Park Food Fest in Novigrad is one of those events that combines the best of two worlds: the relaxed atmosphere of a picnic in the park and top-notch Istrian gastronomy adapted to the modern "street food" format.
The main event takes place in the very heart of the old town, more precisely in the Novigrad Fishermen's Park and right next to the old port of Mandrač. The location combines the greenery of the park with the scent of the sea, creating a very casual yet visually appealing atmosphere. Instead of classic restaurant seating, food is consumed here on wooden tables, benches, or even on the grass, which gives the entire event a festival "vibe".
The main idea is "show cooking". Top local chefs prepare dishes that can be eaten right away or quickly, but are made from ingredients that are in season at that moment (end of May).
Seafood specialties: creative variations with scallops (capešanta), sardines, cuttlefish, or Kvarner scampi, often combined with Istrian pasta (like pljukanci).
There is usually no shortage of Istrian boškarin (indigenous beef) prepared in a modern way, such as sliders or slow-cooked dishes in sauce.
The festival is attended by local winemakers from the Novigrad and Brtonigla areas (the famous "four hearts" of the country), and lately there has been an increasing focus on Istrian craft breweries.
What sets Park Food Fest apart from typical fishing festivals is the aesthetics. Everything is decorated with great attention to detail - from the lighting in the treetops to the background music, which is usually lighter (jazz, funk or chill-out DJ sets), rather than loud folk music.
This is for foodies who want to try a variety of dishes (portions are usually smaller and more affordable than those in restaurants).
For families, because the kids have space to run around the park while parents enjoy a glass of wine.
For the team looking for a good introduction to an evening out or a relaxed afternoon after the beach.
Since it takes place in late May, the weather is usually ideal – warm enough for short sleeves, but without that summer heat and huge crowds that come in July.