have a bubble tea.QC2, Gosposvetska 4, tel. +386
(0)31 412 803. Open 07:00 - 22:00, Sat 11:00 - 22:00.
Closed Sun. PJ A S W
Tokyo Piknik
Despite what the name may suggest, Tokyo Piknik offers
a whole range of Asian cuisine as well as more recogni-
sable Western dishes. With plenty of outdoor seating by
the river, it represents another excellent option for a casual
afternoon lunch or an atmospheric evening meal, another
string to Ljubljanas growing bow of Asian food. It also
happens to be the only real ramen bar in Slovenia, and all
the noodles you will gorge on are completely hand-made.
Regardless of the time of day, the desserts are wonder-
ful, both the taste and the aesthetics. QD-4, Cankarjevo
Nabreje 25, tel. +386 (0)30 60 88 08, romeo.plus@
siol.net, www.tokyopiknik.com. Open 09:00-24:00.
JAB
Balkan
Balkan Express
What better way to deal with an exhausting day of shop-
ping than hoeing into a big plate of juicy evapii. Thank-
fully Balkan Express at the first floor dining area in City
Park BTC has us covered with a solid range of Balkan fa-
vourites from smoky grills meats to burek and make sure
to leave room for baklava. And if you dont want to go to
BTC but have a craving for pleskavica, Balkan Express also
delivers throughout Ljubljana seven days a week.QM3,
martinska 152g, tel. +386 (0)41 390 500, www.balkan-
express.si/. Open 10:00 - 21:00, Sun 10:00 - 15:00.
PVS
Gostilna ad
When you ask locals to name their favourite Balkan res-
taurant in Ljubljana, ad is one of the most frequently
heard answers. Situated by Ronik Hill around corner
from Tivoli Park, its also the longest-running restaurant
of its kind in town, and guests can dine in the shady gar-
den surrounded by nature or in the rustic homey interi-
or. Specialising in spit and grilled dishes, the beefsteaks,
grilled peppers and ranjii skewers all come highly rec-
ommended.QJ3, Cesta Na Ronik 18, tel. +386 (0)1
251 34 46, www.gostilna-cad.si. Open 11:00 - 23:00.
(5-15). PT J A U ILEGBX S W
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

GOSTILNICA RIO-MOMO
Situated between the central post office and Kon-
gresni Trg on the citys main thoroughfare, weve
never found the exterior to be the most inviting
but once you get inside its actually quite warm and
cosy. The thick leather covers on the menus portend
the ample selection of grilled meat dishes within,
although vegetarians have a handful of a pastas
and salads to choose from as well. On your way in
dont forget to check the table outside for flyers
entitling you to a free glass of wine.QC-3, Sloven-
ska 28, tel. +386 (0)31 751 751/+386 (0)14 25 32
26, www.riomomo.si. Open 11:00 - 23:00. (6-19).
P TJA U S W
gourmet
MONSTERA BISTRO
Much to the delight of local foodies (ourselves in-
cluded), the neo-bistro concept, where a classically-
trained chef leaves behind a grand, often Michelin-
starred restaurant to pursue a unique culinary vision
at their own establishment, has officially come to
Ljubljana. Bine Voli, one of the best-known chefs in
the country, and his wife Katarina run the lovely little
Monstera, cheekily named for the tropical plant that
was ubiquitous during Yugoslav times - alluding to the
fusion of nostalgic tradition and modernity that is the
trademark of Bines cooking. In lieu of a la carte options
Where to Eat
there are weekly set lunches, while dinner consists of
a heavenly 7-course chefs choice tasting menu. The
drinks list is equally impressive, with superbly paired
wines, specially produced own-label craft beer and
carbonated tap water on draught. Even locals will
want to drop by in the morning and try their special
Ljubljana Breakfast.QGosposka 9, tel. +386 (0)40 431
123, www.monstera.si. Open 08:30 - 17:00, Thur-Sat
08:30 - 23:00. Closed Sun and holidays. Reservations
highly recommended for dinner. . P J A
indian
NAMAST
Set along the beautifully redeveloped Breg riverside
walk in the old town, Namast is the longest running
Indian restaurant in all of Slovenia, and offers one of
Ljubljanas most romantic dining experiences of any
flavour - with soft yellow hued lighting, hand-paint-
ed walls and a relaxed cosy atmosphere. The house
specialties are dishes from the Rajastan and Punjab
regions, which are prepared individually with spices
directly imported from the subcontinent and can be
ordered mild to extra hot. Sometimes we like to stop
by just to savour a cup of spicy masala chai.QC/D-4,
Breg 8, tel. +386 (0)14 25 01 59, fax +386 (0)1 236
20 27, www.restavracija-namaste.si. Open 11:00 -
24:00, Sun 11:00 - 22:00. (5-21). PT J A 6 i
U G BX S

One of a kind! 120 years of tradition

120 years or premium quality
...........................................................
Cesta na Ronik 18, Ljubljana
Opening time- Every day 11:00-23:00
phone +386 (0)1 251 34 46
www.gostilna-cad.si

www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket March - April 2017 33

 Where to Eat
international
AS APERITIVO
The more casual dining wing of the legendary Gostilna As
next door, Aperitivo is one of the top choices for business
lunches, light snacks and afterwork drinks in the city centre.
Inspired by the giant tree that still grows through the middle
of it, the building was completely rebuilt in 2011, now con-
sisting of a large airy space on the ground floor with a float-
ing terrace above, all of which is furnished with creations by
some of the top names in design. For price-conscious din-
ers there are gourmet daily set menus starting from only 8,
while the excellent full a la carte menu focuses on Mediter-
ranean cuisine and steaks.QC-3, opova 5a, Knafljev Pre-
hod, tel. +386 (0)1 425 41 68, www.gostilnaas.si. Open
10:00 - 01:00, Sat 10:00 - 02:00. JAEBW
BISTRO zVEzdA
Located in the heart of Ljubljanas city centre on Kongresni
Trg, and Zvezda Park (and conveniently above a shiny new
subterranean parking garage), Bistro is fine place to both
dine and people watch. While the restaurant is minimal-
ist in dcor, its menu of gourmet lunches and light snacks
are nothing if not decadent, and its sophisticated wine list
is complimented by an ample selection of cocktails for
those wishing to drop by for an after work or late night
tipple. QC-3, Kongresni Trg 3, tel. +386 (0)1 421 90 91,
www.zvezdaljubljana.si. Open Mon - Sat 12:00 - 24:00.
JAS
BISTRO Kongresni trg 3
www.zvezdaljubljana.si www.facebook.si/zvezdaljubljana
34 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
GOSTILNA AS
One of Slovenias first truly world class restaurants when it
opened its doors in the centre of Ljubljana some two decades
ago, in the years since it hasnt missed a beat, still serving some
of the very best Mediterranean-inspired cuisine in the city. For
us the true standouts on the menu are the fantastic seafood
specialities (both starters and main courses), but you also cant
go wrong with the steaks, grilled to order on an open-fire.
When in doubt, you can rely on the friendly and professional
staff for recommendations, as well as guidance with the equally
superb wine list. A must for lovers of extravagant dining!QC-3,
opova 5a (Knafljev Prehod), tel. +386 (0)1 425 88 22, www.
gostilnaas.si. Open 12:00 - 01:00. PJAGBK
HOTEL CUBO RESTAURANT
For fine modern dining right in the heart of the city centre,
look no further than the ground floor of Hotel Cubo. Just
steps away from some of Ljubljanas top cultural venues
(Cankarjev Dom, Drama Theatre and the Slovenian Philhar-
monic) Cubo is a popular choice for a pre- or post-perfor-
mance dinner. The tranquil interior and professional service
also makes it a common destination for important business
lunches, while gourmet cuisine is creatively prepared with
the freshest ingredients, and complimented by an exquisite
wine list. Free kerbside valet service and shuttles for groups
of four or more guests are added bonuses.QC-4, Slovenska
15, tel. +386 (0)1 425 60 30, www.hotelcubo.com. Open
12:00 - 16:00. Closed Sat, Sun. PJALW
jB
After more than 25 years in the business JB is firmly entrenched
as one of the best restaurants in town, with this fine-dining
experience coming courtesy of founder and multiple award-
winning head chef, Janez Bratov (hence the name). Located
in one of Joe Pleniks more imposing secessionist-style build-
ings, JB attracts a mix of well-to-do locals and visiting foodies.
The menu is comprised entirely of seasonal specialities, with
daily changes depending on what the chef has found in the
market that morning. Expect the best ingredients, cooked with
respect and a mastery of technique. Allow around 3 hours for
the 11-course tasting menu. The only downside is the price,
which can easily top 50 per person without wine.QD-1,
Mikloieva 19, tel. +386 (0)1 430 70 70, www.jb-slo.com.
Open 12:00 - 23:00, Sat 17:00 - 23:00. Closed Sun. PJA
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

Mala Terasa
Mala Terasa, or little terrace, is a fantastic, youthful bis-
tro with a satisfying menu of soups, rice dishes, salads,
burgers, desserts and more, all very reasonably priced
and made with fresh, local ingredients. Perched on the
first floor of the City Centre complex above the newly
renovated Slovenska Cesta, next time you pass by be
sure to pop in and check out the daily specials and set
lunches (also available to go), as well as the view of the
city, from the terrace or inside, including the iconic
Nebotinik skyscraper.QC3, Ajdovina 1, tel. +386
(0)31 303 777, www.malaterasa.com. Open 11:00 -
17:00. Closed Sat, Sun.
Marley & Me
Acres of stripped pine, friendly professional service
and one of the best kitchen smells in the city, this in-
timate bistro-type restaurant comes highly recom-
mended. Standouts from the small yet varied menu
include the large and tasty salads, delicious pastas,
traditional Slovenian food and some truly memorable
meat and fish dishes. Be warned though, the place is
immensely popular, and waiting for a table during
the day is a common occurrence.QD4, Stari Trg 9,
tel. +386 (0)8 380 66 10/+386 (0)40 564 188, www.
marleyandme.si. Open 11:00 - 23:00. (3-22) .
PJ A 6UGBXSW
Italian
Mirje Italian Restaurant
Mirje combines a sleek, contemporary ambiance with
quality traditional Italian cuisine at reasonable prices.
The soft lighting, beige walls and futuristic mirrored light
fixtures create a pleasant setting to savour the outstand-
ing dishes, such as succulent steaks from the Green Egg
grill, a wide selection of fresh handmade pastas, superb
salads and piping hot pizzas from the wood-fired oven.
Theres also a large outdoor seating area, which is covered
in the colder months and plays host to an open grill in the
summer. Located just across the street from the Tobana
Mesto cultural and business centre, a few minutes walk
from the old town will get you here.QA4, Traka 5, tel.
+386 (0)1 426 60 15, restavracija-mirje.si. Open 11:00 -
22:00, Sat 12:00 - 22:00. PLB
www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket
Where to Eat
J URCICEV TRG 3
1000 L JUBLJANA
+386 40 349 329
info@paninoteka.si
www.paninoteka.si
BREAKFASTS
PASTA
MEAT DISHES
BURGERS
SALADS
SLOVENIAN DISHES
Paninoteka Restaurant
A long-time favourite of ours, Paninoteka is a cosy place
with a great old town location on a medieval square next
to Cobblers Bridge, offering wonderful views of the castle
directly above the terrace. The menu includes both Slo-
venian and Italian cuisine, including excellent homemade
gnocchi and ravioli, as well as some truly succulent steaks
and meal-sized fresh salads, all of which are compliment-
ed by award-winning local wine, and beer from Slovenia,
Belgium and England. They also do great, filling break-
fasts, and of course you can still find the best sandwiches
in town here.QC/D4, Juriev Trg 3, tel. +386 (0)40 349
329. Open 08:00 - 24:00. . PJABW
Mediterranean
Altrok
This elegant restaurant and wine bar is a great place to
enjoy a drink and gourmet nibbles while soaking up the
atmosphere of Ljubljanas Old Town - either outside on
the narrow cobbled street or inside under the restored
red brick ceilings and glowing Edison lights. The menu
is focussed on traditional cuisine from the coastal region
of Istria, with a diverse selection of hot and cold dishes
that all pair well with the extensive wine list, the latter
coming as no surprise since the place happens to be run
by Matja ok of the winemaking ok family, who also
supply the olive oil and brandies.QD4, Stari Trg 19, tel.
+386 (0)82 055 282, www.altroke.si. Open 11:00 -
01:00 (kitchen 12:00 - 23:00). . PJ A B
March - April 2017 35
 Where to Eat
PrNoni
Just outside the ring road in Vi, Oterija Pr Noni is an el-
egant oasis set beside a stream offering one of Ljubljanas
most delightful dining experiences. Pr Nonis popularity
(pays to book ahead) also rests on its delicious Mediterra-
nean cuisine featuring excellent seasonal ingredients, fresh
local seafood and perfectly grilled meats as well as one of
Ljubljanas best wine lists. Despite its incredibly classy feel,
EDITORS PICK
Deela Okusov
Sitting amongst the restaurants and bars along
Eipprova in Trnovo, there is a lot to like about this
gastropub. Deela Okusov has a meaty menu of
Slovenian and international dishes, with grilled
and smoked meats a speciality, such as 12-hour
slow-cooked, pulled pork poutine. Its ideal pub
food, pairing perfectly with the good selection of
Slovenian and imported beers on offer. The cosy
interior and hearty food will warm up customers up
in winter, whilst on a nice day the street terrace is
the place to be. Unusual for Slovenia, Deela Okusov
also roasts its own coffee.QC5, Eipprova 11, tel.
+386 (0)1 283 92 88, www.dezela-okusov.si.
Open 11:30 - 01:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 01:00. P6
GB K X W
36 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
the service is friendly and its refreshingly unpretentious,
offering actually very good value menus - especially, the
early light lunches (malice in Slovene), more substantial
3-5 course lunch menus and traditional weekend lunches.
QCesta v Gorice 1, tel. +386 (0)1 242 58 20. Open 10:30 -
22:00, Sat 12:00 - 22:00, Sun 12:00 - 17:00.
TaBar
This ultra-modern new concept restaurant and bar com-
bines Slovenian-style tapas with an excellent selection
of wines from some of the countrys top producers. The
menu has a strong Mediterranean influence, featuring
everything from tender prosciutto and salami to roasted
octopus and baked shrimp - all prepared with fresh lo-
cal ingredients in an open kitchen, where you can watch
the magic happen if youre lucky enough to find an open
seat. For those adverse to making decisions, there are
three- and five-course tasting menus selected by the chef
(our preferred option), while many patrons simply drop
in to sample a few glasses of wine. D-3, Ribji Trg 6, tel.
+386 (0)31 764 063, info@tabar.si, www.tabar.si. Open
Mon-Wed 10:00-24:00, Thu-Sat 10:00-01:00. Closed Sun.
PT J A 6 U G B W
Pizza
Foculus
Magnificently decorated once youre through the
slightly out of place automatic doors, with autumn
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
 Where to Eat
leaves painted on the vaulted ceilings and red, yellow
and orange plates built into the roof of the large wood-
fired pizza oven. The large and busy Foculus specialises
in 66 varieties of pizza, including 20 for vegetarians
and eight with seafood. The salads are also particularly
good. The place can get rather hectic in the evenings,
so dont be surprised if you have to wait a few minutes
for a table.QC-4, Gregorieva 3, tel. +386 (0)1 421 92
95, www.foculus.si. Open 11:00 - 24:00. (5.70-8.40).
PTJA6UGBSW

PARMA
A quirky little one, this. As well as a couple of or-
dinary tables, most dining here is done at the large
bar from where the food is cooked and served. Find
an empty stool, make your order and away you go.
And while youre waiting for your pizza to arrive,
take a look at the large photographs on the wall of
the construction of the area youre eating in. Find it
hidden away down the stairs and on the right at the
southern end of Maxi Market.QB/C-4, Trg Republike
2, tel. +386 (0)1 426 82 22. Open 10:00 - 21:00, Sat
11:00 - 16:00. Closed Sun. (3.90-6.20). TJ A i
6GBXSW

TRTA
Trta is the most frequently heard answer to the ques-
tion: Who makes the best pizza in Ljubljana? - and not
without good reason. Its wood-fired oven churns out
some truly delectable pies, which tend to be a bit more
substantial than most of the thin-crusted competition.
Our personal favourite is probably the Toskanska, with
rocket and pancetta among other toppings, but with
over 40 different pizzas crowding onto the menu you
wont be left wanting for choices. Located in a yellow
house along the right bank a short walk south of the
city centre, Trta comes highly recommended. QD-5,
Grudnovo Nabreje 21, tel. +386 (0)1 426 50 66, trta@
s5.net, www.trta.si. Open 11:00-22:00, Sat 12:00-
22:00. Closed Sun. PAG BS

QuiCk eats
BROdO
No, thats not a new Apple Store thats opened at
street level of the Metalka building, its Brodo, Ljublja-
nas trendiest sandwich shop. The minimalist aesthet-
ics are matched by an equally sparse menu, with only
five different sandwiches to chose from. However,
each of them are small culinary works of art, with so
much flavour packed between the brown, bagel-like
bread that we have no qualms calling them the best
sandwiches in town. Be warned that developing a
Brodo addiction wont be easy on the wallet though,
as they tip the scales at 5 each a bit pricey by Slo-
vene standards, but well-worth it in our book for the
exceptional taste and quality.QC-2, Dalmatinova 2,
tel. +386 (0)40 549 440. Open 08:00 - 16:00. Closed
Sat, Sun. . P J S
www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket March - April 2017 37
 Where to Eat

i n d i a n e x p r e s s

Trubarjeva 31, 1000 Ljubljana

typical slovenian sausage i n d i Mon.-Fri.:

a n e x p7.30
Open:
r e- 21.00
s s Sat.: 8.00 - 20.00
www.klobasarna.si Sunday & holidays closed

FRENCH STYLE AK with the famed sausage. Open to 23:00 until January
Located under the hulking Ajdovina building just off 7.QD-3, Ciril-Metodov 15, tel. +386 (0)51 605 017, www.
a busy crossroads, this French-style bakery whips up klobasarna.si. Open 10:00 - 121:00, Sun 10:00 - 15:00,
namaste_express_oglas_IYP_60x45.indd 19. 04. in
16 20.20
tasty snacks that, judging by the constant lines, tempt summer open till 23:00. JS
a fair number of workers from the surrounding offices to
extend their smoke breaks. Their freshly-prepared vien- NAMASTE INdIAN ExPRESS
noiseries, gourmet bread, sandwiches and salads cost As the name suggests, Namaste Indian Express is the
slightly more than the pre-packaged brands found in stripped down off spring of its parent restaurant, Na-
all the supermarkets, but are well-worth the premium. maste, which was the very first to bring cuisine from the
QC-2, Dalmatinova 2, tel. +386 (0)1 230 84 74, www. subcontinent to Slovenia all the way back in 2003. Locat-
pekarna-zak.si. Open 06:30 - 19:00, Sat 06:30 - 13:00. ed just around the corner from the famed Dragon Bridge,
Closed Sun. 0.50 - 3.00. J S the Express branch offers a wide variety of inexpensive
wraps and other filled-bread options, such as romali roti,
KLOBASARNA dosai, uttapam, tawa paratha and samosa, all of which
Its not often you find a restaurant where the menu consists are tasty and many of which are also vegetarian-friendly.
largely of one item, but when the famed Kranjska Klobasa Other dishes include the always popular chicken tikka
is the dish in question then thats really all you need. Tak- tandoori and daal tarka, while there are some delectable
ing its name from the city of Kranj, this hearty sausage was Indian desserts, as well as sweet, salty and mango lassis.
at the centre of so-called klobasa wars between Slove- QD-3, Trubarjeva 31, tel. +386 (0) 1 434 3530, www.
nia and Austria (and later Croatia) over the rights to the restavracija-namaste.si/. Open 07:30 - 21:00, Sat 08:00
EU-protected name. History and politics aside, this trendy - 20:00. Closed Sun. . P J A S
takeaway opposite the Cathedral is the best place to taste
what all the ado is about. They also serve the traditional NEW
Slovene dishes jota and riet, hearty stews that go great PRESNICA
This hole in the wall take away joint, located smack in
the centre of town on Preeren square, has become an
deliVery instant hit with locals chasing quick and healthy lunch-
es and snacks. The brainchild of a popular Slovene food
TOP CHEF blogger and cook, Presnica specialises in fresh mostly
Not to be confused with the long-running American vegan light meals - soups, salads and sandwiches. Yes,
reality TV with the same name, Ljubljanas Top Chef its a healthy vego place folks with prices to match but
is one of the citys premier delivery restaurants, with the food is actually delicious as well as good for your
both quality and prices that handily beat most of the body and the environment. Tasty gluten-free sweets
competition. The menu is focused primarily on wide and smoothies are also available, as is well made coffee,
variety of pizzas, salads and burgers, but we most of- which of course you can have with a range of milk al-
ten order one of the wraps, which come stuff with ei- ternatives. QD-3, Preernov trg 2, tel. +386 (0)40 797
ther succulent chicken roast beef or mozzarella sticks. 887, info@presnica.com, www.presnica.com. Open
And if youve got lots of mouths to feed, theres even 08:00-19:00, Sat 09:00-14:00. Closed Sun. J AS
a 1kg bucket of fried chicken. Special offers are usu-
ally available on the website, such as combo meals or SLOVELY PARK
20% off orders over 20. QCesta na Ronik 18, tel. Imagine the flexibility of a food court but the ambiance
+386 (0)30 611 633, info@topchef.si, www.topchef. of a stylish restaurant, and you have some idea of what
si. Open 11:00 - 22:00. AV Slovely Park has to offer. This attractive glass-fronted
venue, just by the Exhibition and Convention Centre,
38 Ljubljana In Your Pocket ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
 Where to Eat
hosts four independent businesses that work together to
provide something for everyone. Theres a grill with aged
meats, burgers and steaks, a bar with coffee and drinks, a
patisserie for bread and cakes, and a bistro with a menu of
more substantial dishes. Items from these can be mixed
and matched, so you get the best of all four. Daily specials, OPEN
plus special events, can be found online.QD1, Dunjaska
20, www.slovelypark.si. Open 07:00 - 20:00, Fri 07:00 - UNTIL
24:00, Sat 10:00 - 24:00. Closed Sun. 4AM
NEW
Subway
The ubiquitous American sandwich chain returned to EDITORS PICK
Slovenia a few years back and now also has a city centre
outlet. All of the fast food companys ads we saw a child Hia Kulinarike Manna
seem to have worked cause we still get frequent cravings Set in a colourful little house on one of Ljubljanas
for an Italian-style Marinara meatball sub. Apart from prettiest (and most overlooked) streets, Manna offers
their trademark freshly made sandwiches on store baked a divine selection of contemporary Slovene cuisine for
bread, Subway also offer salads and make sure to grab a breakfast, lunch and dinner. Meals are complimented
couple of moreish cookies. So, if you need a footlong fix with some tasty homemade desserts and large choice
while in town head to the arcade beside the Faculty of of both Slovene and foreign wines, as well as a sophis-
Arts or filofaks as the locals say. ticated selection of spirits (aged rums, cognacs and
Subway also have an outlet in Beigrad, Dunajska whiskeys) and cigars for after dinner. A large garden
115aQC4, Slovenska 1, tel. +386 (0)40 818 588, www. and terrace in the back is open all year, and many
subway.com/en-si. Open 07:00 - 24:00. PJS people come here to enjoy a coffee, sweets or light
snack.QC/D5, Eipprova 1a, tel. +386 (0)5 992 23 08,
SurfnFries www.restaurant-manna.com. Open 12:00 - 23:00,
We recently began noticing people carrying around Sun 12:00 - 21:00, holidays 12:00 - 22:00. . PT
boxes of fries (or chips as we would say) in the city cen- JA6UGBS
tre, and it turns out that this place is the culprit. Were
still not sure where the surf part of the name comes in
(as seafood is not on the menu), but they do offer heap-
ing portions of fries prepared in a variety of ways and
accompanied by a selection of sauces, as well as some
deep fried chicken dishes to satisfy the non-vegetari-
ans. Open late, because everything fried tastes better
after a night of drinking.QC3, Plenikov Trg. Open
06:00 - 04:00, Sat 08:00 - 04:00, Sun 16:00 - 24:00.
2.10-4.50.

Burek
Burek Olimpija
Not one of our personal favourites, but judging by the
crowds milling about outside around the clock were
in the minority. It was also the runaway winner of our
online poll. The servings are huge and always hot, with
four varieties of pie to choose from: cheese, meat, apple
and pizza - the latter being the overwhelming favourite
among customers. Just around the corner from Bavar-
ski Dvor.QD2, Slovenska 58. Open 00:00 - 24:00. 2.
JN X S

Nobel Burek
A small kiosk close to the train and bus stations churning Gourmet Slovenian Cuisine
out steaming hot burek as well as pizza for those who like Eipprova 1a, Ljubljana
to do their fine dining in the street. Excellent value, excel-
lent burek.QD2, Mikloieva 30, tel. +386 (0)12 32 33 www.restaurant-manna.com
92. Open 24hrs. (2). J6UXS
www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket March - April 2017 39
 Where to Eat
be there or
be square
PE HM Mercator ika, Horse was also twice selected by our readers as the Best
Cesta ljubljanske brigade 33
& BTC, Rudnik, tel. +386 (0)1 521 14 27, www.hot-horse.
PE Ljubljana Rudnik,
Jurkova cesta 225
www.larsandsven.si
40 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
burgers
HOOd BURGER
A fast food favourite from the outskirts of town, and one
of our best burgers for 2017, now has a home in the cen-
tre of Ljubljana, with Hood Burger opening a new branch
just a short walk from Preeren Square. Here youll find a
concise menu that has exactly what you want, as long as
thats fries and burgers, chicken or beef, that you can cus-
tomise with range of toppings. All food is cooked fresh,
so its not as fast as some rivals, but you get a pager when
you place your order thatll buzz and flash when its time
to pick your meal up. While youre waiting, just relax with
a soda or beer.QNazorjeva Ulica 4, www.hoodburger.
si. Open 11:00 - 0:00.
HOT HORSE
A true Ljubljana institution, a stop at Hot Horse is a must
for all first-time and returning visitors. The legendary
horseburger is not only an original Slovenian creation,
but is also healthy, low in fat and rich in protein and iron,
and the menu now boasts a wider variety than ever be-
fore, including wraps, steaks and hot dogs, all of which
come with your choice of toppings and condiments. Hot
Fast Food restaurant in Ljubjana. Visit their large modern
kiosk near the arena in Tivoli Park, or their other outlets in
BTC and Rudnik near Rutar.QB-2 / M-3 / M-6, Tivoli Park,
si. Tivoli branch open 09:00 - 06:00, BTC 09:00 - 01:00,
Fri-Sat 09:00 - 06:00, Rudnik 09:00 - 24:00. . J6i
UBXS
LARS & SVEN
Voted the best burger joint in Ljubljana by In Your Pocket
readers in 2016, making the trip to the Rudnik shopping dis-
trict (LPP bus 3 or 27) to visit Lars & Sven is well worth the
effort for lovers of Americas most famous culinary contribu-
tion. In addition to frying up arguably the best burgers in
town, Lars & Sven prides itself on sustainable, socially-con-
scious business practices, which means sourcing organic in-
gredients from local butchers and nearby farms, and baked
goods from the Janez Levec Institute for people with special
needs. This not only supports the local economy and mi-
nimises carbon emissions, but perhaps more importantly
guarantees the freshest and highest quality food. Speaking
of which, our meal of choice is the eponymous Sven burger,
which comes with crispy bacon and onions caramelised
with beer and balsamic vinegar or their famed Blackadder
burger with Australian Angus beef, crispy Istrian pancetta,
fig sauce and aged English cheddar on an tasty black char-
coal bun.QM-6, Jurkova 225, tel. +386 (0)51 614 199,
www.larsandsven.si. Open 10:00 - 22:00, Sat 11:00 -
22:00, Sun 11:00 - 15:30. . ALBS
MCdONALdS
Its McHere if you McNeed it, perhaps the most popular
fast food chain in the world, offering a reliable menu for
when you want a taste of home, wherever that may be.
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
 Where to Eat
With a total of six locations in Ljubljana alone, including
inside the train station (07:00-23:00), BTC City (07:00-24:00, www.mcdonalds.si
McDrive 00:00-24:00), Kolosej (07:00-01:00, Sun 08:00-
01:00), Rudnik and ika, with the latter two open 24/7,
and all offer free WiFi, friendly service and smiles for the
whole family. Look out for local specials, and two things
to remember: ketchup must be ordered as an extra, and
youll get a code for the bathroom on your receipt.QC-3,
opova 14, tel. +386 (0)1 251 12 60, www.mcdonalds.
si. Open 07:00 - 24:00, Sun 08:00 - 24:00. PTJGi

ONE
BXSW

POPS PLACE
Located in the heart of the city centre, Pops Place is

ND ONL
Ljubljanas only self-described burger bar, and even
in the heat of the ongoing burger mania it manages
to stand out from the competition, with its 100% Slo-
vene beef aged in-house and accompanied on the
bun by the highest quality ingredients in some truly

Big Mac
unique combinations. The menu also features fish and
chips, onion rings and Kansas City style barbecued
ribs, while Taco Thursday gives even those who are
burger-weary an excuse to drop by and enjoy the live-
ly atmosphere with a craft beer or premium cocktail.
QCankarjevo Nabreje 3, tel. +386 (0)59 042 856.
Open 12:00 - 24:00.

seafood
VALENTIN
Taking its name from the famed Slovene priest, poet
and journalist, Valentin Vodnik, the restaurant is situated
opposite his statue just north of the central market, and
shares its premises with a fish mongers from which fas-
tidious diners can select their own fish. The main dining
area has been carefully restored, with attention given to
seemingly every detail - from the copper covered wiring
to the heavy wooden furniture to the low arched brick
ceiling. Aside from the expectedly wide variety of fish,
our favourite dish is the fresh succulent calamari (easily
amongst the best in town), while unbelievably cheap
lunch specials (3-7) can be ordered to take away all day.
QD-3, Vodnikov Trg 5, tel. +386 (0)59 041 111, www.
restavracija-valentin.si. Open 10:00 - 23:00, Sat 09:00 -
23:00, Sun 12:00 - 23:00. . J A B

VINO & RIBE

The name really says it all here: wine and fish! Best de-
scribed as a gourmet takeaway seafood joint, the menu
consists entirely of sardines, picarels and calamari, which
are either fried or grilled (in a Green Egg) and served up
piping hot, while the lone side dish is some of the best
fries in town, namely, wedge-style potatoes with the
McDrive McCafe
skins left on. Wine comes in two typical Istrian varieties, restaurants restaurants
Malvazija and Refok, and flows quite liberally by the litre BTC martinska 154 opova 14
or half-litre. Minimal, modern, inexpensive and delicious Premrlova 12 Kolosej, martinska 152
is definitely a winning combination in our book.QD-4, Celovka 170 Premrlova 12
Stari Trg 28, tel. +386 (0)31 323 252. Open 11:00 -
23:00. . J A B S
www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket March - April 2017 41
 HH-oglas_ourSlovenia mali feb 17.pdf 1 24.2.2017 15:13:57
Where to Eat
www.hot-horse.si
C
ONLY
D THE
M
E FIRST AN EBURGER
TH RS
AL HO . 16:00, Sat 08:00 - 14:00. Closed Sun. JBS
Y
ORIGIN HE WORLD
IN T
CM
MY
Give it a try,
CY while you are
in Ljubljana!
CMY
w.f
K
soCially ConsCious
GOSTILNA dELA
A remarkable little restaurant on Poljanska Cesta, Gostilna
Dela is exactly the type of place we hoped to find when
we moved to Ljubljana many years ago. A special focus
is given to creating employment opportunities for local
youth that would be otherwise excluded from the work-
ing world. We could wax lyrical about the social responsi-
bility side of things (see the Poljanska 7-14 box for more in-
formation), but the quality of the food demands attention
in its own right. A variety of daily menus are on offer (meat,
fish and vegetarian of course), and you wont find a restau-
rant more in tune with the desires of its customers. Any-
one visiting Dela without trying the homemade truklji is
also missing out on something truly special.QE-3, Poljan-
ska 7, tel. +386 (0)51 491 491. Open 08:00 - 16:00, Thu
08:00 - 16:00, 17:00 - 20:00. Closed Sat, Sun. JAG
POd STREHCO
A collaborative venture by a number of Slovene charities,
the non-profit Gostilna Pod Strehco is as much a commu-
nity hub as it is a restaurant. Its main mission is to feed
locals struggling to get by, during the week preparing
hundreds of subsidized hearty meals. The humble can-
teen located opposite the Moste Trnica (Market) is also
open to everyone, serving up a good range of freshly
prepared lunches costing just 3. Supporting a worthy
cause has never been easier, just head along for a tasty
cheap lunch or coffee at Pod Strehco and youll be helping
to feed someone in need.QM-4, Zalovka 42, tel. +386
(0)70 332 299, www.podstrehco.si/. Open 07:30 - 16:00.
Closed Sat, Sun.
UILNA OKUSOV
An interesting new model for a cafe and deli, Uilna
Okusov (it translates to classroom of flavours) is a joint
venture by three Slovenian vocational schools. Located
beside Dragon Bridge at the Ljubljana Central Market, it
is an outlet for quality regional products - much of it or-
ganic and some produced by students themselves. Uilna
Okusov teaches students hospitality and retail skills, whilst
giving market goers and tourists alike a taste of traditional
Slovene foods either to take away or stay for a tasty great
42 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
value daily lunch with a glass of wine, or else drop by for a
turkish coffee and delicous sweet treat. QD/E-3, Adami-
Lundrovo nabreje 1-7, tel. +386 (0)1 292 77 85, ucilna.
okusov@bic-lj.si, www.ucilnaokusov.si. Open 08:00 -
steakhouses
ARGENTINO
The journey out to BTC is well worth the effort, for Argen-
tino really needs to be experienced to be believed. Huge
and based on a classic Argentinean hacienda on two levels
with further seating outside, the interior designer had a
great time thinking this one up. Featuring vast paintings,
enormous mirrors, video projectors, a fabulous bar and
an even lovelier open kitchen, which turns out a dizzying
array of mouth-watering Latin American dishes includ-
ing some of the best steaks in Ljubljana. Theres also an
excellent wine cellar with some 130 different Argentinean
wines.QM-3, martinska 152 (BTC), tel. +386 (0)1 523 36
30, www.argentino.si. Open 09:00-23:00, Fri-Sat 09:00-
24:00, Sun and holidays 12:00-17:00. (5.20-45). PTi
AR6UILGBXSW
HILLBILLYS
In the city centre, but down a side street, through a passage-
way, across a courtyard, around a corner and down some
stairs, when you finally step through the door you feel a bit
like youve found a hidden old-timey saloon. Although the
menu includes things like soup, salad and pasta, there are
really only two primary reasons to come here: meat and
beer. The latter comes in the form of Steigel on draught
(among others), while the most popular food options are
chicken wings, pork ribs, burgers and steaks. Our visits usu-
ally include over-ordering side dishes like baked potatoes
with bacon, onion rings and mozzarella sticks.QKersnikova
5, tel. +386 40 503 636, www.hillbillys.si. Open 10:00 -
22:00, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 24:00. Closed Sun. JABW
Vegetarian & Vegan
AjdOVO zRNO
Ajdovo Zrno is a small restaurant with a big heart and
plenty of healthy food without animal products, white
flour, white sugar, artificial colouring or flavours. If you are
looking for a healthy option head along to Ajdovo Zrno
for a fresh, delicious and sustainable lunch. A relaxing
nook with a cute terrace just steps from Preeren square,
the restaurant serves daily cooked and raw meals - gluten
free options also available - plus they have the biggest
and perhaps the best salad bar in town and tasty sweets
among which the chocolate brownie and baklava are a
must.QD-3, Trubarjeva 7, tel. +386 (0)40 832 446, www.
ajdovo-zrno.si/. Open 08:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun.
(2-8). PJABS
BARBARELLA ARKAdE BISTRO
After a night out in Ljubljana you may wonder how the lo-
cals keep so trim and shake off hangovers. Our own secret:
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

healthy eating and smiles, both of which are in abundance at
Barbarella Arkade Bistro. Located by the Central Market, this
newly opened caf has a full vegan menu with soups, salads,
sandwiches, burgers, cookies and cakes. With outside seat-
ing so you can enjoy the view, this is, truth be told, not only
one of the few vegan cafs in town, but one of the best cafs
overall. Chef Barbarella also offers a light and vibrant breakfast
menu to start the day off right, no matter how your evening
ended.QD3, Adami Lundrovo Nabreje 3, tel. +386 (0)41
779 887, www.barbarella.si. Open 08:00 - 17:00, Fri 08:00 -
23:00, Sat 08:00 - 14:30. Closed Sun.
Bazilika Bistro
A Mecca for lovers of fresh, healthy, organic foods, Bazilika
is located in a beautiful high-ceilinged space in the city
centre opposite the Presidential Palace and just around
the corner from the Academy of Fine Arts. While countless
proprietors claim to use only fresh locally-sourced ingre-
dients, Bazilika actually posts photos of daily visits to local
farmers, markets and gardens to their social media pages,
assuring patrons that the various sandwiches, sweet and
savoury pies, salads, soups, smoothies and other veg-
etarian and vegan-friendly treats that they turn out are
as authentic as they are delectable. Daily 3-course lunch
specials are written on the roll of brown recycled paper
behind the counter.QB4, Preernova 15, tel. +386 (0)1
244 62 75, www.bazilika.si. Open 07:00 - 23:00. Closed
Sat, Sun. iJABSW
Proud winners of our Best Lunch Break poll for 2015, Bazilika Bistro is a vegetarians wonderland
www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket
Where to Eat
Organic Garden
Long a fixture of Ljubljanas burgeoning foodie scene in
various locations around town with an unmistakable vin-
tage food truck dubbed the green pig, as well as at culi-
nary events such as Odprta Kuhna Organic Garden now
has a permanent address to call home, on Ciril-Metodov
Trg just opposite the Cathedral. Vegan-friendly sandwich-
es, burgers, soups, salads, smoothies and other tasty treats
are served up in a bright, minimalist interior, which has
quite a bit of seating at high wooden tables. However, we
usually get our order to take away, as the riverside, castle
hill and plenty of other cosy spots to dine are within easy
walking distance.QCiril-Metodov Trg 11, tel. +386 820
54050, www.organic-garden.eu. Open 10:00 - 19:00,
Sun 10:00 - 18:00. PJABS
Zaiv Vegan Bistro
After the success of Zaiv in Bled, owner Denis opened
this fantastic vegan bistro in the heart of student Ljublja-
na. Most famous for its burgers, but also serving a variety
of wraps, pizzas, pies and cakes, this all-vegan bistro is
one well happily go without meat for. In addition to the
food and drink - coffees, teas, juices and beers our fa-
vourite part is the comfy reading area, lined with books
in English, German, French and Slovene, all available to
read or buy. A great place to get a quick bite or relax over
a long coffee.QRimska cesta 23, www.zaziv.si/. Open
07:30 - 21:00, Sat 11:00 - 21:00, Sun 11:00 - 20:00.
March - April 2017 43
Trubarjeva cesta 7 + 386 (0) 41 832 446
/ajdovozrno
1000 Ljubljana www.ajdovozrno.si

World Cuisine
Skuhna
A truly unique culinary and social venture, Skuhna was es-
tablished by a Slovene non-profit to help better integrate
the countrys vibrant migrant community, while at the same
time offering locals the opportunity to experience diverse
foods and cultures from around the world. The restaurant is
the only place in town to try authentic cuisine from places
such Algeria, Zimbabwe and Iran. The project initially pro-
vided training for several full-time chefs, who now organise
an ongoing programme of lunches, dinners, workshops and
catering services from their full-time restaurant on Trubar-
jeva ulica. A full calendar of upcoming events, daily menus
and lots of other info can be found on the official website
and Facebook page.QE3, Trubarjeva 56, tel. +386 (0)41
339 978, www.skuhna.si. Open 11:30 - 17:00, Thu, Fri
11:30 - 22:00, Sat 12:00 - 20:00. Closed Sun. PTJE
Zlato Runo
Opened in 2007 in a residential district (upanieva Jama)
just north of the main train station, Slovenias only Geor-
gian restaurant is still an unknown to many locals despite
being just a short walk from the city centre. This is a shame,
as the flavourful Georgian cuisine served at this family-run
place is authentic, tasty and unlike anything youll find
elsewhere in the city. The most popular item on the menu
is haapuri, a delicious baked flat bread filled piping hot
cheese, while a small but extremely diverse selection of
both meat and vegetarian dishes are also available, and no
meal is complete without at least one glass of Georgian
wine or brandy. QF-1, tihova 2, tel. +386 (0)59 047
107, +386 (0)31 845 863, info@zlatoruno.si, www.
zlatoruno.si. Open 10:00-22:00. Closed Mon. BS
Around Ljubljana
If youre looking to get out of town and enjoy a traditional
home-cooked meal in the countryside - and we highly sug-
gest that you do - the restaurants listed below are a great
place to start!
Boschtiz
This newly opened caf, bar and bistro is in iska, about ten
minutes out of town, but those who make the trip will be
rewarded with a menu of very reasonably priced dishes and
daily specials. The place opens early for breakfast and coffee
and then stays open late, taking in lunch and dinner along
the way. In the evening the lights dim and its a great place
for cocktails and drinks, with a large selection of quality
spirits kept behind the bar, and a special focus on rum. We
recommend a visit if youre in the neighbourhood, whatever
the time of day.QK3, Litostrojska cesta 56, tel. +386 (0)51
640 096. Open 07:00 - 22:00. Closed Sat, Sun.
Dvor Jezerek
Generally when a restaurant is awarded a title such as Taste
Slovenia - Culinary Centre, you can be sure that what you
will find within will tickle each and every taste bud, and this
www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket
Where to Eat
is for sure true with Dvor Jezerek. A Slovenians Slovenian
restaurant in the little village of Cerkle na Gorenjskem just
2km from Ljubljana airport, it has taken the culinary tradi-
tions of the country, sprinkled a little modern seasoning and
created something excellent.QZgornji Brnik 63, tel. +386
(0)4 252 94 10, www.jezersek.si. Open 12:00 - 22:00, Sun
12:00 - 17:00.
Evergreen
Located at the prestigious Diners Golf & Country Club in
Smlednik just northwest of Ljubljana, Evergreen is the flag-
ship restaurant of the Kaval Group, which operates over
a dozen restaurants in and around the capital. Even for
those not with no interest in golf, Evergreens idyllic set-
ting makes an attractive destination for lunch or dinner,
especially when the weather permits dining outside. The
gourmet menu is a feast for the eyes (and wallet), while
the daily lunch specials during the week are a great value
starting at only 10. QSmlednik 200, Smlednik, tel. +386
(0)5 921 17 43, +386 41 366 249, evergreen@kaval-
group.si, www.evergreen-restavracija.si. Open 08:00-
22:00. PTALB
Gostilna Mihovec
Only a short drive from Ljubljana, this family-run restaurant
with more than a century and a half of tradition offers an
unbeatable combination of excellent modern Slovene cui-
sine and genuine rural hospitality. Most of the ingredients
are not only organic and locally-sourced, but come from the
familys own farm or from their neighbours, a fact which led
to Mihovec being one of the original members recognised
under the Gostilna Slovenia brand. There is often live tradi-
tional music in the evenings, while we usually stop by for
a long lunch at the weekends whenever we have the time.
QZgornje Pirnie 54, Medvode, tel. +386 (0)1 362 30
60/+386 (0)31 684 434, www.mihovec.com. Open Wed,
Thu 12:00 - 23:00, Fri, Sat 12:00 - 01:00, Sun 11:00 - 18:00.
Closed Mon, Tue. TLEB
Gostie Gri
In the little village of entjot na Horjulom is the delight-
ful little inn called Gri, and delightful is most definitely
the right word. Many places may claim the old traditional
food with a modern twist, but Gri brings it to the table
and then backs it up with the taste. Everything used in
their dishes is sourced locally, be it the cheese, the meat,
the eggs, vegetables, everything. The emphasis is on sea-
sonal dishes too, so expect a completely different menu
depending on the time of year. It also organises various
sporting events throughout the year in its picturesque
surroundings. Qentjot na Horjulom 24d, tel. +386 (0)1
754 01 28, +386 (0)41 25 69 90, info@gric.si, www.gric.
si. Open 10:00-22:00, Wed 10:00-13:00.PT6UB
More restaurants online at
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
March - April 2017 45

Photo: Tomo Jeseninik / Tourisnm Ljunljana
Eat Like a Slovenian
Traditional Slovenian food has truly come back to the fore
in recent times, leading to more exposure for restaurants
specialising in dishes eaten by families at home over the
centuries. But what are some of the specialities to look out
for? Let us guide you! Kranjska Klobasa is a heavily smoked
sausage traditionally eaten with sauerkraut and fermented
turnip, which is much tastier than it sounds. Emperor Franz
Josef once famously proclaimed that it is no ordinary sau-
sage, and we tend to agree. Continuing on the sausage
front, Krvavice is, simply, blood sausage. Mentioning the
GOSTILNA / RESTAURANT
Odprto / Open:
vsak dan od 8. do 24. ure
every day from 8 to 24 o'clock
Stari trg 21, Ljubljana / T +386 (0) 82 052 506
E druga.violina@center-db.si www.facebook.com/drugaviolina
46 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
word blood when discussing food might conjure up a few
strange looks, but krvavice is well worth getting over any
pre-judgements for. Suffice to say, Bogra is a must for all
meat-lovers. A thicker than thick stew that takes its name
from the large pot in which it is cooked, bogra is along the
same lines as goulash, but with something special about it
all the while.
Known all over Slovenia, truklji is a very characteristic dish
that comes in a few different forms. Made from different
kinds of dough and coming with a huge range of fillings, the
most adored can be found in spring and summer stuffed
with tarragon. Cottage cheese is also a popular filling. A
thick stew made with barley porridge and dried meat, the
plain version of Riet is actually served in Slovenian prisons.
We hope youll never have to verify that. The ingredients of
Jota, a thick, hearty soup (or stew), depend on the seasons,
and it is almost guaranteed to chase away any and all ills. Id-
rijski likrofi are traditional Slovenian dumplings, and this
popular dish gained protected geographical status in 2010,
the first Slovenian dish to do so.
Those hankering after desserts wont be disappointed ei-
ther. Potica is a type of nut roll cake that has a seemingly
endless number of different fillings. Originally made using
cheese and eggs, it is the version of Gibanica that originates
from Prekmurje that tempts us the most. Adding a mixture
of apples, raisins, walnuts and poppy seeds as filling, it may
just be the nations most popular dessert. Dober tek!
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

At the revamped Zvezda at Hotel Slon its hard to tell what is more elegant the cafe or those decadent cakes. (Photo: iga Koritnik)
Bazilika Shop & Cafe
Right next to the courthouse and in one the busiest ar-
eas of Ljubljana, this caf is one of the closest things youll
find to an oasis in the city. As soon as you enter, you feel
how you leave the bustle and noise of the city behind and
are welcomed by very soothing music and dcor. A great
place to come and study, use your laptop or just surf the
net. Try the excellent coffee and sandwiches. Great service
too.QD2, Mikloieva 22, tel. +386 (0)41 530 539, www.
bazilika.si. Open 07:00 - 18:00. Closed Sat, Sun. PJ
SW
Kavarna MAO
If you plan on visiting Fuine Castle or the Museum of
Architecture and Design (MAO), then we recommend
getting a drink or a snack in Kavarna MAO. Set within the
castle itself, the caf is a living exhibit, designed by leading
local architects, furnished with the kind of chairs and ta-
bles that distinguished Slovenian interiors in the 20th cen-
tury, and often playing host to museum events. Operated
by the Kaval Group, the team behind some of the best
venues in town, the menu has all the usual caf favourites,
including coffees, teas, alcoholic drinks and cakes, but its
the setting that really makes it worth the trip. QPot na
Fuine 2, tel. +386 (0)1 29 26 400, mao@kaval-group.
si, www.kaval-group.si/KAVARNA_MAO. Open 10:00-
18:00. Closed Mon.
www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket
Cafes
Le Petit Caf
Close your eyes, and try to imagine a caf called Le
Petit that happens to be sitting on a square named
after the French Revolution. Le Petit caf will match
your imaginings and then some. Our first thought was
adorable, but there is so much more to it than this. An
excellent choice for breakfast or an afternoon coffee,
Parisian chic abounds with added elegance and grace,
whether you choose to sit outside or in the none-
more-romantic inside.QC4, Trg Francoske Revolu-
cije 4, tel. +386 (0)1 251 25 75/+386 (0)51 605 400,
www.lepetit.si. Open 07:30 - 01:00. PT J A
6U G B S W
Lolita
With absurdly high ceilings, exposed brick walls, great
views through huge plate glass windows and super
comfortable seating, this riverside caf leaves little to be
desired - the place even smells great thanks to bouquets
of fresh cut flowers at the entrance. Delectable-looking
cakes are displayed in specially-built cases, and gourmet
chocolates and teas are also on sale, as well as award-win-
ning cocktails. We didnt think Ljubljana had room for any
more cafs, but Lolita proved us wrong.QD3, Cankarjevo
Nabreje 1, tel. +386 (0)5 901 62 99/+386 (0)41 344 189,
www.kaval-group.si. Open 08:30 - 23:00. PJA6
GBXW
March - April 2017 47
 Cafes
Mr & Mrs Green
Ljubljanas a small town, so its always a little exciting
when new places open. However, its even better when
a new place is genuinely cool and offers something you
cant get anywhere else, and Mr and Mrs Green definitely
fits the bill. Ostensibly a caf and bar in a prime location
along the river, the owners have brought together an as-
sortment of their favourite things from Slovenia, Europe
and the world. Specialty coffee comes from a family-run
roaster in Florence, theres Delemain Cognac from Cham-
pagne, 23-year-old rum from Guatemala, cold brew
cocktails, top Slovene wines, the only proper bagels in
Slovenia, and homemade cheesecake that tastes like it
was flown in direct from New York. Check their Facebook
page for live music events during the summer months.
QD4, Cankarjevo Nabreje 15, www.mr-and-mrs.
green. Open 09:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 09:00 - 01:00.
Slovenska Hia
Slovenska Hia is exactly what it says on the tin: a 100%
Slovenian menu is found, covering beers, cocktails, li-
queurs and a wide variety of meat and cheese plates, as
well as some traditional dishes like truklji and Kranjska
klobasa. The interior resembles a market (albeit a mar-
ket with minimalist illustrations scribbled on the walls
and ceiling), but in warmer months most will chose the
delightful riverside terrace to sit and enjoy a refreshing,
inventive cocktail (served in jars no less), while watching
the world pass by.QCankarjevo Nabreje 13, tel. +386
(0)83 899 88 11. Open 08:00 - 01:00, Fri, Sat 08:00 -
03:00. JB W
Coffee and cake in style at Lolita
48 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
pica
The latest effort from the fabled Kaval Group, pica is
guaranteed to become a true summer favourite in Lju-
bljana. Situated at the pica itself, where the Ljubljanica
divides before entering the city, it is tailor made for
lounging on the riverside with a cold drink watching the
days go by. The modern bar does a great line in refresh-
ing cocktails, which go together almost too well with the
scenery. Dont be surprised to see spontaneous danc-
ing on the terraces as well.QGruberjevo nabreje, tel.
+386 (0)51 36 86 58, www.kaval-group.si. Open 08:00
- 17:00, Sat-Sun 09:00 - 17:00 (in Winter). T6 B
STA Travel Caf
Connected to the Ljubljana branch of STA travel via a
doorway at the back, this centrally-located caf is a
popular destination in its own. The terrace is loaded
with comfy wooden furniture, and inside is just as com-
fortable, with hot sandwiches, pizzas and other light
snacks on the menu. It also wouldn't be a travel caf
without the bi-monthly presentations of exotic locales
around the globe - check the chalk board for upcoming
events.QC2, Ajdovina 1, tel. +386 (0)1 439 16 90, fax
+386 (0)1 439 16 95, www.statravelcafe.com. Open
08:00 - 24:00. Closed Sun. PT J6GBXW
STOW
The cafe in the City Museum was previously called
Revolucionist and perhaps STOW should have kept the
original name since they are indeed revolutionising the
Ljubljana coffee scene. With their own boutique roastery,
an excellent range of coffees (on sale in the cafe) and a
La Morzocco - the formula one of coffee machines - plus
a brew bar even the most demanding (annoying) coffee
nerd will be satisfied. And if chemex and aeropress mean
nothing to you, its still worth visiting this hidden design-
er cafe which also has a sunny courtyard and delights
well beyond coffee including quality teas, tasty snacks
and sweets, local craft beers and boutique wines.QC4,
Gosposka 15, tel. +386 (0)1 241 25 32. Open 10:00 -
18:00, Thu 10:00 - 21:00. Closed Mon. PJ B S W
Zvezda
A bustling caf frequented by a battalion of clients
from students to pearl-laden old ladies. Zvezdas dcor
leans in the direction of your classic Buddha lounge,
with a scattering of Oriental statues and some fine
brown velvet wallpaper. Not the cheapest caf in town,
your money is at least well spent. The coffee is strong
enough to wake the dead, and the cakes are some of
the best and stickiest in town. They also have a few
more cafes about town, so if you need a sweet fix while
shopping at BTC head to Hala 12 or pause for coffee
and cake at the National Gallery (Narodna galerija); and
there is another Zvezda on the ground floor of Hotel
Slon. QC-3, Wolfova 14, tel. +386 (0)1 421 90 90,
kavarna.zvezda@siol.net, www.zvezdaljubljana.si.
Open 07:00-23:00, Sun 10:00-20:00. PT J UG
BSW
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
 Cafes
fruit juiCe & smoothies www.mcdonalds.si

Moments
VITAMIN BOx
This bright, green beacon of health can be found
on the northwest corner of Mikloieva park. Oper-
ating under the simple yet fitting slogan of fresh
and nice, Vitamin Box specialises in made-to-
order fruit juices, milk shakes and smoothies, with
the latter concocted from an almost endless list of
THAT MAKE
possible ingredients, from pineapple and pome-
granate to pistachios and protein powder. If youd
YOUR DAY
like to indulge in something a bit less healthy,
theyve also got several flavours of soft-serve ice
cream and frozen yogurt onto which you can pile
your own toppings, as well as various sandwich-
es, pastries and authentic Turkish baklava.QD-2,
Tavarjeva 6, tel. +386 (0)70 563 817. Open 07:00
- 20:00, Sat 08:00 - 20:00. Closed Sun. PT J i
AS

Coffee & Cakes

KAVARNA zVEzdA SLON
Zvezda has long been known for its drinks and desserts
on Wolfova ulica, and now its opened a new branch
in the Best Western Hotel Slon. Extending from the
lobby and looking out onto the street, the black marble
countertops, low lights and monochrome elegance of
the dcor make a good contrast to the colourful and
extensive range of cakes on offer. Theres all the local
favourites and international classics, as well as smooth-
ies, teas, coffees, sandwiches, snacks and more. The
famed ice creams were not on display on our visit, but
are listed on the menu, so do ask if you cant see what
you want. The late opening hours and central location
also make this a great spot for drinking when other
bars have closed.QD-3, Slovenska cesta 34, tel. +386
(0)1 470 11 46, www.zvezdaljubljana.si. Open Mon,
Tue, Wed 08:00 - 0:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 08:00 - 01:00, Sun
09:00 - 0:00.

MCCAF
All six McDonalds in Ljubljana have some form of
McCaf, but perhaps the most popular is the one on
McCafe
the main street of opova. While it may seem an odd restaurants
place to recommend in a city overflowing with more opova 14
traditional cafs, in truth theres something comfort- Kolosej, martinska 152
ing about the Golden Arches that keeps us going back.
With quick, reliable service, reasonable prices and a
Premrlova 12
range of quality cakes, pastries and drinks, youll find
locals and visitors alike popping in to take away a cup
or have or more leisurely break. WiFi is available, and
do keep your receipt - it has the code for the bathroom.
QC-3, opova 14, tel. +386 (0)1 251 12 60, www.
mcdonalds.si. Open 07:00 - 24:00, Sun 08:00 - 24:00.
PJAGBKXSW
www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket March - April 2017 49
 Cafes
EDITORS PICK
Ziferblat
It isnt entirely accurate to place Ziferblat in the caf
section, but its truly unique set up pretty much de-
fies categorization. Following on from openings in
London, Manchester, Moscow and Kiev (among oth-
ers) the Ziferblat project has moved into Ljubljana.
The doors are open to everyone, creating a great at-
mosphere for meeting new people and getting work
done. Everything within is free, with only your time
coming at a price, and even that price is low. All the
money goes back into the project as well.QVegova
8, tel. +386 (0)40 28 99 88, www.ziferblat.net.
Open 09:00 - 22:00, Sun 16:00 - 22:00.
Torta Ljubljana
This takeaway cake shop in the Plenik Arcade has much
more to it than meets the eye. To begin with its epony-
mous Ljubljana Cake is the only sweet we know of in town
that comes with its own creation myth, which involves a
fickle lord living in Ljubljana Castle, a beautiful daughter
waiting to be wed, and a plucky local chef who concocts
the perfect recipe. The retro-style cake has been recreated
using only typical Slovenian ingredients (including gluten
free 100% buckwheat flour) and can be purchased in sev-
eral sizes, all of which come in custom designed reusable
packaging. The cakes can now also be found at Kavarna
SEM, Nebotinik and Bar Kofi Plac at BTC.QD3, Adami-
Lundrovo Nabreje 1, tel. +386 (0)30 300 618/+386
(0)41 272 433. Open 08:00 - 16:00, Sun 09:00 - 14:00.
KAVARNA Wolfova 14 Slovenska cesta 34 (hotel Slon) martinska cesta 152 (BTC, Hala 12) Puharjeva 9 (Narodna Galerija) DELI Wolfova 12
www.zvezdaljubljana.si www.facebook.si/zvezdaljubljana
50 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
Coffee & Ice Cream
aROMA Gelato Experience
Youll have no problem finding gelato in Ljubljana this sum-
mer, thats for sure. With four locations dotted around the
city aROMA Gelato Experience offers just that, the promise of
homemade 100% natural gelato in a variety of flavours using
only the freshest ingredients. The main store can be found on
opova, along with scenic settings at Krianke, Petkovkovo
Nabreje and the Plenik Market. The experience part of the
name is no exaggeration either, so head out and see for your-
self. QC-3, opova 7, tel. +386 (0)70 77 07 77, info@aroma-
gelatoexperience.com, www.aroma-gelatoexperience.
com. Open 07:00-23:00. JABS
Cacao
Boasting an unbeatable location just steps from Ljubljanas
famed Preernov Trg, Cacao is the citys top destination for
ice cream lovers - overwhelmingly voted as having the best
ice cream in town in each and every In Your Pocket Best of
Summertime competition to date. Its large tree-shaded ter-
race along the banks of the Ljubljanica also gets top marks
for atmosphere, while the laid-back chocolate brown inte-
rior is a great place to chill out with a mouthwatering slice
of gourmet cake or freshly prepared fruit smoothie. One
of our, and seemingly everyone elses, favourites.QD3,
Petkovkovo Nabreje 3, tel. +386 (0)1 430 17 71, www.
cacao.si. Open 08:00 - 22:00, Fri, Sat 08:00 - 23:00, Sum-
mertime 08:00 - 24:00. PTJA6UGBSW
Vig
The last couple of years in Ljubljana have seen a raft
of excellent ice creameries open up and foremost
amongst them is Vigo. Located between Mestni Trg
and Tromostovje (the three bridges) we salivate every
time we walk past this elegant gelataria-cum-caf with
continuously flowing taps of dark and white chocolate
tempting from the window. Apart from stunningly
good gelato - we like it sandwiched in a brioche, i.e.
the Vigo burger - Vigo also offers cakes and very good
coffee. Upstairs is a chic space to relax over coffee and
cake, or grab a table on the pavement and people
watch with a cocktail.QD3, Stritarjeva ulica 4, tel.
+386 (0)8 205 64 28, www.vigo-icecream.com. Open
09:00 - 23:00, Sun 09:30 - 22:00.
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

As Aperitivo is perfect for a business lunch, or an afterwork drink (photo: As Aperitivo).
Bars
As Aperitivo
Now housed in slick ultra-modern premises that have
been the recipient of numerous design awards, this
long-running lounge bar is almost as much of a Ljubljana
institution as its namesake restaurant next door. A top
destination for the business set, Aperitivo is definitely
one of the citys more glamorous settings in which to
grab a drink, the whole place turning into a large open-
air terrace during the warmer months. Live DJs keep the
party going most nights, while the Italian head bar-
tender prepares some masterful creations for thirsty pa-
trons. Find it in a secluded courtyard just off of Preernov
Trg.QC3, opova 5 (Knafljev Prehod), tel. +386 (0)1
425 41 68, www.gostilnaas.si. Open 10:00 - 01:00.
J6 UB XW
Captains Cabin
The Captains Cabin is a lively bar with a nautical theme
located in the heart of the old town, with a huge range of
beers, big name and craft, but where it really shines is the
cocktails. Free popcorn with every order at the weekends,
and more special offers than you could shake a peg-leg at,
including a regular two-for-one deal on mixed drinks that
may leave your head spinning, so stay a while longer and
enjoy something from the menu of bar snacks. A great place
to get the party started or end the night. Live music and ka-
www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket
Nightlife
raoke may also occur.QKljuavniarska 5, tel. +386 (0)41
680 597, www.captains-cabin.com. Open 18:00 - 03:00.
Daktari
Sharing its name with the Swahili word for doctor, this place
always cures us of any bad mood were in. Located near
the Puppet Theatre and the funicular railway to the Castle,
Daktari is a labour of love that attracts an artistic crowd of
all ages. The bar exudes an old-time ambience and charm
that is a rarity these days: restored antique furniture, shelves
full of books, a player piano in the corner and a stage that is
occasionally used for live music sets, jam sessions, theatre,
cabaret and an eclectic mix of other cultural events. Very
cosy, very nice.QD3, Krekov Trg 7, tel. +386 (0)59 055 538,
www.daktari.si. Open 07:30 - 01:00, Sat 08:00 - 01:00, Sun
09:00 - 24:00. PJA6EBXW
Jet Bar
Were not entirely sure how, but Jet Bar has managed to
put together an interior with a very clear theme that man-
ages to be subtle at the very same time. As the name would
suggest all things aviation is celebrated, with the propeller-
esque fans a particularly nice touch. Beers, coffees, cocktails
and more are on offer, as well as pleasant outdoor seating
perfect for the day and plenty of dance space for the nights.
Qubieva ulica 1, tel. +386 (0) 8 381 16 20. Open 06:00
- 04:00, Sat 18:00 - 04:00. Closed Sun.
March - April 2017 51
Don't get stuck waiting! Be among the first
to get The Slovenia Restaurants book.
In recent months, together with the Expert Committee, Chefs & Foodies
Academy as well as all of you, we have selected the best restaurants in
Slovenia.

All 140 restaurants, which we can proudly

say represent the best Slovenia has to offer,
will be featured in the book, which will thus
present readers with ideas on where to go
for that business lunch, brunch on
a weekend trip or dinner for a special
occasion.

The book will be released at the end of

spring, while you can make sure you get
a copy by pre-ordering it.

To submit an order or if you have any

questions about the book, please contact us:
info@the-slovenia.com

Slovenia, placed on the culinary map of the world!

Partners
Finalists of the five Slovenian regions (placed in alphabetical order)

Finalists in the North Finalists in the West

Gostilna Danilo Domaija Klinec
Gostilna Kritof Gostilna Mahori
Hia Raduha Gostilna pri Lojzetu
Dvor Jezerek Gostilna Tomi
Vila Podvin Hia Franko

Finalists in the South

Gostilna Rakar
Gostilna Repov Finalists in Ljubljana and
Gostie Kapuin central Slovenia
Oterija Debeluh Gostilna As
Restavracija Grad Otoec Gostilna Belak
Gostilna Mihovec
Gostilna na gradu
Finalists in the East Gostilna Skaruna
Gostilna Rajh Gostie Gri
Hia Denk Restavracija Cubo
Pavus, Grad Tabor Restavracija JB
Restavracija Mak Restavracija Strelec
Sedem Sushimama

You can find more information at:

www.the-slovenia.com

General sponsor

NALEPE
 Nightlife
Adult Entertainment
Hard Core Club
With a name like that you cant help but smile and get
in a taxi and head here. The concept is simple: outstand-
ing erotic entertainment provided by professionals in a
safe environment for groups of lads of all ages and back-
grounds. Nobody pesters you to buy them extortionate
lady drinks, there is always something worth watching
on stage, and entrance is free. Drinks are reasonably
priced - even the erotic ones - and the girls who perform
here are on the whole of a far higher phwoar category
then elsewhere. DJs keep the tunes fresh, and the club
also offers free taxi transfers and a limo service. QG-3,
Dolgi Most 4, tel. +386 (0)41 71 66 12, info@hcc.si,
www.hcc.si. Open 17:00-05:00, Fri 17:00-07:00, Sat
21:00-05:00. Closed Sun.PJAG
Magda
Magda manages the rare feat of being super cool, com-
pletely authentic and refreshingly unpretentious all at
the same time. The minimalist interior features stripped
down walls, custom-made furnishings and original
Yugoslav-era tiling - something youd find in the so-
called ruin bars of Budapest or hippest neighbour-
hoods of Berlin. The diverse selection beer is matched
by the eclectic choice of spirits, all of which the friendly
barkeep will gladly explain in detail. Whats more, per-
haps the finest espresso in town is produced using a
manual hand-pulled machine, while croissant breakfast
sandwiches, heavenly meat and cheese plates, tins of
premium seafood and fresh oysters on ice highlight
the food menu. Truly unique and one of our personal
favourites!QD3, Pogaarjev Trg 1, tel. +386 (0)1 620
2 610, www.barmagda.si. Open 07:00 - 01:00, Sun
18:00 - 01:00. PJ 6 E B X den is also opened behind the main venue, which
Sombrero Bar
Located out in the suburb of Fuine, Sombrero sits next
to the highway and has an interior that one would ex-
pect from a bar with such a name. The walls are posi-
tively covered in photographs of Native Americans,
sombreros and other North American paraphernalia.
Beers, coffee and snacks are on offer, with cigars also
available to purchase. It is the cocktails that provide the
spark, with an interesting array available that go further
than what is usually on offer. Let the kids run wild in
the large playground. and treat yourself to a Barbados.
QNove Fuine 49, tel. +386 (0)41 57 63 92. Open
06:00 - 24:00.
Tozd
A favourite destination for Ljubljanas cool crowd from
seemingly the day it opened (if not even earlier), Tozds
carefully crafted interior boasts brick walls, red leather
benches, original photography from contemporary Slo-
vene artists, a number of fixed-gear bikes, and a bar de-
54 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
signed to resemble a kitchen counter. Theres also a large
library of books (including many in English) to keep you
busy on rainy days, whilst sampling gourmet coffee or
something from the impressive wine list. On nice days
take a seat outside under some giant trees along a quieter
stretch of the Ljubljanica river.QD4, Galusovo Nabreje
27, tel. +386 (0)40 699 453, www.tozd.eu. Open 08:30 -
24:00. TJABS
Clubs
Cirkus
Set on the premises of the former arthouse cinema Ki-
noklub Vi, Cirkus is one the of the more popular clubs in
Ljubljana - with lots of themed nights, live DJs and photo
albums posted to their Facebook page the morning after
parties (ie beware of the man with camera if you dont
want your drunk face making the rounds on social me-
dia!). Located just at the edge of the city centre opposite
the old tobacco factory, its easy walking distance from
most central hotels and hostels, and usually attracts a
youthful student crowd.QB4, Trg Mladinskih Delovnih
Brigad 7, tel. +386 (0)51 631 631/+386 (0)41 777 747,
www.cirkusklub.si. Open 22:00 - 05:00. Admission is
usually free before 23:00 and 5 after. Special events
and performances can increase the price though.
PJ A G
Gala Hala
As the main concert venue in Metelkova - Ljubljanas
regionally renowned independent cultural centre
- Gala Hala hosts an eclectic range of performances
several times per week, including many well-known
acts, while functioning as a club on other nights. The
state-of-the-art sound system and acoustics make it
a popular venue for both performers and audiences,
and from May till October a summer stage and gar-
can accommodate nearly 1000 people. Check their
website for a complete list of upcoming shows.QF1,
Masarykova 24, tel. +386 (0)1 43 17 063, www.
galahala.com.
Zoo
Breathing life into Tobana Mesto, the former tobacco
factory that has become something of a burgeoning
centre of arts and culture, Zoo is known for its frequent
live music concerts, lively atmosphere and friendly bar-
tenders and staff. Events are held at least two to three
times a week, with jazz on Mondays, and a rotating se-
lection of ethno, electro and more on other nights, the
former held upstairs and the latter taking place in the
more club-like space below, while things move outside
during the summer months. Cover prices are reason-
able as are cocktails and other beverages. See the offi-
cial Facebook page for info on upcoming events.QA4,
Traka 2, tel. +386 (0)40 533 301, www.zoo-club.si.
Open 07:00 - 24:00, Fri 07:00 - 05:00, Sat 11:00 - 05:00.
Closed Sun.
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
 Nightlife
Pubs
Corner Pub
Being British, we do love ourselves a traditional pub
style environment, and Corner Pub in Traka certainly
fits the bill. With 18 years of tradition behind it, more
than 40 different beers on offer and live sports events
on the projector, we only have good things to say. The
coffee is pretty good too, put together by professionally
trained baristas.QA4, Traka cesta 19, tel. +386 (0)1
425 58 01. Open 06:30 - 01:00, Sat 08:00 - 01:00, Sun
09:00 - 01:00.
Parlament Pub
Knowing neither whether its a caf or a bar, this pecu-
liar oddity with its books on the shelves, shady char-
acters and (youve guessed it) students is nonetheless
a popular stop for the heavy drinking younger crowd.
Known for cheap beer and cocktails (with three of the
latter had for the price of two), and lively international
parties almost every night, its a great place to both
start or end an evening out. The entrance and terrace
are at the back side of the building on Plenikov Trg.
QC3, ubieva 1, tel. +386 (0)1 251 32 43. Open
06:00 - 04:00, Sat 08:00 - 04:00, Sun 16:00 - 24:00.
PJ A 6 U E G B X W Fri, Sat 11:00 - 01:00. Closed Sun.
Editors PicK
mauc
Ask any tuned-in local to make a list of their favourite
bars and theyre almost certain to put this place on the
list. Covered in quality graffiti outside and always featur-
ing a huddle of interesting-looking individuals smoking
suspiciously large cigarettes by the entrance, the exterior
is but a mild prelude to whats inside. A smallish L-shaped
bar is packed day and night with more strange characters
amidst an interior design scheme straight from the pages
of a Manga comic. Excellent for coffee or something a
little stronger. Highly recommended.QB4, Rimska 21,
tel. +386 (0)1 251 03 24. Open 07:30 - 01:00, Sat 10:00 -
01:00, Sun 18:00 - 01:00. PJA6GB
56 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
Patricks Irish Pub
Ljubljanas quintessential Irish pub is popular with locals,
expats and tourists alike, and over the years weve person-
ally spent many a night entertaining visitors, watching
sports on the big screen and generally drinking too much
here. Theyve got a huge selection of beer, with some 90
varieties to choose from, and often host events such as live
Irish music concerts, pub quizzes and beer tastings. Find it
down a small cobbled alleyway just off Trubarjeva Ulica.
QD3, Prena 6, tel. +386 (0)1 230 17 68/+386(0) 41
581 333, www.irishpub-ljubljana.si. Open 17:00 - 01:00,
Mon, Sun 17:00 - 24:00. PTJA6EGSW
Pivnica Union
It may have taken 150 years, but the wait was most certain-
ly worth it. One of the Big Two of Slovenian beer, Unions
newly opened pub is a welcome addition to the brewery
complex. Located in the former workers canteen it retains
this workingmans feel, wrapped in a modern coating.
All of Unions beers are available on tap, including the
unfiltered version and a newly conceived speciality beer
conjured up by the brewing wizards. Something must be
eaten to soak up the beer of course, and beer-friendly food
is available for the cause.QB1, Celovka 22, tel. +386 (0)1
471 72 17, www.pivnica-union.si. Open 11:00 - 24:00,
Sir Williams Pub
An all together classier affair than most other pubs in
town, Sir Williams clientele is largely a reflection of its
location in the city centre between the national court-
house and Radio Television Slovenia, as well as several
business hotels. Boasting one of the largest beer selec-
tions in Slovenia, there are over 130 different varieties to
choose from, and the countrys best craft beer, Human
Fish, is always on tap. The atmosphere is generally warm
and laid-back, with patrons chatting to the staff about
beer or watching something on the big screen TV. Fol-
low their Facebook page for info about beer tastings and
other events. QD-2, Tavarjeva 8a, tel. +386 (0)5 99
44 825, sirwilliamspub@gmail.com, sirwilliamspub.
webs.com. Open Mon-Fri 08:00-01:00, Sat 10:00-14:00
and 19:00-01:00, Sun 17:00-24:00.PJ A BSW
Wine Bars
Dvorni Bar
Perennial winners of our Best Wine Bar poll, this large L-
shaped adventure is a pleasant caf during the day and
the citys trendiest wine bar by night. Theres a swanky
jazzy area at one end for more wine-oriented patrons,
while the other side is a little more geared towards the
restaurant crowd, with tapas and lunch specials on offer.
With upwards of 100 varieties of wine in stock its a great
place to sample local vintages if you dont have time to
trek out to one of Slovenias wine growing regions.QB3,
Dvorni Trg 2, tel. +386 (0)1 251 12 57, www.dvornibar.
net. Open 08:00 - 01:00, Sun 09:00 - 24:00. (4.50-15).
PTJHA6UEGBKXSW
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

How did one man build so much? Another of Pleniks unique creations, the Church of the Archangel Michael on the Ljubljana Marsh at Crna vas
Ljubljana Castle is arguably the main attraction for
visitors to the city, but all that lies beneath it from the
Old Town to Ljubljanas multitude of museums and
galleries are more than worthy of further investigation.
The extraordinary combination of treats, from the
architecture of Joe Pleniks to the historic atmosphere
of the Old Town to the occasional blast-to-the-past
burst of retro-Yugoslav city planning all work together
in harmony to create the most unique of cities.
Top Attractions
Cathedral (Stolnica Sv. Nikolaja)
With its classic twin towers and trademark single, weath-
er-worn green dome, the citys cathedral, more properly
known as St Nicholas Church, encapsulates everything
that is Ljubljana. Small and interesting, but not too exciting
at first glance, a longer look at its history and finer details
reveals its hidden charm and beauty. Built on the site of
a much earlier church, the cathedrals main structure and
appearance dates from the first half of the 18th century.
Inside the Baroque masterpiece is a cavalcade of classic
creams and golds, littered with extraordinarily detailed
frescoes and possessing that calming feeling that only a
great church can bring.QD3, Dolniarjeva 1, tel. +386
(0)1234 26 70, lj-stolnica.rkc.si.
Dragon Bridge (Zmajski Most)
Since it opened in 1901, Zmajski Most has been locked in a
fierce competition with the castle and the conspicuously pink
Franciscan Church for the title of Most Photographed Sight in
www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket
Sightseeing
Ljubljana. At any given moment during daylight hours (and
only slightly less frequently at night) there is sure to be at least
a person or two clicking away at one of the four large dragons
guarding either side of the bridge or the smaller griffins that
adorn the bottom of its eight lamp posts. Of course were no
exception, as we still remember the fog shrouded photo we
snapped on our first trip to the city way back in the forgotten
days of analogue film. More recently some amateur artiste ap-
parently felt that the mythical beasts were lacking a certain je
ne sais quoi and took it upon themself to add a smattering
of red paint to their mouths and claws. The jury is still out on
whether or not this is an improvement but it does amuse us
whenever we walk past.QE3, Resljeva Cesta.
France Preeren Monument
Slovenias national poet France Preeren (1800-1849)
stands in the square named in his honour at the foot of
the Triple Bridge. As well as offering an interesting visual
treat, the monument also serves as a focal point for people
meeting in the city. Erected in 1905, the large monolith is
the work of the architect Maks Fabiani and sculptor Ivan
Zajc and features the Muse of poetry holding a small laurel
of bay leaves over his head as well as extracts from his writ-
ing around the base.QD3, Preernov trg.
Franciscan Church (Franikanski Samo-
stan)
Built in an instantly recognisable, mildly swirly Baroque fash-
ion, Ljubljanas mid-16th-century Franciscan Church domi-
nates Preernov Trg like a big pink birthday cake. Part of a larg-
er complex with an additional Franciscan monastery, if youre
March - April 2017 57
 Sightseeing
Ljubljana Castle
Perched on top of Castle Hill (Grajska planota) and dom-
inating the city skyline to the south, Ljubljanas magnifi-
cent castle stands on the site of several former defensive
buildings in a hilly area of land stretching away to the
south of the old town. The current ensemble of build-
ings originates from necessary 16th-century recon-
struction work following the earthquake of 1511, with
several later additions.
The main points of interest for the visitor are the Outlook
Tower (Razgledni Stolp), built in the 19th century and
raised a further 1.2m by the government in 1982. The
towers Virtual Castle screens a 12-minute film showing
an interesting and informative history of the castle.
On the same floor you find a small door that takes you
to the top of the tower up some 100 red cast-iron steps,
each individually decorated with an image of the tower
and the citys dragon. A door at the top leads to a small
viewing platform (not for the faint hearted) with won-
derful views of the city.
A new and beautifully presented permanent Exhibition
on Slovene History is now also open for visitors - see
more info under Museums & Galleries. The castle also
has a small art gallery featuring temporary exhibitions,
a caf, restaurant and souvenir shop. Its also a popular
place for local weddings, and during the summer puts
on concerts and, in July, hosts an outdoor cinema. To
reach it, several small paths lead up from the old town,
or take the funicular next to the Puppet Theatre and
open market. Q Grajska Planota 1, +386 (0)306 42
93, info-center@ljubljanskigrad.si, www.ljubljan-
skigrad.si. Open 09:00 - 21:00. With funicular/with-
out funicular - adults 10/7.50, students/children/
seniors/groups 7/5.20, families 32/26. Funicular
return/one way - adults 4/2.20, students/children/
seniors/groups 3/1.50, families 26/19. Guided
tour 6-10. Special discounts for families.
58 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
lucky enough to find the doors unlocked expect a few treats
inside including Robbas 18th-century altar, some charm-
ing frescoes dating from 100 years or so later and a chapel
notable for containing a cross designed by none other than
Joe Plenik. For those who dont appreciate the finer points
of ecclesiastic architecture, the front steps do at least provide
a nice place to sit and watch the world go by on a gloriously
sunny day.QD3, Preernov Trg 4, tel. +386 (0)1242 93 00.
Preeren Square (Preernov Trg)
Formally a meeting place for several roads in front of one
of the old entrance gates to the city, and a public square
since Ljubljanas original defensive walls were torn down
in the middle of the 19th century, this is one of the citys
most important landmarks. Named after Slovenias nation-
al poet France Preeren (German, Franz Prescheren, 1800-
1849), its both a popular meeting place (notably under the
large statue of the man after whom the square is named)
and a site for concerts and events during the summer.
The charming little public space is ringed by a number of
interesting sights including the magnificent Art Nouveau
faade of the Urbanc House, an extraordinary piece of
early 20th-century flamboyance and site of the soon to be
reopened Centromerkur department store.QD3.
Tivoli Park
Tivoli is where the people of Ljubljana who dont leave the
city spend the weekend. Laid out in 1813 as a place for the
general health and recreation of the citys population, at
some five square kilometres, Ljubljanas gargantuan bu-
colic lung - literally two streets west of the city centre - is
so packed with good things to see and do that its almost
worth visiting the Slovenian capital just to come here.
Set amidst rolling hills, Tivoli Park is a pleasant mixture of
lawns (picnics encouraged: something of a shock in this
part of the world), pastures, wooded areas and fun adven-
ture playgrounds for the kids (who will love the mini-golf
best of all). The best way to enjoy the park is by bike, and
bicycles are available for rent from various points through-
out the park during the summer. You will need to leave ID
as a guarantee you will bring the bike back.
As well as its reputation as the top nature spot in the area,
Tivoli Park also houses a number of cultural sights includ-
ing the International Centre of Graphic Arts in the glorious
17th century Tivolski Grad (Tivoli Mansion), the Museum
of Modern History and, in the parks far southwestern
reaches, in an area designated as a nature reserve, the
citys half-decent zoo. Also look out for the monument to
Primo Trubar at the entrance to the park. Trubar was an
early force in Slovene literature and the creation of a Slo-
vene national identity.QA/B2.
Triple Bridge (Tromostovje)
Perhaps Ljubljanas most characteristic structure(s), the
triple bridge is a curious merger of a 19th century road
bridge (itself replacing a medieval wooden bridge), with
two 1930s pedestrian bridges designed by Plenik, who
took the opportunity to do up the whole ensemble with
lamps and stone balustrades.QD3.
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

The Skyscraper (Nebotinik)
Believe it or not, this lovely little skyscraper was, at
70 metres, the highest building in the Kingdom of
Yugoslavia and the ninth tallest high-rise in all of Eu-
rope when it opened on 21 February 1933. Nowadays
its a mixed-used building, with shops on the ground
floor, offices and residential units in the middle, and a
restaurant, caf and lounge bar occupying the the top
three floors - all of which offer excellent view of the
city, Alps and castle. QC-3, tefanova 1.
Cemeteries
ale Cemetery (Pokopalie ale) hibits including old photographs, clothing and household
Built on the site of a much earlier cemetery attached to the
neighbouring (and still standing) Holy Cross Church, whats
arguably Pleniks Ljubljana masterpiece was completed in
1940. The grand arched entrance complete with stark white
colonnades supposedly represents the gateway between
the lands of the living and the dead. Between them and the
cemetery itself are a series of peculiar buildings, chapels and
monuments including the ale funeral home. Architectural
styles abound, reflecting Pleniks vision of equality among
religions. The cemetery itself, once you get there, is a plea-
sure to behold and is worthy of a good hours stroll. The fi-
nal resting place of many Slovenian greats including Plenik
himself, ale also contains a small area given over to the
Jewish population of the city.QL/M2, Med Hmeljniki 2,
tel. +386 (0)1420 17 00, www.zale.si. Open 07:00 - 19:00,
April-September 07:00-21:00.
Sightseeing
modern day, the museum caters to adults and children alike.
Check out their fabulous website for details and upcoming
exhibitions.QC4, Gosposka 15, tel. +386 (0)1 241 25 00,
www.mgml.si. Open 10:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 21:00.
Closed Mon. Admission 4, students and children 2.50.
Temporary exhibitions 6, reduced 4, famiies 12.
National Museum of Contemporary His-
tory (Muzej Noveje Zgodovine Slovenije)
If you needed a reason to visit Tivoli Park, its here. This
fascinating museum inside a wonderful 18th-century
mansion presents the history of Slovenia from the period
around the start of WWI until the Slovenian Presidency of
the EU in 2008. Using a combination of well-presented ex-
items the museum charts the often wobbly path of the
nation through and between the two world wars and the
difficult and truly fascinating post-war communist years.
The building itself is worth seeing alone, being a marvel-
lous combination of original Baroque and the interesting
modernist work of the Slovenian architect Jurij Kobe, dat-
ing from 1991.QB1, Celovka 23, tel. +386 (0)1 300 96
10, www.muzej-nz.si. Open 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon.
In August, open till 20:00 on Tue, Thu and Sat. Admis-
sion 3.50 for adults, 2.50 for children, 8 family.

Monuments
Robba Fountain (Robbov Vodnjak)
One of the most famous landmarks in the city, this lovely
1751 fountain is named after its creator, the Italian Baroque
sculptor Francesco Robba (1698-1757), and is also known
as The Fountain of Three Carniolan Rivers. It was the last of
Robbas Ljubljana creations. The eight years it took him to
complete it essentially bankrupted the man, and he finally
left the city for Zagreb. Based loosely on the grand foun-
tains of Rome, the artists masterpiece features three river
gods, supposedly representing the Krka, Ljubljanica and
Sava rivers. Note the the monument standing in Mestni
Trg is a replica, the original having been moved inside the
lobby of the National Gallery in order to protect it from the
elements.QD3, Mestni Trg.

Museums & Galleries

City Museum (Mestni Muzej Ljubljana)
A magnificent museum run by a team of historians who
know how to show people a good time, its exhibits show-
case the history of Ljubljana in all its colours, both the good
and the bad. Featuring both permanent and temporary ex-
hibitions, this is the best place in town for a crash-course
in the citys history. From the worlds oldest wooden wheel
and axle to the Faces of Ljubljana, from the Roman era to A stroll along the central promenade in Tivoli is a must

www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket March - April 2017 59

 Sightseeing
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF SLOVENIA (NAROdNI
MUzEj)
Found lurking inside another of the citys fine, late 19th-
century neo-Renaissance buildings complete with fine
painted ceilings and elaborate sculptures on the stairs,
this is the oldest museum in country, founded way back in
1821. Permanent archaeological displays proudly show off
Slovenias unique past, including the worlds oldest musi-
cal instrument (a 60,000 year old Neanderthal flute) and
the famous situla from Vae. The museums collection now
spreads to another location in Ljubljanas museum quarter
in Metelkova.QB-3, Muzejska 1, tel. +386 (0)12 41 44 00,
www.nms.si. Open 10:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 20:00. Ad-
mission 4-8.5.
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF SLOVENIA - METELKOVA
The newest wing of the National Museum can be found in
Metelkova, the subversive beating heart of the city. Being
Metelkova it was always going to have an artistic spin with
what it offers, and we arent disappointed. The Slovene
Ethnographic Museum, Museum of Contemporary Art,
Slovenian Cinemateque and the Institute for the Protec-
tion of Cultural Heritage are all here, as well as a perma-
nent exhibition showcasing the heritage of applied art
throughout the country.QMaistrova 1, tel. +386 (0)1 230
70 30, www.nms.si. Open 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon.
PLENIK HOUSE (PLENIKOVA HIA)
Walking around Ljubljana you are guaranteed to encounter
the stunning architectural landmarks of Joe Plenik. Apart
from reading our excellent feature on the great man, the best
way to get know to who the man behind so much of this
beautiful city was, is to head to his former home in Trnovo.
Preserved and transformed into a museum, Pleniks home
from the street looks like many of the other old homes in the
area though the master designer left his mark on this house
too, expanding the original building with a cylindrical annex
and winter garden, as well as equipping the house and gar-
den with inventive furnishings of his own design. Permanent
exhibitions at the house showcase Pleniks substantial archi-
tectural legacy in Vienna, Prague and of course Ljubljana, as
well as give visitors a window into the eccentric designers
personal life and history. The museum can only be visited as
part of a guided tour.QK-4, Karunova 4, tel. +386 (0)1 24 12
60 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
506, prijava@mgml.si, www.mgml.si. Open 10:00 - 18:00.
Closed Mon, Only guided tours, scheduled every hour, last
one starts at 17:00. Admission 6, reduced 4, families 12.
Scheduled guided tours: up to 4 persons 30; 4 or more
persons 7 per person, reduced 5 per person.
THE SLOVENIAN SCHOOL MUSEUM
Currently housed in a former school, having been open
since 1898, this small museum recreates the institutional
atmosphere of former days with exhibits of old school
rooms, uniforms, equipment and books. Covering edu-
cation from Roman times to the twentieth century, this
is a place that every schoolchild in Slovenia visits at least
once, and will be of interest to all pedagogues and his-
torians. The front door takes some finding, but ring the
bell for entry, and ask for the printed guide in English if
not given one. Group visitors can email to arrange a 19th-
century demonstration class, in English or Slovene.QC-3,
Plenikov trg 1, tel. +386 (0)1 251 30 24, www.ssolski-
muzej.si. Open 08:00 - 16:00. Closed Sat, Sun. Open
every 1st Sat of the month 10:00 - 14:00. 2 for Slovenians,
1 for foreign visitors.
arChiteCture
COOPERATIVE COMMERCIAL BANK
(zAdRUNA GOSPOdARSKA BANKA)
One of the most unique, but not extremely well-known,
buildings in Ljubljana is the almost surreally colourful
Zadruna Gospodarska Banka (or Cooperative Commercial
Bank) on Mikloieva Ulica just north of Preernov Trg. De-
signed by Slovene architect Ivan Vurnik in 1921 and finished
the following year, the buildings unmistakable faade was
actually painted by his wife Helena, herself a Vienna-born
artist. While the building is squarely rooted in the Seces-
sionist movement, which itself is part of the wider Art Nou-
veau period, it also must be considered one of the finest
examples of Slovenian national style architecture, as the
faade and interior wall paintings is a stylised interpretation
of traditional Slovenian iconography. QMikloieva 8
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
 Sightseeing
Urbana Ljubljana
Tourist Card
Rated as one of Eu-
ropes best city cards,
Tourism Ljubljanas
Urbana offers free
admission to all of the
citys main sights as
well as free unlimited
transport LPPs exten-
sive urban bus network. The card can be purchased at
most hotels and all three of Ljubljanas Tourist Informa-
tion Centres (on Adami-Lundrovo Nabreje, at the main
train station and on Krekov Trg). Prices are 23/30/35 for
24/48/72 hours, and the card - which contains RFID chip
- is activated upon its first use. Order online and save 10%
of the regular price!Qwww.visitljubljana.com. 24-hour
card 23, 48-hour card 30, 72-hour card 35.
Tours
Ljubljanas Attractions and Art
Beginning in front of the Town Hall, the tour takes you
past many of the citys famous Art Nouveau buildings.
A walk along the promenade connecting the historical
city centre with Tivoli Park will bring you to the National
Gallery, which keeps Slovenias largest art collection. On
Mondays, when the gallery is closed, the tour includes a
visit to a rotating exhibition of large-format photographs
in Tivoli Park instead. After the gallery there are visits to
two of Ljubljanas central public squares, Trg Republike
and Kongresni Trg, the sites of a number of important
events in the history of Ljubljana. The tour includes a
stop at one of Ljubljanas traditional restaurants, where
you will have an opportunity to taste local Slovenian
dishes as part of a short tasting session.QMestni Trg, tel.
+386 (0)1 306 12 15, https://www.visitljubljana.com/
en/visitors/tours-and-trips/regular-city-tour-the-
sights-of-ljubljana-and-a-boat-cruise/. Tours depart
daily at 17:00 from Apr-Sept. Tickets 13, children un-
der-12 6.5, and can be booked online or purchased
at both TIC (Adami Lundrovo Nabreje 2) and STIC
(Krekov Trg 10).
Historical City Centre Tour
Beginning in front of the Town Hall, the tour takes you
through the historical city centre, whose unique archi-
tecture is the legacy of the Baroque and Art Nouveau
periods and, most notably, the work of the famed 20th
century architect Joe Plenik. The tour includes a stop
at one of Ljubljanas traditional restaurants, where you
will have an opportunity to taste local Slovenian dishes
as part of a short tasting session. Next the tour con-
tinues up to Ljubljana Castle via the funicular railway.
Standing on a hill above the city for some 900 years,
the castle is the citys main attraction. Participants will
62 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
learn about the castles fascinating history and get to
enjoy beautiful city views from the ramparts.QMestni
Trg, tel. +386 (0)1 306 12 15, www.visitljubljana.com/
en/visitors/tours-and-trips/. Tours depart daily at
10:00 (Apr-Sep) or 11:00 (Oct-Mar). Tickets 13, chil-
dren 4-12 6.5, and can be booked online or pur-
chased at both TIC (Adami Lundrovo Nabreje 2)
and STIC (Krekov Trg 10).
A beer lovers Experience of Ljubljana
Locals love their beer, but Ljubljanas brewing tradition
is far older than most people would imagine. In fact,
it goes back some four millennium, which was proven
by the discovery of 3,900-year-old beer barrels during
excavation the Ljubljana Marshes, a UNESCO Heritage
site just south of the modern city. The earliest known
brewery in Ljubljana dates back at least to 1592, and
by 1796 the city had six breweries, which all the more
impressive since it had less than 10,000 inhabitants at
that time. Meanwhile, recent years have seen a rapid
growth in the popularity of craft beers made by dif-
ferent microbreweries in Ljubljana and its surrounding
area. The Beer Experience Tour includes a stop in a local
pub, with participants getting to taste eight different
beers from five different breweries, two based in Lju-
bljana and three in other parts of the Central Slovenia
region. Afterwards, the tour continues to the award-
winning Brewery Museum at Pivovarna Union, where
the popular Union beer has been brewed since 1864,
and finishes at the brewerys own Pivnica Union pub.
QKrekov Trg 10, tel. +386 (0)1 306 12 15, tic@visitlju-
bljana.si. Tickets 35, and can be booked online or
purchased at both TIC (Adami Lundrovo Nabreje 2)
and STIC (Krekov Trg 10).
National University Library (Narodna
in Univerzitetna Knjinica)
Known to locals by its Slovene acronym NUK, the
library was originally established by Empress Maria
Theresa in 1774 and moved to its current Plenik de-
signed building in 1941. Aside from serving as one
of the countrys central educational and cultural in-
stitutions - containing some 2.6 million volumes -its
also considered one of the prolific architects most
monumental works, and is a must see for visitors to
Ljubljana. Highlights include the somewhat schizo-
phrenic brick and stone faade, the colonnaded
central staircase and the massive main reading room.
A planned expansion on nearby Zoisova Cesta has
been in the works for nearly 20 years, but has been
plagued by a host of problems - most notably caused
by the discovery of Roman ruins, which is a surpris-
ingly common occurrence in and around the city.
QC-4, Turjaka 1, tel. +386 (0)1 200 11 88, info@
nuk.uni-lj.si, www.nuk.uni-lj.si. Open 09:00-18:00,
Sat 09:00-14:00. Closed Sun.
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
TIMEMACHINE
FroM EMoNA To A CITy SyMbol
SIx TIME STATIoNS
SIx CoSTuMEd CHArACTErS
a Castle guide more than just a classic guided tour of the Ljubljana castle

JULIJ, AVGUST in
SEPTEMBER
vsak dan
11.00, 13.00, 15.00, 17.00
MARCH,
MAJ, JUNIJAPRIL
Saturday
vsak dan and Sunday
11.00,
11.00, 15.00
15.00
JANUAR, FEBRUAR,
MAREC, APRIL, OKTOBER,
NOVEMBER in DECEMBER
sobota in nedelja
11.00, 15.00

a 14r
st 20
a
j
n letdu a todu
e thicu
n aideeninogale
Mospsesic g
r vodja
jenbl
U leeoblajguradu!
clakoth
i a

Vef t keg
o l j ans e!
Lju stl
b
Za obiske
dogodkov
priporoamo
vonjo z
ca
vzpenjao.

Info center 9.00-20.00

T +386 1 306 42 93 M +386 51 381 690
E info-center@ljubljanskigrad.si
www.ljubljanskigrad.si

@Ljubljanskigrad Ljubljana Castle


Tourist train. Photo: Dunja Wedam
Ljubljananjam Food & Drink Walks
Within the world of travel and tourism, one thing that
seems to be constant is a love of good food. It has often
been said that the best way to experience a culture is
through the taste buds, and Iva and her Ljubljananjam
Foodwalks are here to make sure nobody misses out
whilst in town. Devoted to lovers of good food, be they
local or foreign, Ljubljananjam organises gourmet food
and drink walks through downtown Ljubljana, custom-
ised to the tastes and budgets of those taking the walk
Tourist Information
Slovenian Tourist Information Center (STIC)
Ljubljanas central tourist office is a bit larger and usu-
ally less crowded than the main branch located a few
hundred metres away opposite Preeren Square, and
they also helpfully stock heaps of maps, brochures and
general information for the entire country. Tickets for
most events in and around town can be purchased, and
the staff will gladly give you a run down of the various
tours and excursions on offer. Bicycle rentals are also
available for only 8 per day, and are a great way to see
more of the city.QC3, Krekov Trg 10, tel. +386 (0)1 306
45 75, fax +386 (0)1 306 45 80, stic@visitljubljana.
com, www.visitljubljana.com. Open Oct - May 08:00
- 19:00, Sat - Sun 09:00 - 17:00, Jun-Sept 08:00 - 21:00.
64 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
and always kept personal and intimate. Discover local in-
dependent businesses, homemade food from high-end
gourmet to comfort food, from craft beer to wine, and
get all wrapped up in the stories along the way. For more
information head to the website, which is choc-full of in-
formation, interviews, food blogs and much more.Qtel.
+386 (0)41 878 959, www.ljubljananjam.si.
Pleniks Way Walking Tour
It would be no great exaggeration to say that much of
the beauty of Ljubljana could be laid at the feet of one
man. Joe Plenik was one of the pioneers of contempo-
rary architecture, and to say his work left a distinct mark
on Ljubljana (as well as Vienna and Prague) would be
an understatement. In fact, to call it an understatement
would be an understatement. Most of his work in our fair
capital is from the period after 1921, when he returned
from abroad, and this takes up the bulk of the tour avail-
able.
The two hour official tour requires booking ahead, is avail-
able in a number of languages and covers a large chunk of
Pleniks work in the centre of town, including Tromost-
voje (Triple Bridge), the central markets and more. Prices
start from 50 for groups of up to five people.
Alternatively, grab yourself a bike and see the whole lot, in-
cluding Pleniks cemeteries (ale and Navje). To truly get
under the skin of Ljubljana, exploration of Pleniks oeuvre
is a must.Qwww.visitljubljana.com.
Roundabout Travel
Travel agencies may be cropping up everywhere in the
modern day, but weve not come across any more concise
and professional than the good folk at Roundabout. With
an impressive selection of both public and private tours,
as well as off-cruise options and jaunts into neighbour-
ing countries, only the pickiest of people would struggle
to find something to float their boat here. Head to the
website for a complete list of tours available.QPot Draga
Jakopia 6, tel. +386 (0) 51 601 601/+386 (0)41 78 61 68,
www.roundabout.si.
Ljubljana Tourist Information Centre (TIC)
A small but extremely well equipped resource with
plenty of maps, brochures galore in English, informa-
tion about whats on in the city and a range of in-
formation on what to see and do in the region. They
also organise tours, can help with accommodation,
and should be one of your first ports of call when you
arrive. Their website is one of the best weve seen in
Central Europe and is well worth further investiga-
tion. Friendly, informative staff too.QD3, Adami-
Lundrovo Nabreje 2, tel. +386 (0)13 06 12 15, fax
+386 (0)13 06 12 04, tic@visitljubljana.si, www.
visitljubljana.com. Open daily Oct - May 08:00 -
19:00, June - Sept 08:00 - 21:00.
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
 Sightseeing
Time Machine At The Castle
While it may be an often-claimed slogan, the Time Machine
guided tour at Ljubljana Castle truly is a tour like no other.
Follow the history of one of the biggest symbols of Ljubljana
through six of its most important periods, from Roman Emona
through to the 20th century. You are guided along each step
by a different costumed character from each time, creating a
unique atmosphere that we cant help but enjoy. Starting from
the information point at the castle, the tour runs from 11:00
and 15:00 every Sat and Sun from October to April.QGrajska
Planota 1, tel. +386 (0)1 232 99 94, www.ljubljanskigrad.
si. Oct - Dec - Sat and Sun 11:00, 15:00. Admission: 10
(12 with funicular), students/children/seniors/groups 7
(8.40 with funicular), families 26 (32 with funicular).
Taste Ljubljana Culinary Tour
The tour gives insight into traditional dishes from Ljubljana,
which today are mostly prepared using modern cooking
methods and have recently been given new life as part of the
much-acclaimed Taste Ljubljana project. The tour includes
five different restaurants, with a different dish and drink to
try at each stop. Ljubljanas flourishing culinary scene is now
more diverse than ever, and the tour tries to show this with
a wide range of destinations on the itinerary, including a
street food outlet, a traditional gostilna restaurant, a modern
restaurant that follows the promotes socially responsible en-
trepreneurship, a catering outlet located at a popular lookout
point, and a spirits shop offering traditional Slovenian bran-
dies. To learn about the locally sourced ingredients used in
most of the dishes, the tour also visits the citys Central Market
66 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
as well as the vegetable gardens located in the Krakovo dis-
trict. QAdami Lundrovo 2, tel. +386 (0)1 306 12 15, tic@
visitljubljana.si. Tours depart Wed and Sun at 12:00 from
the TIC office. Other times can be arranged for groups of
10 or more. Tickets 38, children under-12 28, and can
be booked online or purchased at both TIC (Adami Lun-
drovo Nabreje 2) and STIC (Krekov Trg 10).
Around Ljubljana
marna Gora
Along with its little sister near the centre, Ronik, the hill of
marna Gora is a favourite local hiking hotspot for Ljubljanani
(Ljubljana folk). Dominating the capitals skyline to the north, its
two stout peaks rise 676m and 669m to form a bosom shaped
mound thats just begging to be rambled. To the left, the peak of
Grmada (traditionally where witches were burned at the stake)
is the quieter option, with commanding views to the west and
also across Ljubljana. The right peak is home to a restaurant and
caf, with panoramic views on all sides: of Ljubljana, east to-
wards the hill of Raica and north towards the Alps. On sunny
days the various tables, benches and sun loungers are sure to
be completely packed, and the visit is not complete without or-
dering a serving of small suger-covered donuts known as mike
(mice) to enjoy along with the view. Although there are numer-
ous paths to the top, by far the most popular is from the village of
Tacen, which can easily be reached by public transport (bus line
8). The walk to the top takes 30-45 minutes depending on how
leisurely the pace. And dont forget to ring the bell and make a
wish on the way down!Qwww.smarnagora.com.
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

Are you brave enough to try Europes first virtual reality haunted house aka Hia Strahov?
Escape Rooms
Escape Room Enigmarium
On the face of it, getting locked into a room and having
one hour to escape might not sound like a normal way
to spend an afternoon, but then Escape Room Enig-
marium isnt your normal activity. The first of its kind
in town, six different uniquely themed rooms (all their
own creation) throughout Ljubljana encourage teams
to work together to decipher clues, complete chal-
lenges and eventually be set free, the culmination of
quite simply one of the most fun activities in the city.
No language expertise is needed, so take on a character
and let your inner code breaker run wild. Head to the
website for available times and booking information.
QTrdinova ulica 8, tel. +386 (0)31 33 44 88, escape-
room.si.
Mind Maze Ljubljana
At Mind Maze Ljubljana, youve got two options; Either
transport yourself back to the 16th century and em-
brace your inner alchemist in searching for the golden
egg, or become a hero and save Occupied Ljubljana.
Two escape rooms requiring equal parts logic and
imagination in order to get out, by working through a
www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket
Leisure
variety of clues and challenges you and your team (and
a good team is necessary) must find the answer to this
escape game in less than 60 minutes. It certainly isnt
easy, and neither should it be. Strangely, we cant think
of a more fun way to spend an hour. QD-3, Trubarjeva
cesta 24, tel. +386 (0)41 99 17 71, info@mindmaze.si,
http://mindmaze.si. Open 10:00 - 21:30.
The Key Escape Room
There arent many escape rooms where you can say
youve moved from the world of Leonardo Da Vinci
to that of Sherlock Holmes, but The Key Escape Room
gives you exactly that experience with visitors tackling
two rooms in a 70-minute time limit. There is also a
Wonderland escape room especially designed for kids.
All the rooms feature a variety of different challenges,
each more inventive than the next, team work is the
key. Challenges are tough but undeniably fun, making
The Key Escape Room a guaranteed good time. It also
happens to be just a thirty-second walk from Preeren
Square down the street named Trubarjeva. QObrena
Steza 2, tel. +386 (0)30 23 23 23, info@thekey.si,
www.thekey.si. Open 13:00 - 22:00, Sat, Sun 11:00 -
22:00.
March - April 2017 67
 Leisure
aCtiVities
NEW
HORROR HOUSE (HIA STRAHOV)
Europes first virtual reality haunted house or Hia strahov
in Slovene scares the crap out of us - that might also be
because we just watched a certain Black Mirror episode.
Just like horror movies plenty of you will laugh through
the whole Haunted House experience and absolutely love
it - you folks are weird just saying, while the rest of us will
have a different kind of memorable adrenaline packed ex-
perience, with complementary takeaway nightmares. Wed
recommend going as a group - its more fun that way plus
scaredy-cats can hold hands. Note kids under 12 need adult
supervision. QF-3, ilirska 15, tel. +386 (0)40 660 655,
info@hisastrahov.si, www.hisastrahov.si. Open 12:00-
22:00, Fri 12:00-23:00, Sat 10:00-23:00, Sun 10:00-22:00.
From 12.90 - 30 per person. By appointment only.
MUSEUM OF ILLUSIONS ( MUzEj ILUzIj)
Inst it aimzang waht the hmaun mnid is cbapale of seineg.
To experience just how much your eyes and mind can be de-
ceived as well as learn how it is being tricked go check out the
fascinating and informative Museum of Illusions. Best enjoyed
by groups, take the family or go with friends or colleagues for
a fun packed hour or two exploring the museums three sto-
reys of tricky optical illusions and mind bending installations
- perhaps avoid the vortex tunnel if youve just had lunch or
a few drinks (the museum is open til 10pm). There is also a
68 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
Planetarium
PLANETARIUM LjUBLjANA
If ber optimist and visionary Elon Musk aka the real-
life Tony Stark is to be believed, space travel will be-
come an affordable luxury within the not too distant
future, with humans colonising Mars and everyone on
back on Earth driving a Tesla and living off solar power.
However, regardless of whether or not this becomes re-
ality, you can already experience the wonder of space
travel without risk or evening leaving the centre of
Ljubljana, as the city now boasts its own planetarium.
In addition to fun and educational films about space,
the Artdomes library includes dozens of other titles
specially-produced to take advantage of the facilities,
from dinosaurs to abstract visual art, and is expanding
all the time. Films are both in English and Slovene, and
up-to-date info about the current programme can be
found on the website. So look for the large white dome
at Pload Ajdovina, grab a comfy reclining chair
and enjoy the ride! QC-2, Planetarium Ljubljana, tel.
+386 (0)70 146 977, info@artdomecinema360.eu,
artdomecinema360.eu. Open 12:00 - 20:00.
games room where you can try your hand at brain tickling
puzzles and games which the museum also sell. QKon-
gresni trg 13, tel. +386 (0)1 320 54 66, info@muzejiluzij.si,
muzejiluzij.si/en/. Open 09:00 - 22:00.
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

The Museum of Puppetry can be found in Ljubljana Castle, open daily 10:00 - 19:00
Travelling with the little ones can definitely be a chal-
lenge, and Ljubljana does not always cater to the sand-
box segment of the population, but with our useful
guide to kid-friendly places in town, boredom should
easily be held at bay. Let the children delve into these
great venues and events.
family-friendly dining
SOMBRERO
Although it might seem a strange combination at first ap-
pearance, this Tex-Mex themed caf and bar in the Fuine
neighbourhood is about as family-friendly as they come,
especially if the parents like to enjoy a grown-up drink
while the kids amuse themselves on the playground. Whats
more, during the summer months the playground is sup-
plemented by two additional inflatable bouncy houses, one
resembling an aquarium and the other consisting of two
huge slides. Located in the far east of town near the ring
road, with the surrounding trees and fields the area has a
rural feel to it. Buses 11, 20 and 25 will get you there from
the city centre, or its a pleasant 45-minute walk along the
Ljubljanica river. QNove Fuine 49, tel. +386 (0)41 57 63
92 peter.sombrero@gmail.com. Open 06:00 - 24:00.
family Centres
MALA ULICA
Upon entering Mala Ulica, we can honestly say that weve
never desired to be children once more quite as much. It truly
is a childs heaven. The interior well and truly comes to life,
with Ljubljanas most famous buildings carved into the walls,
the perfect mesh of education and fun. A large outdoor area,
library tower and labyrinth can also be found, but there is so
www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket
Families & Kids
much more to Mala Ulica than just a playtime heaven. A for-
ward-thinking social program, it provides as much for parents
as it does children. Fairytales enhance the educational aspect,
and workshops are frequently put on including language
classes, and even origami. Not only that, but fairytales and
workshops are held throughout the year, even on holidays.
QPrena ulica 7, tel. +386 (0)1 306 27 00, www.malaulica.
si. Open 09:00 - 19:00, Sat, Sun 10:00 - 18:00.
entertainment & eVents
HOUSE OF ExPERIMENTS (HIA EKSPERIMEN-
TOV)
Based on similar wacky, fun and educational places around
the globe, the extraordinary House of Experiments features
three rooms of purpose-built experiments for the ultimate
hands-on experience. Visitors are free to wander around as
they wish, engaging with anything that takes their fancy,
whether its a giant bubble maker, electronic insects, dancing
liquid or a machine that plays music according to your weight.
They also provide what they call Adventures, namely small
performances that aim to show different scientific principles,
with enticing names like the Centre of Gravitology, Eggology
etc. QE-3, Trubarjeva 39, tel. +386 (0)13 00 68 88, info@h-
e.si, www.h-e.si. Open to the public Sat & Sun 11:00-19:00.
Groups can book special visits outside these days too.
PUPPET THEATRE LjUBLjANA (LUTKOVNO
GLEdALIE)
Regardless of where you come from, we can all remember
being enchanting by puppets as children. Whether it was on
TV or live performances, children all over the world sat (and
still sit) wide-eyed and bushy-trailed as the puppet shows
unravelled before their eyes. Lutkovno Gledalie, the central
March - April 2017 69
 Families & Kids
Ljubljana Zoo
Much like Ljubljana itself, and even Slovenia as a
whole, the Ljubljana Zoo succeeds in fitting a lot of
interesting, entertaining and educational sights all in
one small easily manageable package. While it cant
compete with some of the much larger and better
known zoos in Europe in terms of scale, theres an
equally diverse range of animals, and perhaps an even
more innovative programme of activities, including at
least a few things that we guarantee you wont find
anywhere else.
Some of the most popular animals are conveniently
housed near the main entrance, including the Cali-
fornian sea lions, who playfully demonstrate their
aquatic skills (and love of fish) twice a day for amazed
spectators. One of our personal favourites are the clan
of meerkats that always seem to be up to something
and are super cute whilst doing it. Youll notice one
of them at all times standing on the highest rock on
the lookout for birds of prey and other dangers. Other
crowd pleasers nearby are the giraffes, red pandas,
leopards and tigers.
Located to the west of the city centre, and surrounded
by the natural forests at the edge of Ronik hill, the zoo
is easily reached by public transport (bus 18), taxi (3-
4) or on foot (25-35 minutes). Thanks to its position it
stays refreshing cool here during the summer months,
and is completely insulated from the noise and com-
motion of the city throughout the year.QI3, Vena
Pot 70, tel. +386 (0)1 244 21 88, info@zoo.si, www.
zoo.si. Open daily 09:00-16:00 in Jan-Feb, 09:00-
17:00 in Mar & Oct, 09:00-18:00 in Apr & Sept, and
09:00-19:00 May-Aug. Admission 8 for adults, 7
students/seniors, 5.50 children, 2 persons with
disabilities, 2 dogs. Free for children under 2.
70 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
Slovenian puppet theatre, has been joyfully creating puppet
shows since 1948. Slovenia has a proud puppet heritage, and
the theatre goes a long way to preserving it. Taking up its cur-
rent residence in 1984 on Krekov trg, the theatre has six ven-
ues in total and is visited by 110,000 people every single year.
Inside the theatre we also find an adorable bookstore, where
childrens books, gifts and souvenirs can be purchased. Head
to the website for a full calendar of events.QKrekov trg 2, tel.
+386 (0)1 300 08 92, blagajna@lgl.si, www.lgl.si.
Shopping for Kids
Ristanc
This small toy store is our first stop whenever we need gifts
for kids, as it has perhaps the finest selection of wooden,
educational and fun items in the country. From traditional
toys, puzzles and puppets to more recent creations, theres
something to delight everyone, and all without cartoon
characters, flashing lights, moulded plastic or batteries. Af-
ter more than 20 years in the business the owner - a linguist,
teacher and all-round enthusiast - has a good feel for what
her customers want, even if theyre not sure themselves, so
be sure to ask if you need suggestions for a specific age.
Strongly recommended.QGallusovo Nabreje 11, tel.
+386 (0)1425 24 36, ristanc.ls@gmail.com, www.ristanc.
si. Open 09:00-19:00, Sat 09:00-14:00, Sun 10:00-13:00.
Nama Kids
Up on the fifth floor of the Nama store in the centre of Lju-
bljana, the kids section here is something to behold. It re-
ally is difficult not to reminisce about childhood, as cuddly
toys, board games, animal figurines and other toys fill up
every possible space. An impressive range of clothes can
also be found, covering ages from just born up to grow-
ing pains. A small area is also on hand, as well as a caf for
parents to get a well-deserved sit down. QTomieva 2,
tel. +386 (0)1 425 85 00, info@nama.si, www.nama.si.
Open 09:-00 - 20:00. Closed Sun.
Sweets & Ice Cream
opomana
The kitchen of this exceedingly welcoming caf is known
to produce some of the best cakes in town, while during
the spring and summer months the homemade, all-natural
ice cream does such an efficient job of drawing in the local
neighbourhood children that even the Pied Piper of Hame-
lin would be jealous. However, what really sets opomana
apart is their willingness to organise childrens birthday par-
ties, with specially tailored workshops where the pint-sized
chefs can try their hand at preparing cakes, macarons and
the aforementioned ice cream which of course then gets
eaten or taken home to share with parents. All in all a highly
recommended destination for kids of all ages and anyone
with a sweet tooth. To get there, its just a few minutes walk
from the city centre down Celovka Cesta along Tivoli Park
or two bus stops to Stara Cerkev.QK-3, Aljaeva 4a, tel.
+386 (0) 41 632 630. Open 08:00 - 20:00, Sat 10:00 - 15:00.
Closed Sun. PTA6BS
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
 BTC & Citypark
in your pocket 2016 146,25x140 mm.indd 1
in your pocket 2016 146,25x140 mm.indd 1
1.10.2016 19:54:52
1.10.2016 19:54:52

The largest retail centre in the region, BTC

not only features some 450 shops selling
everything you can imagine, but also boasts
restaurants galore, bars, a multiplex
cinema, indoor go-cart racing and much
more
www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket March - April 2017 71
 bTc city
page 75
1 bTc ciTy - shoPPing
cenTer

2 page 75

10 3 8

CER

ALPINA
3
5

MINICITY

CLOTHES - SHOES - ACCESORIES

page 40 page 74
4 5

LJUBLJANA

www.hoodburger.si
 citypark
page 75
ciTyParK - shoPPing 10
cenTer

page 75
INDOOR M-TEHNIKA
9
KARTING
2

VETERINARSKA
INTERSPORT AMBULANTA BTC CITY
GOLF

page 74 8
9 4
7

page 75 page 74
6 7

KAVARNA Wolfova 14 Slovenska cesta 34 (hotel Slon)

martinska cesta 152 (BTC, Hala 12) Puharjeva 9 (Narodna
Galerija) BISTRO Kongresni trg 3 DELI Wolfova 12
www.zvezdaljubljana.si www.facebook.si/zvezdaljubljana

Balkan Express
restaurants
Balkan Express
What better way to deal with an exhausting day of shopping
than hoeing into a big plate of juicy evapii. Thankfully
Balkan Express at the first floor dining area in City Park BTC
has us covered with a solid range of Balkan favourites from
smoky grills meats to burek and make sure to leave room for
baklava. And if you dont want to go to BTC but have a crav-
ing for pleskavica, Balkan Express also delivers throughout
Ljubljana seven days a week. QM-3, martinska 152g, tel.
+386 (0)41 390 500, www.balkan-express.si. Open 10:00
- 21:00, Sun 10:00 - 15:00. PVS
bollywood
There are relatively few Indian restaurants in Ljubljana,
which makes the opening of Bollywood even more wel-
come, even if it is some way out of town at the Trnica BTC
City shopping centre. Still, its definitely worth the trip, as
this place offers traditional Indian cooking, served fast food
style, so theres no need to wait for your curry. Using local
ingredients, but Indian spices, chef Nishab creates daily
menus with dishes that showcase different levels of heat,
and offer something to suit all tastes, with takeaway avail-
able. On our trip we especially enjoyed the chicken tikka
masala and vegetarian thali. QTrnica BTC City, tel. +386
70 161 144, www. bollywood.si. S
Imperio Mexicano
Good value Tex-Mex food, Imperio Mexicano also happens
to be the only Mexican restaurant in Slovenia with fresh corn
tortillas, meaning as close to a genuine Mexican culinary ex-
perience as youll get here. Great cocktails, an outstanding
house white, and great big portions of all your Tex-Mex fa-
vourites: the chicken tortillas were particularly good. For big
groups shopping in City Park, you cant do much better. It also
delivers to your door anywhere in Ljubljana. M-3, martinska
152/G, tel. +386 (0)41 39 05 00, info@imperio.si, www.impe-
rio.si. Open 09:00-21:00. PTA6ULVGSW
Taverna Brajda
For some of us shopping is a chore and eating is a pleasure.
Thankfully Ljubljanas retail Mecca BTC also has great plac-
es to dine, like Taverna Brajda. Escape the shops and refuel
at this charming cafe and restaurant on the southern edge
of Dvorana A, which is rustic without being kitschy and
74 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
well shielded by a vine covered front terrace. Open from
early til late and with an wide selection of typical Slovene,
Mediterranean and International dishes, Brajda is the type
of place you can visit anytime of the day be it for break-
fast, lunch or dinner - grab a morning coffee, tuck into a
great value lunch menu or enjoy a glass of local wine with
snacks in the evening.QM3, martinska 152, tel. +386
(0)1 585 27 73, www.tavernabrajda.si/. Open 06:00
22:30, Fri 06:0024:00. Closed Sun. PiABKW
Tavern Rival
This restaurant works closely with a local fish market to en-
sure youll always get the freshest seafood on your plate.
While baking is the house style you can get your fish, octo-
pus, squid or crustacean prepared in almost any way you can
imagine - barbecued, grilled, fried, cooked in salt, in stew,
soup, or risotto, or with gnocchi, potatoes and salad. Theres
no need to worry about having too much choice, as in addi-
tion to an a la carte menu theres also a daily buffet So when
youre next in BTC, why not come along enjoy a touch of the
Mediterranean in the middle of Ljubljana. Q M-2, Trnica
BTC City, Ljubljana, tel. +386 (0) 585 17 69, www.rival-
trade.si. Open 9:00 - 17:00, Sat 9:00 -15:00. Closed Sun.
BTC Street Food Park
A permanent street food market can now be found in the
BTC City shopping district, featuring a half dozen stands of-
fering a wide variety of cuisine. For Ljubljanas most popu-
lar wraps theres Frks, while Hood Burger can largely be
credited with starting the citys burger craze when it first
opened back in 2011. Fans of Asian cuisine can line up at
the excellent Chutys for authentic Thai, while vegetarians
will have plenty of Indian and Mediterranean-inspired op-
tions at Radha Govinda. If youd prefer to keep it simple,
Top Dunajc whips up some gourmet Wienerschnitzel and
other assorted grilled dishes. And last but not least theres
Spanish-style tapas from panska Vas, which looks very
likely to be the next big culinary hit in town.
cafes
Argentino Caffe Club
Argentinos sprawling hacienda-style restaurant and
shaded courtyard has long been a popular destination for
Imperio Mexicano
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
those in search of a well-cooked steak or just looking for a
quiet place to relax during a day of shopping in BTC City, so
it comes as no surprise that the adjacent caf and lounge
bar also regularly attracts a crowd. During the daytime you
can sample a coffee from the futuristic Rancilio Classe 11
Xcelsius espresso machine (which costs about the same
as a new mid-range car) or enjoy a fresh seasonal dessert,
while in the evenings theres a fireplace to gather around
with a glass of premium aged spirits and a fine cigar. QM-
3, martinska 152, BTC City, tel. +386 (0)31 417 201, arg.
caffeclub@gmail.com. Open 08:00 - 23:00, Fri, Sat 08:00
- 24:00, Sun 09:00 - 17:00. ABXW
Zvezda
A bustling caf frequented by a battalion of clients from
students to pearl-laden old ladies. Zvezdas dcor leans in
the direction of your classic Buddha lounge, with a scatter-
ing of Oriental statues and some fine brown velvet wallpa-
per. Not the cheapest caf in town, your money is at least
well spent. The coffee is strong enough to wake the dead,
and the cakes are some of the best and stickiest in town.
They also have a few more cafes about town, so if you
need a sweet fix while shopping at BTC head to Hala 12 or
pause for coffee and cake at the National Gallery (Narodna
galerija); and there is another Zvedza on the ground floor
of Hotel Slon. Q C-3, Wolfova 14/ BTC Hala 12, kavarna.
zvezda@siol.net, www.zvezdaljubljana.si. Open 08:00-
22:00, Sun 10:00-20:00.PTUGBSW
SHOPPING
BTC City
The biggest thing of its kind in the country, the positively
enormous BTC features not only some 450 shops selling
everything you could possibly imagine, but also boasts
restaurants galore, bars, a post office, multiplex cinema, in-
door go-cart racing, a comedy theatre, billiards, volleyball
courts, an enormous water park, conference facilities and
its very own business district housing some of the best
known local and international companies. Theres free
parking for more than 8,500 vehicles too, all just a couple
of kilometres out of the centre of the city in the general di-
rection of Maribor.QM3, martinska 152, tel. +386 (0)1
585 22 22, info@btc.si, www.btc-city.com/lang/Eng.
Open 09:00 - 20:00. Closed Sun.
Tavern Rival
www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket
Citypark
Boasting over 120 stores of all shapes and sizes, Citypark is
Slovenias largest shopping centre, and the best place to find
pretty much whatever you need while in Ljubljana. Besides
the massive variety of stores - such as XYZ, K&O, Big Bang,
Desigual, Hervis, H&M and an Interspar hypermarket - there
is a terrific choice of places to eat, from Burger King to Thai
food to traditional Slovenian. Unlike the city centre parking
is never a problem, and theres even a large childrens play
area to keep the kids occupied. Find the Citypark page on
Facebook to stay up to date with new openings and events.
QM3, martinska 152g, tel. +386 (0)1 587 30 50, info@
citypark.si, www.citypark.si. Open 09:00 - 21:00, Sat
08:00- 21:00, Sun 09:00 - 15:00.
XYZ Premium Fashion Store
Located in Citypark, XYZ are the coordinates for creating
a completely new, authentic and fresh look, and a popu-
lar destination for Slovenias fashion lovers and trendset-
ters. With more than 2000 square metres set across two
floors, shoppers can find more than 50 of the worlds most
recognised fashion brands, such as Armani Jeans, Hugo
Boss, Dsquared2, Elisabetta Franchi, Polo Ralph Lauren and
more. Next time youre in need of something new to wear,
take the time to fashion a short vacation in the company
of the latest collections from your favourite designers.
QM-2, martinska 152g, Citypark. tel +386 (0)51 658
535, xyz.citypark@sportina.si, www.xyz-stores.com.
Open 09:00-21:00, Sat 08:00-21:00, Sun 09:00-15:00.
Activities
Rollbar-Karting BTC
This subterranean not only comes complete with enough
racing paraphernalia to start your very own F1 museum, its
actually got a go-kart racing circuit and a bar. There are no
drink-driving laws here, just a bunch of electric go-carts and
a hangar-size space to wiggle them through. Not quite as
tame as it sounds, these go-carts when running on full power
have a top speed of 120km/h, restricted for obvious reasons
here to a more sensible albeit still stupidly fast 65km/h.QM2,
martinska 152 (BTC Hala 18), tel. +386 (0)1 585 25 70/+386
(0)51 603 333, info@indoor-karting.com, www.indoor-
karting.com. Open 07:30 - 23:00, Fri 07:30 - 24:00, Sat 08:00
- 24:00, Sun 08:00 - 22:00. AUEGBX W
March - April 2017 75
 Shopping
www.galerijaempoirum.si
Fashion
Ljubljana is home to a selection of renowned international
brands, unique boutiques and its very own Slovenian-
made designer clothing, so you shouldnt have any trouble
finding something surprisingly original.
Bags
The aptly named Bags store on Wolfova stocks three world
renowned and innovative brands, all of the highest qual-
ity. Amongst them is the Italian label, Mandarina Duck -
iconic for its varied styles, forms and colours, which follow
contemporary urban trends. For the young and young at
heart, Bags also offers Kipling, made of lightweight mate-
rials and great for everyday use. For those who are look-
ing for something innovative yet more traditional there is
Victorinox, which offers guaranteed durability, whether
youre after a bag or one of their well-known Swiss army
knives. There is heaps more on offer, though youll have
to go have a look for yourselves.QC/D3, Wolfova 1, tel.
+386 (0)1 251 10 10, www.bags.si. Open 09:30 - 19:00,
Sat 09:00 - 14:00. Closed Sun.
Betty Barclay
With a newly opened store on Ciril Metodov Trg, Betty
Barclay continue to provide contemporary clothes for
the women of the modern world, with their interna-
tionally respected brand adding that extra gravitas
desired. A collection for summer 2014 focuses on el-
egance and sophistication, all the while keeping a close
eye on the latest trends. Betty Barclay is for those who
76 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
want a genuine enjoyment of fashion of the most cur-
rent designQCiril Metodov Trg 2, tel. +386 (01) 439 37
90, www.bettybarclay.com. Open 09:00 - 19:00, Sat
09:00 - 13:00. Closed Sun.
Gerry Weber
If you are interested in high-end European fashion then
make sure to stop by Wolfova Ulica in between Preeren
and Kongresni squares, where boutique after boutique
line the street. Among them is also an outlet of the re-
nowned German womens fashion label Gerry Weber.
The dynamic lifestyle brand caters to women of all ages
stocking classic and trendy outfits along with a range of
stylish accessories. QD-3, Wolfova 6, tel. +386 (0)1 252
78 35, tkan.wolfova@siol.net. Open 09:00-19:00, Sat
09:00-13:00. Closed Sun.
Qmartinska 152g, Mon - Fri 09:00 - 21:00, Sat 08:00 -
21:00, Sun 09.00 - 15:00.
Marina Yachting
Ideally located on Novi Trg in Ljubljanas old town, Marina
Yachting brings the fashions of the sea to the city. Using
lightweight materials allowing for maximum comfort,
the traditions of the sailors are respected at every turn
as modern twists are developed creating clothes to be
worn for every occasion. Nothing is rushed, and the care
taken over each garment is obvious to all. The brand is
constantly evolving, producing fashionable and classy at-
tire with ease.QC4, Novi Trg 6, tel. +386 (0)1 425 1107,
www.liliinroza.si. Open 09:00 -19:30, Sat 09:00 - 17:00,
Sun 10:00 - 14:00.
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
 Shopping
MAx&CO
MAX&Co. is all about style and glamour: a perfectly
calibrated blend of typically Italian quality and cre-
ativity. Sartorial tradition and state-of-the-art tech-
nology is applied to fashion design, and MAX&Co.s
collections are the fruit of a constantly evolving at-
titude and the desire to experiment and innovate,
which constitutes the pioneering ethos of the brand.
MAX&Co. are distinguished by a fresh, contempo-
rary international flair and purposefully designed
to be reinterpreted according to ones moods and
whims.QD-3, Mikloieva 1, tel. +386 (0)1 241 47
45, www.liliinroza.si. Mon - Fri : 9.00 - 19.30, Sat
9.00 - 15.00 .

PETIT BATEAU
Petit Bateau is a century-old tradition based on the
things that should be a part of everyday life: youthful
playfulness, sincere happiness and endless comfort.
Since 1893 the brand has been an indispensable com-
panion for children and adults for whom quality and
comfort are important.QD-4, Stari Trg 30, tel. +386 (0)5
993 49 89, www.liliinroza.si. Mon - Fri: 9.00 do 19.30,
Saturdays 09:00 - 14:00. Closed Sun.

STUdIO 33
Originally located in Slovenias seaside resort town
Portoro, Studio 33 may have moved to the capital,
but it hasnt left behind its Italian-inspired roots,
offering seasonal collections of designer womens
fashion exclusively from Italy. From the unique,
hand-fashioned handbags of Marino Orlandi to
the exquisite footwear of the increasingly popular
Loriblu, the selection of brands and items presented
is carefully chosen and quite literally comes directly
from the catwalks of Milan to the streets of Lju-
bljana, while the large, brightly lit space is staffed
by a team of attentive ladies, who are on hand to
serve as fashion consultants rather than salespeople.
QD-2/3, Mikloieva 16, tel. +386 (0)5 933 6950,
www.studio-33.si. Open 09:00 - 19:30, Sat 09:00 -
13:00. Closed Sun.

VIKTOR BARLI
This family-run enterprise has been producing high-
quality handmade leather goods since first opening its
doors on Mestni Trg back in 1954. Nowadays the third
generation of the Barli family specialises in the design
and creation of original handbags and other leather ac-
cessories, combining traditional handmade methods
with modern fashion trends. No two bags are exactly
alike and the selection changes weekly, making this
is the perfect shop for those who take pride in being
unique. A carefully chosen range of imported womens
footwear is also available, as are the award-winning,
animal-friendly Save the Duck line of jackets.QD-4,
Mestni Trg 8, tel. +386 (0)1 251 2908, www.barlic.si.
Open Mon - Fri 10:00 - 19:00, Sat 09:00 17:00, Sun
10:00 - 15:00
www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket March - April 2017 77
 Shopping
aCCessories
NEW
dEVUR
If you want a souvenir or gift thats characteristically Slove-
nian and yet individually unique, we recommend taking a
look at the items in Devur. Designed and handcrafted by
Dejan Hribar, and drawing on the long tradition of wood-
work in the region, each makes full play of the grain and
colour of the materials used. Visit the boutique in the Old
Town to see the selection of jewellery and accessories, in-
cluding a number of surprises. Made exclusively with local
wood, and many pieces inlaid with silver, gold or pearls,
this an ideal way to take a piece of Slovenia home. If you
have any questions about the items, just ask and youll
learn about the love and passion that go into carving
these creative works.QD-4, Mestni trg 12, tel. +386 (0)
40 414 567. Open Thu, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 18:00, Sun 10:00 -
15:00. Closed Mon.

seCond hand/Vintage
dIVAS VINTAGE PRELOVEd
Second hand clothing never looked so good, and the ever-
changing world of fashion never looked so inviting. Dedi-
cated to providing quality designer and vintage clothing
(and accessories) whilst keeping a close eye on the envi-
ronment, both male and female garments fill up this classy
store. The black and white decor is accentuated by ambi-
ent music, making the shop a pleasant place to browse the
various male and female items of clothing ranging from the
1930s to the 1990s. Slovenian and International designers
and brands are displayed, meaning it has never been easier
(or more affordable) to look fashionable.QC-4, Gospos-
vetska 5, tel. +386 (0)41 641 759, www.divaspreloved.
com. Open 11:00-18:00. Closed Sat, Sun.

gifts & souVenirs

Take a little something of Ljubljana home with you or for
your family. Keep an eye out for products carefully made
by local artists and designers often depicting the beauty of
Ljubljana within paintings, crafts, embroidery, ornaments,
photography, clothes and much more.

BABUSHKA BOUTIqUE
If theres a cuter shop in Ljubljana, then we have yet to find
it. Offering a wide selection of items from both Slovene
and foreign designers, if theres a common theme tying
everything together here, its the love that goes into the
handmade products, each of which has the ultimate goal
of making the recipient happy even the name, Babushka
Boutique, brings a smile to our face. From ceramics and
jewellery to notebooks, cookbooks and postcards, each
item is said to have its own story, which the affable, at-
tentive staff will be happy to share with you while youre
browsing the collection.QD-4, Stari Trg 18, tel. +386
(0)59 968 709, www.babushkaboutique.com. Open
10:00 - 20:00, Sun 10:00 - 14:00.
78 Ljubljana In Your Pocket ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

The Biggest
Craft & Art Shop
www.rayher.si
CASTLE ExPERIENCE2GO
As befitting its location, the Ljubljana Castle shop is choc-
full of goodies closely associated with the castle itself, and
the many stories that emanate from its history. Whether its
the silver jewellery, the many fashion accessories or even
the fine array of tasty treats, it is all guaranteed to maintain
the lovely memories of Ljubljana Castle for years to come.
Essentially, you are purchasing stories as opposed to prod-
ucts, memories as opposed to goods, and thats fine by
us.QGrajska Planota 1, LJubljanski grad, tel. +386 (0)1
306 42 11, www.ljubljanskigrad.si. Open Jan - Mar and
Nov 10:00 - 18:00, Apr - May and Oct 09:00 - 20:00, June
- Sept 09:00 - 21:00, Dec 10:00 - 19:00.
OKOLAdNICA CUKREK
A charming, family-run business with several shops in the city,
the latest by the river at Breg 4. okoladnica Cukrek has been
delighting adults and children for well-over a decade. Among
the many fine examples of chocolate for sale include special
Ljubljana dragons in souvenir wooden boxes, fruit covered
in chocolate and even chocolate flavoured with salt. In ad-
dition to the main location on Mestni Trg, you can also find
Cukrek in the Nebotinik passageway, opposite Hotel Union
on Mikloieva, in the Mercator Centre ika.Q C-4, Breg 4, 22 92, www.oliviers-co.si. Open 10:00 - 19:00, Sat 09:00 -
tel. +386 (0)1 421 04 53 , info@benedict.si , www.cukrcek.
si. Open 09:00-20:00, Sun 09:00-18:00.
GALERIjA RUSTIKA
Featuring the largest selection of high-quality Slovenian
handicraft products in the entire country, Rustika is indeed
equal parts gallery and shop. Perusing the collection with
the help of a knowledgeable staff member feels a bit like
taking a guided tour through all of the many diverse regions
and cultures found within Slovenias borders. Highlights
include traditional beehive panels produced by an award-
winning local artisan, world famous Idrijan lace, and various
different seasonal specialties.QD-3, Stritarjeva 9, tel. +386
(0)1 251 17 18/+386 (0)31 459 509, www.galerijarustika.si.
Nov- Mar 10:00 - 18:00.QD-4, Ljubljanski Grad, tel. +386
(0)1 251 17 18/+386 (0)31 38 32 47, www.galerijarustika.
si. Mar 10:00 - 18:00. April 09:00 - 19:00
LA CHOCOLATE
If youre in the market for something sweet in the Old Town
then look no further than La Chocolate. This store has a wide
www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket
Shopping
10 %
off
Discount Voucher
and tempting selection of fresh pralines that taste as good as
they look. There are also traditional Slovenian chocolate bars
that come in a variety of unique flavours, including prosciutto,
and salted chocolate with pumpkin seeds and tarragon. More
than 40 loose teas are on offer, as well as a good range of tea-
pots and mugs to enjoy them with. Gifts sets and packages
are available, making it easy to shop for that special someone
while picking up something for yourself. Just look out for the
orange sign and squirrel logoQD-4, Mestni Trg 8, tel. +386
(0)59 921 252, www.lachocolate.si. Open 09:00 - 21:00, Sun
10:30-17:00, From May 09:00-21:00 Mon-Fri.
OLIVIERS&CO
With boutique stores on Ciril Metodov trg and Slovenska cesta,
the Oliviers&Co olive oil empire continues to grow. The com-
pany was founded in France almost 20 years ago, and has fully
committed to offering the very best of the Mediterranean, in
the shape of the finest olive oils, trues, spreads, cosmetics
and much more, including the most delightful vinegars weve
ever come across. Theyve also got one section of the shop
dedicated exclusively to products from Slovenia. Exceedingly
friendly (but not intrusive) shop assistants are on hand to help
at all times.QD-3, Ciril Metodov trg 20, tel. +386 (0)1 232
19:00, Sun 10:00 - 15:00, Slovenska 46, tel +386 (0)1 232 22
92. Open 09:00-19:00, Sat 09:00-13:00. Closed Sun.
hobby & Crafts
RAYHER HOBBY & ART
Arts and crafts enthusiasts in need of supplies this
is the place for you, or scrap booking travellers and
parents looking for good creative fun for kids its
great for you too. Actually, even for not handy folks
like ourselves who just need some occasional help
creating seasonal decorations, a costume for Pust
(Slovene carnival), or gifts for friends - Rayher is
the place to go. Its two floors are packed with ev-
erything from fine art supplies to play dough while
the helpful staff will ensure you find whatever you
need. QD-3, Mala Ulica 5, tel. +386 (0)1 320 56
00, trgovina.ljubljana@rayher.si, www.rayher.si.
Open 09:00-19:00, Sat 09:00-13:00. Closed Sun.
March - April 2017 79
 Shopping
Piranske Soline
Times have changed since Roman soldiers were paid
in salt but this mineral still ranks as one of lifes es-
sentials. Here at Piranske Soline the canvas bags that
fill the windows and the shelves are full of the stuff.
There is salt for cooking, including the famous Piran
salt, hand-scraped from coastal deposits, along with
salted chocolates and a wide range of salt-related ac-
cessories such as salt mills and containers. And if all
the walking youve done has made you a little weary,
you can pick up some pick-me-ups in the form of bath
salts and scrubs from the Lepa Vida natural beauty
range.QD4, Mestni Trg 8, tel. +386 (0)1 425 01
90, www.soline.si. Open 09:00 - 20:00, Sat 09:00 -
15:00, Sun 10:00 - 15:00.
Slovenika
Looking for interesting souvenirs that are actually made
in Slovenia and unique handcrafted gifts, then look no
further than Slovenika. Located on Gornji trg in old
town Ljubljana, this souvenir and gift store is packed
with a great range of quality locally made products,
traditional and modern alike. Here, youll find some-
thing for anyone. There are cute things for kids, de-
signer home wares and furniture, as well as beautiful
Idrian lace, elegant wooden jewellery and innovative
kickstarter products from up and coming designers,
plus heaps more. And if that isnt enough, they also sell
delicious Slovenian edible treats and boutique spirits.
QD4, Gornji trg 4, tel. +386 (0)30 20 10 50, www.
slovenika.eu. Open 10:00 - 19:00, Sat 10:00 - 15:00.
Closed Sun. JA
Shopping Centres
Ljubljana may boast more shopping centres per
capita than any other city in Europe, with even more
scheduled to open over the next several years. Most
are located on the citys outskirts near the ring road,
including the largest, BTC and City Park, in the north-
east, Rudnik in the south and Mercator Centre in the
northwest.
Center Vi
Just 10 minutes from the city centre we find this eas-
80 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
ily reached small shopping centre with a pleasant atmo-
sphere. At Vi we find a pretty huge Interspar as well as
over 30 shops, covering fashion, sports, books and more.
The expected cafes can also be found, but our definite
highlight is Ljubljana institution Hood Burger. Electrical car
charging is also available.QJamova cesta 105, tel. +386
(0)1 470 05 91/+386 (0)5 923 73 04, www.center-vic.si.
Open 09:00 - 21:00, Sat 08:00 - 21:00, Sun and holidays
09:00 - 15:00 (Interspar open from 08:00).
Slovenian Designers
Trgovina Ika
Ika puts the creativity of local Slovene artists, designers
and innovators at the forefront of its shelves, exhibiting
a wonderful selection of products showcasing modern
Slovene design. You can pick up great souvenirs here as
a lot of the products represent the beauty of Ljubljana in
artistic forms, or if youre looking for a unique garment,
decorative product or piece of art, youve come to the
right place.QD3, Ciril-Metodov Trg 13, tel. +386 (0)1
232 17 43, www.trgovinaika.si. Open 10:00 - 19:30, Sat
09:00 - 18:00, Sun 10:00 - 14:00.
Home & Design
Filipov Dvorec
Located smack in the heart of Ljubljana just steps from Tromo-
stovje, Filipov Dvorec is where locals with fine taste head for
top quality cookware, kitchen appliances and designer dining
ware. They stock world renowned brands including Villeroy &
Boch porcelain, Christofle silver cutlery and WMF kitchenware
to name just a few of the premium items available. There is
also a select range of boutique teas, Slovenian wines and
spirits, always good souvenirs though really everything in the
shop is gorgeous and would make a great memento or gift -
its our go to place for wedding presents.QD3, Cankarjevo
nabrezje 1, tel. +386 (0)1 2418 396, www.dom.si. Open
09:00 - 19:00, Sat 09:00 - 15:00. Closed Sun. PJA
Food & Drink
Hub Trgovina
Hub is the only store of its kind in Slovenia, offering a
colourful range of American snacks, sodas and candies
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
 Shopping
that just cant be found elsewhere in town. In addition to
a rotating selection of items certain staples are always in
stock, including Pop Tarts, Dr Pepper, Canada Dry, A&W
Root Beer, and Nerds, as well as some Californian wines,
barbecue sauces, pancake mixes and more. On our visit we
picked up some tins of Altoid and Tootsie Rolls, and will be
back whenever we have a sweet-toothed friend to shop
for.QD-2, Mikloieva 15, tel. +386 (0)59 923 254. Open
10:00 - 18:00, Sat 09:00 - 13:00. Closed Sun.

Wine, sPirits & beer

dEKANTER
Dekanter may not be the largest wine shop in town in fact
we're pretty sure it's the smallest but as we once heard
someone say: it's not the size that counts, it's how you use it.
And Anja and Janez, the friendly couple who run the place,
definitely make the most of the space, stocking an excellent
selection of wine carefully chosen from Slovenia's best small
producers, including Sveti Martin, Bati, Edi Simi, Sosoli,
Klinec and Mansus. In addition to the wine, there's an assort-
ment of goat, sheep and cow cheeses, as well as high quality
schnapps. A store that sells time, not just wine, and has open
tastings each Thursday at 20:00.QD-4, Gornji Trg 10, tel. +386
(0)68 675 445, dekanter.wix.com/wineboutiquedekanter.
Open 16:00 - 21:00, Sat, Sun 10:00 - 14:00.

j&B VINO
Fine wine, olive oil, trues and ham, to our mind J&B
Vino offers some of the best things in life. Opposite the
Grand Hotel Union, this is a great place to stop by before
a dinner party or when you need a gift for the gourmet
in your life. A choice selection of local and foreign wines
is offered, along with whiskies, gins and rums. There are
also olive oils from Istria, both plain and infused with herbs
and spices. Fresh trues are available by order, and true
oils, cheeses and other preparations are always in stock.
A range of prosciutto and hams are also sold. Be sure to
ask Bianca about the gift options and occasional wine tast-
ings.QD-3, Mikloieva cesta 14, tel. +338 (0)51 416 991,
www.jb-vino.si/. Open 10:00 - 19:30, Sat 10:00 - 14:30.
Closed Sun.
WINE STORE TORIjA
Slovenian wine is one of the countrys best kept secrets.
Boutique producers rarely export so unless you are a seri-
ous wine nerd youre unlikely to have tried zelen, pinela or
even orange wine - as in the colour, not the fruit. And no,
its not the same as ros. While in Ljubljana do yourself a
favour and head along to torija just a short walk along
Trubarjeva from Preeren Square, where youll find an ex-
cellent range of top quality local wines and knowledge-
able staff at hand to help.QTrubarjeva 17, tel. +386 40
690 096, www.vinotekastorija.com/. Open 11:00 - 21:00,
Sat 10:00 - 13:00 & 17:00 - 21:00. Closed Sun. JA

SINGLE BLENd WHISKEY SHOP E V REdU, PRIMO

We have a confession to make: we really dont like over-
paying for things. In fact some (ie many) people we know
might even disparagingly refer to us as being cheap. This
was the reason it took us so long to visit Ljubljanas first
dedicated whiskey shop on Rimska Cesta, as from our
experience specialty shops tend to charge a premium.
However, much to our delight (and our livers chagrin),
when we finally did drop by one day we found that the
prices here are actually lower (in some cases significantly
so) than anywhere else in town, and the selection cant
be beat. You can also sample some of the open bottles,
and get very in depth explanations of all the handcrafted
peaty goodness lining the shelves.QRimska 13, tel. +386
41 523 192, www.singleblend.si. Open 13:00 - 20:00, Sat
09:00 - 13:00.
www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket
New beer shops in Ljubljana arent opening quite as fast as
new craft breweries in Slovenia are, but they dont seem to
be far behind. Well admit that fact we live just a few min-
utes away on foot might be an important factor, but since
it opened e v Redu, Primo (or Okay, Primo in English) on
Trubarjeva is definitely the one weve spent the most time
at. About half the selection is from local craft brewers, and
the friendly proprietor will gladly explain the differences
and give recommendations, while he manages double
duty by also deejaying from his collection of vinyls. And
while you cant legally drink inside, theres a fridge full of
cold ones in the back and some places to sit just outside
the door. Na zdravje!QTrubarjeva 47, tel. +386 40 251
024, www.pr-primozu.si. Open 12:00 - 21:00, Sat 10:00
- 14:00, 17:00 - 21:00.
March - April 2017 81
 Where to Stay
Hotel Slon is now a more attractive accommodation option than ever after undergoing extensive renovations and being situated on a newly
pedestrianised stretch of Slovenska Cesta, photo by iga Koritnik
Not surprisingly for a popular tourist and business
destination, Ljubljana provides a wide range of
accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets.
As youd expect, prices creep up the closer you get to
the centre, but the cost of a night here still remains
relatively low in comparison with western Europe.
The citys popularity does mean however that places
do book up for the summer. Ensuring you get yourself
the room you want in the location you want and
for the price you want during the summer is highly
recommended.
Hotels Over 170
Cubo
This relatively new boutique hotel has a great location
right in the heart of the city opposite beautiful Kongresni
Trg and Zvezda Park. In its couple short years Cubo has al-
ready won a host of awards for excellence, including our
own IYP Best Business Hotel competition. Its 26 rooms
are modern, elegant islands of tranquility, with gorgeous
views of the castle and old town, and a friendly profession-
al staff that is always eager to make your stay as comfort-
able and memorable as possible. The street-level restau-
rant serves equally praiseworthy cuisine, and is a popular
spot for business lunches.QC4, Slovenska 15, tel. +386
(0)1 425 60 00, fax +386 (0)1 425 60 20, www.hotelcubo.
com. 26 rooms . PJALKW
Hotels 100-170
Best Western Premier Hotel Slon
On the site of the oldest hotel in Ljubljana, the Slon is
the best value stay in the city. For a very reasonable price
you get a ton of luxury, from a pillow menu (yes, really) to
sheets of only the purest cotton. The breakfast is a buf-
82 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
fet affair of the highest quality; you should turn up early if
you want to have time to taste everything. Add in a small
fitness centre and sauna, free Wi-Fi, home entertainment
centres in every room, tremendous service and a loca-
tion in the very heart of the city, and you have one hell
of a package.QC3, Slovenska 34, tel. +386 (0)1 470 11
00, fax +386 (0)1 251 71 64, www.hotelslon.com. Open
00:00 - 24:00. 168 rooms (singles 75 - 134, doubles
110-160, triples 165-180, suites 201-335). PJH
AR6UIGKDXW
G Design Hotel
The exceedingly modern G Design may be one of Ljublja-
nas newest hotels, but it also boasts over two hundred
years of tradition, as the still functioning (and beautifully
restored) Gostilna Gorjanc restaurant has been serving
travellers at the same location since the end of the 18th
century. The large well-furnished rooms feature soft light-
ing and super comfortable beds, with panoramic views of
Vila Veselova
Vila Veselova really makes the most of its location in
a 19th century mansion house. It helps that upon ar-
rival you are welcomed by some of the most charming
working people weve had the pleasure of meeting.
We dont know how long weve been clamouring for
bunk bed shelves and private electricity sockets, but
Vila Veselova provide them in their excellent special-
made bunks. Relaxing balconies, a delightful garden,
plenty of free parking and free breakfast are also in-
cluded, but it is the atmosphere and comfort that will
make it almost impossible to leave. QB-3, Veselova
14, tel.. +386 (0)59 92 67 21, desk@v-v.si, www.v-v.
si. 8 rooms. J ARLGW
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
 Where to Stay
Ljubljana castle in the distance. Well-equipped conference
facilities and meeting rooms are available, and for a real
treat you can dine in bed at the unique G Super Club. The
hotel is conveniently situated just off the Brezovica exit on
the motorway, at the edge of the forest just a short drive
south of the city centre.QH5, Traka 330, tel. +386 (0)1
200 91 00, fax +386 (0)1 200 91 30, www.gdesignhotel.
si. 22 rooms. HAULKW

Galleria (previously Antiq)

What better way to experience old town Ljubljana than
staying in a four-hundred year old home turned four star
boutique hotel, located directly on Gornji trg (square) - the
heart of the old town. And actually the experience has just
got even better, thanks to the friendly family now running
Hotel Galleria (previously Antiq - the new name is fitting
with interesting local art on display) who have rejuvenat-
ed the place. There are rooms for travellers of all budgets,
modern luxury combines with old world charms, a private
garden below the castle, 200 year old wooden ceilings
and original frescoes are mighty impressive though its
heritage listing does mean theres no lift, travellers who
cannot climb a flight of stairs or two should book else-
where.QGornji trg 3, tel. +386 (0)1 421 35 60, www.
hotelgalleria.eu/. PJHABXW

Hostels
AdHoc Hostel
Despite the name, budget conscious travellers can rest as-
sured that every aspect of this newly opened hostel has
been thoroughly planned and executed - including all the
small touches that backpackers are sure to appreciate, such
as ample common space, plenty of showers and shelves
for the top bunks. However, its the unbeatable location
in the heart of the old town just below the castle and only
steps from all the major sites (and popular nightlife venues)
that makes AdHoc a winner. A total of 72-beds are spread
across several floors and a combination of dorms and pri-
vate rooms.QCankarjevo Nabreje 27, tel. +386 (0)51 268
288, www.adhoc-hostel.com. 8-bed dorm, private qua-
druple, private double. PJGW

Apartments
Kollmann Apartments
These beautifully renovated luxury apartments and
rooms right in the centre of the old town are truly a
sight to behold. The highlight of the smaller unit is the
king-sized waterbed located in a loft bedroom separated
from the living room below, while the larger apartment
is absolutely huge, with two bedrooms, a full bathtub
and a washing machine. Both apartments and one of the
rooms have fully-equipped kitchenettes, while the larger
of the apartments and both rooms also have great views
of the Ljubljanica and old town below. All units feature
brand new LCD TVs and free internet,QD4, Cankarjevo
Nabreje 27, tel. +386 (0)51 268 288, www.ljubljana-
apartments.eu. PT J A 6 G X W
www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket March - April 2017 83
 Gourmet Slovenia
An elegant setting and refined cuisine make Hotel Cubo Restaurant a great choice for special occasion or business lunch (Photo: David Ralita)
Long before there was an official Slow Food Movement
(which was founded in Italy in 1986), food has played a
central role in Slovenian social life. From long lunches
out of the office on most working days to day-long
Sunday meals and extravagant traditional holiday
dinners with extended families, the average Slovene
spends a significant portion of their lives eating.
and while Slovenia may not yet be an international
household name as a culinary destination, in recent
years its reputation has been growing in leaps and
bounds amongst those in the know. This has been
thanks in part to nation-wide initiatives such as the
twice-yearly restaurant Week (tedenrestavracij.si)
and the promotion of traditional Slovenian cuisine
with the Gostilna Slovenija brand (gostilnaslovenija.
si), as well as local campaigns like Taste Ljubljana, but
mostly its because Slovenia has always had great
food and its impossible to keep something like that
a secret forever.
Gorenjska
Gostilna Kritof
One of the dozen or so Slovene restaurants that are
84 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
perennially in the running for the title of the finest din-
ing in the country, Kritof can be found in the village of
Predoslje just next to Brdo Castle north of Kranj. True
to its small town roots, the restaurant combines the
best of rural ambience and charm with modern Slove-
nian cuisine, and the family that runs the place is said
to have been the catering business for more than 700
years, so you can rest assured that youre in good hands.
The fresh seasonal menu is certified organic, and there
are also many vegetarian and vegan dishes to choose
from, all of which can be found in English (and with
prices) on their website.QPredoslje 22, 4000 Kranj,
tel. +386 (0)4 234 10 30, +386 (0)41 358 786, kristof@
siol.net, www.gostilnakristof.si. Open 12:00-24:00,
Sun 12:00-17:00.
Vila Podvin
Opened in 2013, Vila Podvin is set in a beautifully restored
14th-century castle some 2km east of Radovljica, and just
a short drive north of Ljubljana. There are seven comfort-
able guests rooms and suites available, but the real high-
light here is in the kitchen, which is run by one of Slove-
nias top chefs, Uro tefelin. Renowned for transforming
traditional Slovene cuisine using modern culinary tech-
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

niques, tefelin prepares his own unique dishes with local
ingredients and ample creativity. Already a popular venue
for weddings, the Podvin estate also hosts other private
events, offers horseback riding and cooking workshops,
and even has a selection of souvenirs representing Slo-
venias rich cultural heritage. QMonje 1, Radovljica, tel.
+386 (0)41 747 636, info@vilapodvin.si, www.vilapod-
vin.si. Open 12:00-22:00, Sun 12:00-17:00. Closed Mon.
LJUBLJANA
Hotel Cubo Restaurant
For fine modern dining right in the heart of the city cen-
tre, look no further than the ground floor of Hotel Cubo.
Just steps away from some of Ljubljanas top cultural
venues (Cankarjev Dom, Drama Theatre and the Slove-
nian Philharmonic) Cubo is a popular choice for a pre-
or post-performance dinner. The tranquil interior and
professional service also makes it a common destination
for important business lunches, while gourmet cuisine
is creatively prepared with the freshest ingredients, and
complimented by an exquisite wine list. Free kerbside va-
let service and shuttles for groups of four or more guests
are added bonuses. QC-4, Slovenska 15, tel. +386 (0)1
425 60 30, www.hotelcubo.com. Open 12:00-16:00,
Closed Sat, Sun.
Gostilna As
One of Slovenias first truly world class restaurants when
it opened its doors in the centre of Ljubljana some two
decades ago, in the years since it hasnt missed a beat,
still serving some of the very best Mediterranean-
inspired cuisine in the city. For us the true standouts
on the menu are the fantastic seafood specialities (both
starters and main courses), but you also cant go wrong
with the steaks, grilled to order on an open-fire. When
in doubt, you can rely on the friendly and professional
staff for recommendations, as well as guidance with the
equally superb wine list. A must for lovers of extrava-
gant dining!QC3, opova 5a (Knafljev Prehod), tel.
+386 (0)1 425 88 22, www.gostilnaas.si. Open 12:00
- 01:00.
Slon 1552
Taking its name from the year one of Ljubljana's most
prestigious accommodation options, the Slon Hotel,
originally opened its doors to guests, this sleek, mod-
ern restaurant is anything but old-fashioned. Soft light-
ing, elegant furnishings and an abundance of green
plants make dining here a truly relaxing experience.
Chef Joe Erjavec's minimalist menu is a contempo-
rary take on traditional Slovenian dishes, with a hint
of Mediterranean influence thrown into the mix as
well, and generally adheres to the philosophy of 'less
is more'. If you're in the mood for indulging, we rec-
ommend choosing one of the set four-course tasting
menus. QC-3, Nazorjeva 5, tel. +386 (0)1 470 11 81,
sales@hotelslon.com, www.hotelslon.com. Open
11:00 - 23:00.
www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket
Gourmet Slovenia
Matija Bizjak has been a
chef for 15 years and follow-
ing stints at top restaurants
around Slovenia, in Ireland
and Switzerland he is now in
charge of the restaurant at the
boutique designer Hotel Cubo.
Tell us how you become
a chef...did you have any
mentors along the way?
Professionally, I am a chef 15 years now, but I fell in love
with this profession in the 6th grade of primary school.
My grandmother gave me the best start/intro to cook-
ing, when I was 12 she managed to get me interested
in her daily task in the home kitchen. Even nowadays I
still call her if anything is not totally clear when it comes
to grandmas cooking.
What do you enjoy most about being a chef?
Being a head chef, the most enjoyable thing of course
is the creativity, where I and my team are working
hard to implement all the ideas and goals that we
set together. The other enjoyable thing is definitely
leading the kitchen team which is of course very chal-
lenging.
You are now in charge at Cubo, whats new? What
are your plans for the restaurant?
We have only just started our culinary journey at Cubo
Hotel, though already we have changed the whole
philosophy and quality of the food and presentation
as well.
The next step for this year is to introduce an all day Ala
carte menu that I and another of my team members,
who recently joined the team, Dina Avdic Sabic, also a
member of the Slovenian national cooking team, are
developing. We will be mainly using Slovenian and sea-
sonal produce, but with the influence of the modern
international techniques.
Apart from Cubo which are the Slovene restaurants
to watch?
Each restaurant has their own story, but in my opinion,
I really think, that each of us are doing our part, so that
one day we will be a culinary destination.
Slovene cuisine in five words...
Rustic, full-flavoured, pork, sausage, winter food
Three dishes every visitor to Slovenia should try...
Carniola sausage (Kranjska klobasa), Cheese dumplings
(sirovi truklji), Idrijski likrofi (a type of stuffed pasta)
Where do you head for lunch out of town?
I love to visit very ordinary family ran restaurants, such
as Fritolin in Portoro.
March - April 2017 85
 Gourmet Slovenia
Notranjska
Proteus Restaurant
After a day spent exploring Postojnas famous cave
and other sights, treat yourself to a first-class meal at
the newly renovated Proteus. Set in a old house that
is typical for the region, the restaurant combines the
traditional and modern with homemade local cuisine
served in an elegant interior. Tables are separated by
curtains of fine white string, which are meant to re-
semble the geological formations found inside the
cave, and the walls are decorated with works of ac-
claimed Slovene painter Leo Vilhar. QTitov Trg 1, tel.
+386 (0)8 161 0300, +386 (0)40 457 483, info@post-
ojnska-jama.eu, www.postojnska-jama.eu. Open
08:00 - 23:00.
Posavje
Oterija Debeluh
Widely regarded as one of the best restaurants in the region,
if not the entire country, thanks to head chef Jure Tomis in-
novative approaches to classic dishes, Debeluh is one of the
only restaurants in Slovenia to have been awarded a Jeunes
Restaurateurs dEurope rating - often referred to as the little
Michelin. Excellence doesnt come cheap however, and you
Dine in style at Restaurant Proteus.
86 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
should expect to pay upwards of 50 per person for several
courses, and significantly more if you wish to indulge with
something off of the equally impressive wine list. For those
who can afford it, Debeluh cant be recommended highly
enough. QTrg Izgnancev 7, Breice, tel. +386 (0)7 496 10
70. Open 12:00-22:00. Closed Sun.
Primorska
Gostilna Pri Lojzetu
Dvorec Zemono, or Zemono Manor, is an exquisite 17th-
century Palladian building in the village of Zemono, be-
tween Vipava and Ajdovscina. As well as the splendid ar-
chitecture and frescoes the site offers truly stunning views
of the vineyards and peach trees in valley, and also attracts
many visitors because it is home to Gostilna Pri Lojzetu.
With its roots in a family business that opened at the end
of the 19th century, the restaurant has been at its current
location for more than ten years. Chef Tomaz Kavcic is a
member of the founding family, and is known for his take
on Slow Food. There are a la carte, set meal and tasting
menu options, with many innovative approaches to tradi-
tional dishes. QDvorec Zemono, Vipava, tel. +386 (0)5
368 70 07, zemono@zemono.si, www.zemono.si.
Hia Franko
Roundly regarded by gourmands, amateur foodies, tour-
ists and locals alike as one of best restaurants in the
country, its not uncommon for diners to make the trip
to Slovenia for the express purpose of eating here - es-
pecially for neighbouring Italians, who can appreciate
top quality cuisine like few others. Run by a husband and
wife team, Ana is in charge of the kitchen, while Valters
knowledge of Slovenian wines and cheeses is unrivalled.
Set in a rustic villa outside the town of Kobarid in the far
west of the country, a meal here will not soon be forgot-
ten. Rooms are also available. QStaro Selo 1, 5222 Ko-
barid, tel. +386 (0)5 389 41 20, info@hisafranko.com,
www.hisafranko.com.
TAJERSKA
Vila Herberstein
Located on a hill just above Velenje's city centre, the im-
maculate Vila Herberstein is nevertheless in a space and
time completely separated from the town only a few hun-
dred metres below. Dating back to the second half of the
19th century, the previous owners included several noble
families - including the mysterious Maria Anne Herber-
stein from whom it now takes its name - and the villa was
restored to its former glory by its current owner Gorenje
following Slovenian independence. The separate dining
rooms provide an unsurpassed atmosphere, transporting
guests back in time, while the food and service are every
bit as fitting. It's well-worth stopping by here on any visit
to Velenje, even if it's just for a cup of coffee (and perhaps
a quick tour of the premises and grounds). QKopalika 1,
Velenje, tel. +386 (0)3 896 1400, info@vilaherberstein.si,
vilaherberstein.si. Open 12:00-22:00. Closed Sun.
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
Nanas Apartments
These dozen or so apartments are all centrally located in Lju-
bljanas old town, with many just a few steps from the citys
main sights like Dragon Bridge and Preeren Square. All are
newly furnished and come in a variety of sizes, styles and
layouts, from bright and colourful studios to more classic af-
fairs with parquet floors and exposed wooden beams. De-
tailed descriptions of each and lots of photos can be found
on Nanas website, so its best to have a look and choose
what suites your needs and taste.QVarious Locations, tel.
+386 (0)51 387 111, www.nanasrentals.com.

MartaStudio
These three self-contained studios and one large 106m
apartment are reasonably priced alternatives to booking
a hotel. All fitted with modern facilities, including kitch-
enettes, the family-run accommodation is just a short
15-minute walk from the city centre, or an even shorter
bus ride from the stop just a few metres away (lines 1 and
6). A supermarket, restaurants and banks are all nearby,
and airport pick-up can be arranged for little more than
the cost of a bus. The entrance is in the same building as
the shop Mavrica, look for the house in the courtyard with
the red faade. QJ-4, Traka 24, tel. v +386 (0)5 9020
452, +386 (0)41 874 400, info@martastudio.eu, www.
martastudio.eu. TA6LG

AirBnB
We dont know how its legal, since the vast majority of
the rooms, apartments and other private accommodation
listed on the AirBnB website presumably operate without
having received permits or having jumped through the
notoriously opaque hoops of Slovene bureaucracy (not
to mention the small matter of taxes). However, setting
all that aside for the time being, its safe to assume that
AirBnB isnt going away for the foreseeable future, so for
those visitors comfortable staying in a strangers home
and participating in the so-called sharing (ie grey) econ-

Highlights of
omy, AirBnB offers excellent value accommodation with
several hundred full apartments and another hundred or
so private rooms currently available in Ljubljana, most of
which are conveniently located within the old town cen-
tre. Note: despite how overtly critical we may sound, if we

Slovenia
were coming to Ljubljana and didnt know anyone to stay
with, we would almost certainly opt for AirBnB, just dont
tell anyone we said so.

Located nearly in the geographical centre

of a tiny country, virtually all of Slovenias
sights are an easy day-trip from the capital
 Postojna
Stop off for a bite at Proteus Restaurant in Postojna after a long day
exploring the sights (p86)
With less than 10,000 inhabitants Postojna is barely one
of the 20 largest towns in Slovenia, but arguably none
are more well-known throughout that world (including
the capital Ljubljana) than this relatively nondescript
settlement in the southwest of the country that wasnt
even offi cially recognise until 1909. The reason of
course it not so much the town itself, but the amazing
network of karst caves that lie just below its surface.
First opened to the public in 1819, the world-famous
Postojna Cave is said to have attracted more than 35
million visitors over the past two centuries, with one
of its fi rst being Austro-Hungarian Emperor Francis
I the year before it opened. If this were not enough,
Postojna is also blessed with another popular sight
in its immediate vicinity, the magnifi cent Predjama
Castle located some 11km to the northwest of the town
centre. Built in the 13th century and partially situated
under enormous natural stone arch, its not only a fi ne
castle in its own right, but also sits atop another tourist
cave and is also associated with several fascinating
legends.
While the vast majority of visitors come to Postojna
just to see one or both of its star attractions, with
three proper hotels and many other guesthouses and
private accommodation options located in and around
the town, it makes a good base for exploring parts of
central Slovenia as well as the Karst region that extends
towards the Adriatic Sea and Italy - Trieste actually
being closer to Postojna than Ljubljana (35km and
54km away respectively).
88 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
Karst Museum
The Karst itself is a unique phenomenon, and one that
finally has its own focused museum exhibition. Through
dynamic modern presentations visitors here can explore
all aspects of the stoned landscape, from its creation in
prehistoric seas to modern day life on the rough terrain.
A large part of the exhibition is dedicated to the regions
spectacular caves and their fascinating history. Theres
also treasure in these halls, as silver and gold artifacts from
Predjama Castle can be observed. QKolodvorska 3, tel.
+386 (0)5 721 10 90, +386 (0)5 721 10 92, info@notranjs-
ki-muzej.si, www.notranjski-muzej.si. May-Sept: open
11:00-18:00. Oct-Apr open 09:00-15:00, 11:00-16:00 Sat-
Sun. Admission 3, students/pensioners 2.
TIC Postojna
Not your average tourist information centre. A blink and
youll miss it affair, the Postojna tourist information centre
is located in a modern-looking building on the side of the
road as you come into town, and is an excellent starting
point for more information regarding Postojna and the re-
gion. Wi-Fi is free, theres an iPad of additional information
and the usual mass of brochures. QTel. +386 (0)5 64 17
99 72, tic.postojna.info@gmail.com, zelenikras.si. Apr,
May, Oct, Fri - Sun 10:00 - 18:00, Jun & Sep 09:00 - 18:00,
Jul & Aug 09:00 - 21:00, Nov & Dec Fri - Sun 10:00 - 15:00.
Closed Jan - Mar
Restaurants
AVIO PUB
Found just off the runway at Postojnas small recreational air-
port, theres a large garden out back where diners can watch
the planes take off and land - many of which are taking visitors
on panoramic fl ights. Despite the name, this place is a full-fl
edged pizzeria, steakhouse and wine bar, with pizzas coming
crispy and hot from a wood-fi red oven, steaks grilled to per-
fection and a wide selection of Slovene wine from the cellar.
From Tuesday to Friday there are multi-course lunch specials
starting from only 6. Of course the cosy wood-covered inte-
rior is very pub-like in appearance, and there are four types
of draught beer on hand for those who are thirsty.QRakitnik
1a, Prestranek, tel. +386 (0)5 720 13 10, info@aviopub.si,
www. aviopub.si. Open 10:00-23:00, Sat-Sun and holidays
11:00-23:00. Closed Mon. TLBS
MAGIC GARDEN IN HOTEL JAMA
Drawing inspiration from the most beautiful and untouched
areas of the cave, this new restaurant within the park, and
part of Hotel Jama, aims to make your trip to Postojna even
more magical. The chefs work only with local produce, grown
in the karst environment, treating each ingredient with the
respect it deserves. The seasonal a la carte menu offers a
cutting-edge dining experience and an opportunity for culi-
nary excess, while staying true to local traditions. Theres a hall
that seats 200 for weddings and other events, along with two
terraces and enchanting views of the River Pivka. QJamska
Cesta 30, tel. +386 (0)5 700 01 03, info@postojnska-
jama.eu, www.postojnska-jama.eu.
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
 Postojna Cave Park
POSTOJNA CAVE
The largest cave in the karst region and most visited show
cave in all of Europe, words on a page can hardly do jus-
tice to the majesty of Postojna. So far, more than 24 kilo-
metres of galleries have been found, of which 5km are
open to the public. All the same, a visit here still takes up
much of a morning or an afternoon, as you make your way
through the most spectacular parts of the cave, at first by
a dinky little narrow-gauge train, and then on foot. There
are no stairs or difficult climbs along the path to or inside
the cave, so visitors with limited mobility should not have
any difficulties. Highlights of the cave include the enormous
stalacites and stalagmites, and the quite sensational concert
hall, which can (and does) hold 10,000 people. The caves are
also home to olms (or white salamanders), a blind amphib-
ian endemic to the subterranean waters of caves of this part
of Europe. This year has been even more special than usual,
as one of the olms has laid a clutch of eggs, a rare event
which happens just once a decade, so if you get lucky on All aboard the Postojna train!
your visit you may even catch a glimpse of some baby drag-
ons, as they have been dubbed by the international press. and first mentioned in the historical record in the year
QOpen every day, all year. March: 10.00, 12.00, 15.00. 1274. Perched under a natural archway 123m up a sheer
April: 10.00, 11.00, 12.00, 14.00, 15.00, 16.00 cliff face and surrounded by a thick stone wall, through-
out the centuries the castle has gained a well-deserved
reputation for being virtually impregnable. Nowadays
the castle is open to the public and serves as a museum.
It has been completely restored to its original grandeur,
and among other sites visitors can see the residential
quarters, the chapel and of course the dungeon. It is also
possible to see the legendary cave below the castle, al-
though some climbing and a minimal level of fitness, es-
pecially for scaling the narrow 37m Erazems Passage, is
strongly encouraged if not required. QOpen every day,
all year. March: 10:00-16:00. April: 10.00-17.00

Buses run from Ljubljana to Postojna every half hour from

05:30 until 23:00 (some of them stop in front of Postojna
Cave).
For any more information regarding Postojna Cave Park,
Postojna Cave has stalactites and stalagmites as far as the eye can see.
please use the following contacts; Jamska 30, Postojna,
tel +386 (0)5 700 01 00, info@postojnska-jama.eu, www.
postojnska-jama.eu.

See dragons in Postojna Cave acquarium

PREDJAMA CASTLE
Located some 10km north of Postojna is one of Europes
finest castles. Predjama Castle (or Predjamski grad,
Hhlenburg Lueg and Castel Lueghi in Slovene, German
and Italian respectively), was built in a Gothic style by the Predjama Castle is one of Slovenias most incredible sights.
Patriarch of Aquileia sometime during the 13th century (all photos Postojnska jama d.d.)

www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket March - April 2017 89

 Bohinj
Lake Bohinj. Photo: Matev Lenari
The alpine valley of Bohinj is a truly idyllic landscape,
steep mountains rise above quaint villages and lush
pastures, and at the end of the valley, in the Triglav
National Park, is the spectacular Lake Bohinj - the
largest permanent lake in Slovenia. The glacial lakes
fresh crystal clear waters are popular with swimmers
in summer, whilst its just one of the many natural
attractions to see and then there are also countless
outdoor activities on offer. As well as the rich nature
heritage, there are also plenty of opportunities to get
in touch with local history and culture - perhaps drop
by traditional cheese maker, visit some of the museums
and cute churches dotted throughout the valley and a
visit to a gostilna to try local specialties is a must. Despite
being just 30 minutes drive west of the tourist Mecca
Bled, Bohinj feels more isolated and rural, delightfully
less developed - it is quiet (nightlife is basically non-
existent), restaurants and accommodation tend to be
more down to earth and people here are attentive
and helpful. Bohinj is a great place for a day trip from
Bled and an excellent year round destination in its own
right, ski at one of several resorts in the vicinity, enjoy
an active holiday with the family or have a romantic
getaway in this beautiful setting.
Essential
Lake Bohinj (Bohinjsko Jezero)
Lake Bohinj, the jewel at the centre of this scattering of
90 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
villages in eastern Gorenjska, is absolutely breathtaking.
Come early in the morning out of season, just before
the sun has risen over the adjacent peaks to experience
its awe. Mist shrouds the banks of this still and flat alpine
wonder. The pure quiet of this location really brings na-
ture to life once more. Only birdsong emanates from the
surrounding Eden, the splash of one of Bohinjs yellow-
bellied fish, or the crash of Savica waterfall in the middle
distance. Perhaps the only other detectable sound is the
flap of the wings of large birds in flight over this crystal
clear lake. By Bohinj you can be at one with yourself, and
peace is unavoidable.
Savica Waterfall (Slap Savica)
Your time spent in Bohinj would not be complete with-
out a day trip to one of Slovenias greatest waterfalls.
To reach the waterfall its a roughly one hour walk up a
thickly forested slope. The waterfall itself drops a tower-
ing 78m into a large water sink, which is located at an
altitude of 500m. An inspirational sight, it has often been
written about by well-known Slovenian poets and writ-
ers. A small entrance fee is required at the entrance to the
site.QU7, Bohinjsko jezero, tel. +386 (0)4 574 60 10,
info@bohinj-info.com, www.bohinj-info.com. Admis-
sion 1.0 - 2.50.
Around Bohinj
Vogel View Point
The Vogel Ski Centre is one of our favourite places to
hit the slopes mainly because of the incredible pan-
oramic views of the Julian Alps and Lake Bohinj, but
you dont need to wait for the snow to check out the
views. In fact, without needing to worry about snow-
boarders cutting you off and with the mountainsides
a bloom with wild flowers the views are possibly even
more spectacular. There are also countless opportuni-
ties for hiking and mountain biking including at a newly
opened bike park up on Vogel, making it a great year
round destination.QUkanc 6, tel. +386 (0)4 5729 712,
info@vogel.si, www.vogel.si. During winter season:
08:00 -18: 00 (daily, every half an hour). During off
season 08:00-18:00 (daily, every half an hour). Dur-
ing summer season 07:30 -19:00 (daily, every half an
hour). Return tickets 15 adults, 10 children (family
discounts available).
Ski Bus
Every year Vogel Ski Centre joins the Ski Bus service,
which is free of charge for the guests of participating
accommodation in Bohinj. The Ski Bus runs from Bo-
hinjska Bistrica through the villages of the upper and
lower Bohinj valley in the morning, and vice versa in the
afternoon. The bus takes you directly to the lower Vogel
cable car station. Use of the service is only possible with a
chip card that guests receive from their accommodation
provider. The timetable can be found online. QBohin-
jska Bistrica, www.vogel.si/winter/prices-and-info/
ski-bus.
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
 Kot v pravljici.
Like a Fairy Tale.

Obmoje v Triglavskem
narodnem parku
Located in Triglav
National Park

LJUBLJANA - 80 km | BLED - 28 km
Ski Center & Amazing view point
www.vogel.si | www.bohinj.si
 Prekmurje
The mysterious land across the Mura river
Even the quickest look at a map betrays a lot about
Prekmurje. If ever there was a region of Slovenia that
could be described as being other, Prekmurje is it. A
thousand years of Hungarian rule will do that. The history
of Prekmurje and its people is intertwined with that of
Hungary, and various times of extreme Magyarization
as well as isolation from mainstream Slovene culture has
resulted in a local dialect that is virtually unintelligible to
most Slovenes. This isolation has also ensured the survival
of many old local traditions. All of this comes together
to create one of the most undeniably unique regions
in the entire country. The gateway to the Pannonian
plain, Prekmurje is divided between flatlands covered in
cornfields and the more hilly Goricko area in the north.
Formerly an important centre for the potters trade, today
it is a land of thermal waters, leading sleepy towns and
villages to transform into modern spa resorts. White storks
92 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
patrol many villages, adding extra weight to the unique
feel of Prekmurje. The region on other side of the Mura
River truly is a different experience. No bridge crossed the
river until 1924. Whilst connections have improved today,
Prekmurje still provides something different, something
worth savouring.
VULKANIJA ADVENTURE PARK
Goriko castle happens to sit on a particularly fascinating spot,
the site of the last volcanic eruption in Slovenia! This momen-
tous occasion occurred some three million years ago, and the
the area is now home to an adventure and educational park,
where Oli the Mole will help visitors unearth the ways of volca-
noes, as well as taking a journey to its centre. Originally opened
in 2013, the facilities have recently been renovated and ex-
panded, with even more activities to participate in, such as
volcanic games, state-ofthe- art 3D films that let visitors travel
with Oli through a lava tube to the depths of the Earths crust
and back again, and a wonderful geological museum. Great
fun for the whole family, as well as individuals and school
groups. Located in the region of Prekmurje in the northeast
corner of Slovenia, the park can easily be visited on a day trip
excursion from Ljubljana, but with a wealth of sites and activi-
ties in the surrounding area and some of countrys best food
and friendliest people, its well-worth considering a longer
stay.QGrad 174, Grad, +386 (0)2 553 10 00, info@vulkanija.
si, www.vulkanija.si. Open 10:00 - 18:00, Nov-Mar 10:00 -
16:00. Closed Mondays. Adults 10, students 8, children
6-15 7, families 25. Children under 5 free admission.
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
 Prekmurje
GEOLOGICAL MUSEUM
Located in the former tannery building, visitors can learn
more about the geological history of the Goriko region at the
wellpresented and informative Geological Museum. Theres a
wideranging collection of volcanic rocks, crystals, minerals and
the like from both Slovenia and abroad, and further interactive
content teaches visitors about the water cycle, mineral foun-
tains and fossils. In Olis Kitchen, Oli the mole and his assistant
chefs demonstrate the development of life with a playful cook-
ery exhibition, while the attic houses a small but beautiful ex-
hibition space for art works connected to geology and Goriko.

Moravske Toplice
Prior to 1983, this small municipality consisting of 28
setlements and some six thousand inhabitants was
known simply as Moravci. However, the decision was
made to add the toplice, or spa in Slovene, in order
to help promote the town as a major spa destination.
In fact, wellness and health tourism began here some
two decades prior to the name change, when thermal
mineral springs were first discovered. Known for their
so-called black mineral water, they attract visitors
from both Slovenia and abroad for their natural healing Get younger in Moravske Toplice
properties. In addition to two separate spa centres
(Terme 3000 and Terme Vivat), the municipality also and its surroundings!
boasts a handful of restaurants offering excellent local
cuisine, some great wine tasting opportunities and In the heart of idyllic Prekmurje you will find Moravske Toplice, a
even a fine golf course. well-known tourist destination in the northeastern part of Slove-
nia, being very famous for the babbling healing waters in Terme
TIC MORAVSKE TOPLICE 3000 spa and Terme Vivat spa.
Get the most out of your time in Moravske Toplice by visiting
the local tourist office, located in a modern building at the Paradise for hikers and bikers
western edge of town. The small but friendly information Nearly 100 of hiking routes, 11 themed hiking routes (1,8 20 km)
centre (like Prekmurje itself ) is packed quite literally floor Over 10 organised hikes each year
to ceiling with informational brochures, book, maps and About 250 km of marked routes, 11 themed cycling routes (6 42 km)
various souvenirs, from the typical t-shirts and postcards
to special handmade gifts from the region. Avid cyclists Events:
should make a point to ask for information about the net- Hiking down the Sladka pot path, 12. 3., Ratkovci
work of ten well-marked cycling paths that crisscross the Easter Fair: 13. 4. 15. 4., Mayday Fair: 27. 4. 1. 5., M. Toplice
municipality, while those who would rather in more he- Setting of maypole and celebration of midsummers Day, 30. 4.,
donistic pleasures can ask for recommendations about the M. Toplice
best local restaurants for sampling the traditional cuisine of
Prekmurje. QKranjeva 3, +386 (0)2 538 15 20, +386 (0)40
829 870, www.moravske-toplice.com, info@moravske-
toplice.com. Open 08:00-20:00 (08:00-18:00 in winter),
Sat 08:00-15:00, Sun and holidays 08:00-14:00.

MORAVSKE TOPLICE GOLF COURSE

Situated in the far northeast of the country - at the edge of the
vast Pannonian Plain in Slovenias Prekmurje region - this fine
eighteen-hole course is a welcome addition to the vast Terme
3000 resort. When building the course, special attention was
paid to the preservation of the original flora and fauna of the
area, which has led to some quite uniquely-shaped (and chal-
lenging) greens, fairways and sand traps. The highlight of the
course is the nearly 600 metre long 9th hole.QKranjeva 12,
Moravske Toplice, +386 (0)2 512 22 00, +386 (0)2 548 16 07,
www.terme3000.si, info@terme3000.si
www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket
For more information about the tourist offer:
TIC Moravske Toplice, Kranjeva 3, 9226 Moravske Toplice
I: www.moravske-toplice.com
E: info@moravske-toplice.com
FB: facebook.com/TIC.MoravskeToplice
INST: www.instagram.com/moravsketoplice/
T: +386 (0)2 538 15 20 M: +386 (0)40 829 870
March - April 2017 93
1

3
 Novo Mesto
Nestled in a bend of the Krka river, Novo Mesto is the
cultural and economic capital of Slovenias south-
eastern Dolenjska region. its name may mean new
town but at roughly 700 years old the town isnt
exactly a recent development. Founded in 1365 by
the Habsburg Arch- duke Rudolf iV the city was a
prominent trading centre in the Middle Ages and later
it became an industrial hub which continues today
with some of the countrys largest companies based in
the area. Thankfully the factories were built away from
the old town which is has been well preserved and is
really very pretty - charming old houses stretch along
the banks of the river, cobble stoned streets wend
through town and the citys oldest building, the 15th Wellness & design
Hotel Balnea
century Church of St Nicholas rests above all on the
highest spot in town. The heart of the town is Glavni
Trg, formerly a merchant district its now a promenade
lined with shops, cafes and restaurants with the
landmark Town Hall at its centre. its not just the built
environment which is attractive, across the river from
town is the tranquil Ragov Log forest - accessed via a
cute wooden bridge and with well-maintained paths -
its a great spot for a stroll. Qvisitnovomesto.si

OTOEC CASTLE
Photogenically located on an island in the middle of
the river Krka , Otoec Castle dates back to at least 1252,
when it first found its way into the anals of history as a
property of the Counts of Vinja Gora. Over the next 700
years ownership passed through a mlange of distin-
guished hands, including kings, noble families and even
the Catholic Church. The castle has seen many architec-
tural changes over the years, with minor alterations go-
ing on well into the 19th century. However, it can gener-
ally be said to have a Baroque style. After being largely
destroyed by the Partisans during the Second World War,
it has since been rebuilt and now serves as a five-star
luxury hotel owned and operated by the good people
at Terme Krka. QOtoec, tel. +386 (0)7 384 89 00,
booking@terme-krka.si, www.grad-otocec.com.

TERME dOLENjSKE TOPLICE

Located about 13km south west of Novo Mesto on the Top 7
edge of the expansive Koevje forests, Dolenjske Toplice wellne
is a destination offering everything one needs to relax.
hotel bss
Trivag y
Dolenjske Toplices warm (36-38 C) calcium-rich waters
drawn from depths of 1000m are said to have healing o
properties and we can attest to always feeling better af-
ter a soak. Fancier hotels in town like the historic Kristal
and Vital hotels have their own thermal baths whilst most
visitors head to the ultra-modern Balnea Wellness Centre
spa with indoor and outdoor thermal pools as well as a +386 8 20 50 310
staggering array of baths and saunas. As for further in- booking@terme-krka.si
dulgence there is no shortage of fine restaurants or luxu- www.terme-krka.com
rious massage centres in town. The pristine forests which
border the town are also worth exploring - a relaxing en-
deavour so long as you dont run into a bear. Zdraviliki
Trg 7, Dolenjske Toplice, tel. +386 (0)7 39 19 400,
booking@terme-krka.si, www.terme-krka.si.
www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket March - April 2017 95
 Directory
Embassies & Consulates
Australia
QK/L-3, elezna 14, tel. +386 (0)1 234 8675, fax +386
(0)1 234 8676, austral.cons.sloven@siol.net. Open
Mon, Thu 09:00-12:00, Wed 14:00-17:00, Closed Tue,
Fri, Sat, Sun.
Austria
QB-3, Preernova 23, tel. +386 (0)1479 07 00, fax +386
(0)1252 17 17, laibach-ob@bmeia.gv.at, www.bmeia.
gv.at/laibach. Open , Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu 8:30 - 12:00,
Fri 8:30 - 11:00. Closed Sat, Sun.
Bosnia & Herzegovina
QK-2, Kolarjeva 26, tel. +386 (0)1234 32 50, fax +386
(0)1234 32 61, ambihlju@siol.net
Canada
QL-3, Linhartova cesta 49A, tel. +386 (0)1252 44 44, fax
+386 (0)1252 33 33, canada.consul.ljubljana@siol.net.
Open 08:00-12:00. Closed Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun.
China
QL-3, Koblarjeva 3, tel. +386 (0)1420 28 55, fax +386
(0)1282 21 99, kitajsko.veleposlanistvo@siol.net. Open
08:00 - 11:00. Closed Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun.
Croatia
Q L-4, Gruberjevo Nabreje 6, tel. +386 (0)1425 62 20,
fax +386 (0)1425 81 06, vrhslo@mvep.hr, www.si.mvp.
hr. Open 09:00-13:00, Closed Sat, Sun.
France
QC-5, Barjanska 1, tel. +386 (0)1479 04 00, fax +386
(0)1425 04 10, contact@ambafrance-si.org, www.
ambafrance-si.org. Open 08:30 - 12:30. Closed Sat, Sun.
Germany
QB-3, Preernova 27, tel. +386 (0)1 479 03 00, fax
+386 (0)1 425 08 99, germanembassy-slovenia@siol.
net, www.laibach.diplo.de. Open , Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu
09:00 - 12:00, Fri 09:00 - 11:00. Closed Sat, Sun.
REAL ESTATE
The most popular real estate agency in Ljubljana for for-
eigners, diplomats and local buisness people, Stoja has
been operating in Slovenia since 1996, and specialises in
both residential and commercial rental properties in the
Slovene capital. They have a huge selection of houses,
apartments and business premises, and will happily as-
sist customers with all aspects of the rental process, as
well as buying and selling property around the country.
QDolenjska 242c, tel. +386 (0)1 28 00 860/+386 (0)41
652 141, fax +386 (0) 1 28 00 861, info@stoja-trade.si,
www.rent-a-realestate.com.
96 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
Diplomatic Corporate
Services
Diplomatic Corpo-
rate Services Slove-
nia Operated by Stoja Real
Estate, as the name sug-
gests Diplomatic Corporate
Services is a web portal and
associated service agency
that aims to provide for-
eigners (primarily from the
diplomatic and business community) living and travelling
in Ljubljana and elsewhere in Slovenia with all the relevant
information they could possibly need - from hotel and
restaurant recommendations to real estate services and
medical care. Their dedicated multi-lingual team is only a
phone call or email away, while their website also provides
a wealth of information.QDolenjska 244c, tel. +386 (0)1
2800 860, info@dcs.si, www.dcs.si. www.dcs.si.
Italy
QB-4, Snenika 8, tel. +386 (0)1 426 21 94, fax +386
(0)1 425 33 02, archivio.lubiana@esteri.it. Open 09:00 -
11:00. Closed Sat, Sun.
Macedonia
QJ-4, Rona Dolina, Cesta IV/2, tel. +386 (0)1 421 00 21,
fax +386 (0)1 421 00 23, makamb@siol.net. Open 10:00-
13:00, Closed Sat, Sun.
Montenegro
QF-2, Njegoeva 14, tel. +386 (0)1439 53 64, fax +386
(0)1439 53 60, embamon-lj@t-2.net. Open 10:00-13:00.
Closed Sat, Sun.
New Zealand
QH-1, Verovkova 57, tel. +386 (0)1580 30 55, fax +386
(0)1568 10 86.
Russia
QA-2, Tomieva 9, tel. +386 (0)1425 68 75, fax +386 (0)1425
68 78, ambrus.slo@siol.net, www.veleposlanistvorusije.
mid.ru/. Open 08:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun.
Serbia
QC-2, Slomkova 1, tel. +386 (0)1438 01 10, fax +386
(0)1434 26 88, amba.srbije.lju@siol.net, www.ambasadas-
rbije.si. Open 09:00-13:00. Closed Sat, Sun.
SPAIN
QTrnovski pristan 24, tel.+386(0)1 420 23 30, fax.
+386(0)1 420 23 33, emba.espa.eslovenia@siol.net
UK
QB-3, Trg Republike 3/ 4, tel. +386 (0)1 200 39 10, fax +386
(0)1 425 01 74, info@british-embassy.si, ukinslovenia.fco.
gov.uk. Open 09:00 - 12:00. Closed Sat, Sun.
USA
QB-3, Preernova 31, tel. +386 (0)1200 55 00, fax +386
(0)1200 55 55, usembassyljubljana@state.gov, slovenia.
usembassy.gov. There is no opening hours, but you
have to announce.
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
 STOJA TRADE d.o.o.,
Dolenjska cesta 242C, SI-1000 Ljubljana
T: +386 1 2800 860, F: +386 1 2800 861
E: info@stoja-trade.si

APARTMENTS I HOUSES I BUSINESS PREMISES I LAND

FOR RENT I FOR SALE I WE RENT I WE BUY
Stoja Real Estate Agency is the most popular
real estate agency in Ljubljana for foreign-
ers, diplomats and local buisness people.
Stoja has been operating in Slovenia since
1996, and specialises in both residential and
commercial rental properties in the Slovene
capital. We have a huge selection of hous-
es, apartments and business premises. Our
agents will happily assist customers with all
aspects of the rental process, as well as buy-
ing and selling property around the country.

www.stoja-trade.si I www.rent-a-realestate.com IMarchwww.dcs.si

www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket - April 2017 97
Chapter 19
www.facebook.com/LjubljanaInYourPocket March - April 2017 101
102 Ljubljana In Your Pocket ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
Dubrovnik and
Dubrovnik andNeretva
NeretvaCounty
CountyTourist Board
Tourist Board
www.visitdubrovnik.hr
www.visitdubrovnik.hr
 Deela okusov is located in the vicinity of one of
Ljubljanas well known cultural sight Krianke, only
10 minute walk from city centre. Our friendly staff will
serve you with delicious homemade food, prepared on
open grill fire. Our offer includes over 40 different types
of beer and you will be also able to choose from a nice
selection of traditional delicious Slovenian wines.

dezelaokusov.si | Eipprova 11, Ljubljana | +386 1 283 92 88