Local Flavors Worth Slowing Down For
Inland Croatia is not only beautiful; its food and wine culture are something to treasure. In the Ozalj area and throughout Karlovačka županija, good things to eat and drink have always been part of everyday life. Thirty years ago, almost every village had its own milk, cheese, yogurt, fresh eggs, and homemade cured meats. Although you won’t see every farm producing these things today, the tradition remains strong in spirit and taste.
Here, the best culinary discoveries often happen in small ways: stop in a village, knock on a friendly farmhouse door, and ask where you can find something homemade. Even if they don’t sell food right there, locals will happily point you to the right place. These kinds of encounters are at the heart of slow tourism—real food, real people, and stories you’ll remember long after the trip.
Below, we list some recommended local producers and places worth visiting. However, we encourage you to explore beyond this list, discover your own favorites, and share them with us so we can share more of inland Croatia’s flavors with everyone.
OPG Mili Mali
Nearby, in Zajačko Selo, you’ll find OPG Mili Mali, run by Katarina Šoštar Meserko. This family farm celebrates garlic in all its forms, from aromatic black garlic to creative condiments. At Mili Mali, you can taste and buy garlic bouquets, black garlic, crispy garlic chips, ground garlic, pesto made from garlic stems, and more—each product handcrafted with care. Katarina’s approach is a perfect example of how local food traditions can be preserved and reimagined for visitors who want something authentic to take home.
Contact:
OPG Mili Mali, Zajačko selo 20, Ozalj, Croatia
Phone: +385 99 855 4931
Email: milimali@yahoo.com / katarinameserko@yahoo.com
Vinarija Šoštar
Near Ozalj, in the hills of the Vivodina area, you’ll find Vinarija Šoštar, a family winery led by winemaker Elvis Šoštar. Wine has been made here for generations, with a strong connection to local grape varieties. The winery is especially known for Frankovka and its traditional women’s harvest, a celebration of community and shared work. Visitors can taste honest, characterful wines that reflect the landscape and the slow rhythm of life in inland Croatia.
Contact:
Vinarija Šoštar, Vrhovac 63, 47280 Ozalj, Croatia
Phone: +385 91 506 9632
Email: elvis.sostar@gmail.com
Seasonal Markets and Food Events
Local food traditions in inland Croatia are best experienced at seasonal markets and community events. These gatherings bring together local producers, home cooks, and visitors, and offer a relaxed way to taste regional specialties and meet the people behind them.
Advent in Karlovac – during the winter months, the city center fills with festive stalls, local food, warm drinks, and seasonal treats.
Štrudlafest Jaškovo, near Ozalj – a well-known festival dedicated to traditional strudel, local products, and community life.
Plac Mljac Jastrebarsko – a farmers’ market event where local producers offer fresh, seasonal food and homemade products.