TAVÉRN A Hidden Steak Experience by Ivan uki

Trying to find a truly unique dining experience in Istria that’s more than just another restaurant? TAVÉRN by Ivan Uki offers just that—a private, intimate steak journey set in a secluded tavern. This isn’t your typical meal out; it’s an immersive evening where fire, craft, and silence come together to create something memorable.

What draws us in most? The exclusivity of a single table per night, the craftsmanship over open flame by a dedicated steak educator, and the complete privacy that guarantees no distractions. The experience promises a multi-course tasting, built around the art of fire-grilling, in a setting so hidden that the location remains a well-kept secret until booking.

One notable consideration? The experience is quite tailored and exclusive, which means it’s not suitable for large groups or those seeking a casual, quick meal. It’s best suited for travelers looking for a personalized culinary adventure in a quiet, authentic environment. If you love good steak, exclusivity, and a story behind every bite, this could be your next special evening.

Good To Know

• Exclusive Privacy: Only one group allowed per night, ensuring a quiet, personalized experience.
• Multi-course Steak Tasting: A curated journey through different cuts, all cooked over open flame.
• Location: Hidden Istrian tavern, revealed after booking, with no public access.
• Atmosphere: Fully prepared setting with fire, music, and ambient lighting on arrival.
• Host’s Expertise: Guided by a host who treats steak as an art form, ensuring quality and storytelling.
• Flexible Pacing: Guest-led rhythm, allowing you to enjoy the meal at your own pace until late evening.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What Makes This Experience Unique?

This isn’t a restaurant in the traditional sense. It’s a private, curated event designed for a single group, set inside a secret Istrian tavern. The location is kept confidential until after booking, adding an extra layer of intrigue. The space is entirely reserved for your party, with a fully set table, a roaring fire, and ambient music creating a mood that’s both relaxed and special.

Unlike many food tours or typical dinners, no menu is handed out upfront. Instead, the host introduces each course, explaining the cuts and their preparation, which enriches the tasting and makes the experience educational as well as delicious. The focus is on authentic fire-cooking, emphasizing technique, timing, and respect for the ingredients.

The Multi-Course Steak Tasting

The core of TAVÉRN’s experience is a four-course steak tasting, with each course highlighting different cuts, all cooked over open flames. These are not just random pieces of meat—each cut is carefully selected and prepared by someone who has honed their craft over eight years of tasting, traveling, and hosting.

Guests are served curated seasonal sides that complement each steak, adding balance and variety to each plate. The host explains each cut as they go, sharing insights that make the tasting feel like a culinary storybook. Guests have praised the attention to detail—from the timing of each course to the explanation of preparation methods, ensuring every bite is meaningful.

The Setting: Privacy and Atmosphere

The environment is perfectly suited for those seeking discretion and tranquility. The interior features a stone-walled tavern with a warm fire and soft lighting, creating a cozy yet refined setting. The background music adds to the ambiance without overpowering conversation or reflection.

Guests often linger after the meal, enjoying the fire, music, and the stillness that surrounds the space. The entire experience runs until the agreed-upon departure time—usually no later than midnight—so you can settle in and enjoy the night as long as you wish.

Practical Details and What’s Included

The experience costs $329 per person, which at first glance may seem high but is quite reasonable considering the exclusivity and craftsmanship involved. Included in the price are:

• The private dinner in a secluded Istrian tavern, with no other guests present
• A four-course steak tasting prepared over open flame, guided by a host
• Curated seasonal sides that are timed and served with each course
• A fully set atmosphere with fire, lighting, and music ready upon arrival
• The option to linger until late evening, with no rush to leave
• An additional option to purchase bespoke wooden boards as souvenirs
• Discretion and complete focus on your group

Guests enjoy a full, personalized experience that emphasizes quality over quantity. The atmosphere is relaxed, with the host maintaining a subtle, attentive presence—always available but never intrusive.

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What’s Not Included?

Guests are expected to bring their own drinks, as wine, beer, or spirits are not included or served. The experience is centered on fire-cooked steak, so dietary adjustments like vegetarian or vegan options are unavailable. Transportation to and from the location is also not provided, so planning your arrival is essential.

Since it’s a private experience, menu customization isn’t an option, and dietary restrictions are not accommodated—if you have allergies or specific preferences, it’s worth considering before booking.

The Logistics: Timing, Group Size, and Booking

This experience is by request only, which means it’s not offered as a regular public event. You’ll receive the location details after booking confirmation. The entire evening is guest-led, allowing you to set the pace and extend your stay until late. The maximum duration is flexible, but you should plan for around 2-3 hours at least.

While the experience is intimate and exclusive, it’s important to note that it’s not suitable for children, large parties, or those wishing for a quick meal. It’s tailored for the enjoyers of fine steak, authentic craftsmanship, and quiet ambiance.

If you’re a traveler seeking a culinary adventure rooted in tradition and privacy, this experience offers something rare. The focus on fire-cooking mastery combined with a tranquil setting turns a meal into a memorable, story-rich event. It’s perfect for couples celebrating a special occasion, foodies eager to learn more about grilling techniques, or anyone craving a quiet night of genuine craftsmanship.

The price reflects the exclusivity and level of detail, making it a worthwhile splurge for those who value quality over quantity. Just remember, this isn’t a casual dinner; it’s an intimate, curated experience designed to be savored.

Who Would Love This?

• Travelers who appreciate authentic, handcrafted food experiences
• Those seeking privacy and exclusivity in their culinary adventures
• Food lovers interested in learning about fire-grilled steak
• Couples or small groups celebrating something special with a personal touch
• Anyone wanting to escape the crowds and enjoy a quiet, atmospheric evening

Is this experience suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
No, the experience centers around fire-grilled steak, so it’s not suitable for vegetarians, vegans, or those with dietary restrictions related to meat.

Can I customize the menu?
No, the menu is set around steak and seasonal sides, and no customizations are available. Dietary preferences cannot be accommodated.

Are alcoholic beverages included?
No, guests need to bring their own drinks as alcohol is not supplied or served by the host.

How long does the experience last?
You can stay until an agreed departure time, typically until no later than midnight. The experience is guest-led, so it can be as long or short as you prefer within that window.

How many people can attend?
Since only one group is hosted each night, the experience is exclusive to your party, which can be small or medium-sized (details depend on your arrangement).

Is the location easy to find?
The exact address is shared after booking, as the setting is kept secret to maintain privacy and exclusivity.

Can I bring children?
No, the experience is intended for adults only, given the intimate setting and nature of the activity.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for an outdoor fire setting. No formal dress is required.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

TAVÉRN by Ivan Uki offers a rare chance to enjoy a personalized, fire-driven steak tasting in a private Istrian setting. Its emphasis on craftsmanship, atmosphere, and discretion make it stand out from more conventional food tours. Whether you’re a steak lover or someone looking for a memorable, quiet night with a touch of culinary artistry, this experience promises authenticity and intimacy.

Perfect for those who want to escape the crowds and indulge in a meaningful, sensory journey. It’s not inexpensive, but the exclusivity and craftsmanship justify the price for those after a truly special night. Just remember—this is a by-request experience, so plan ahead and be ready for an evening centered around fire, food, and quiet storytelling.

Overall, TAVÉRN is best suited for discerning travelers seeking a unique, intimate culinary experience in Istria, especially if they value craftsmanship, privacy, and a story behind every bite.

You can check if your dates are available here: