Cap Aureo Earns Its First Michelin Star
Cap Aureo, Maistra’s restaurant at the Grand Park Hotel Rovinj, has proudly received its first Michelin star under the leadership of Chef Jeffrey Vella. Meanwhile, Agli Amici Rovinj, another Grand Park establishment operating in collaboration between Maistra and acclaimed Italian chef Emanuele Scarello, maintained its two-star rating, remaining Croatia’s only restaurant with this distinction.
Since opening in 2019 as part of the luxurious Grand Park Hotel, Cap Aureo has built its concept based on seasonality, local ingredients, and a creative approach to vegetables, proudly describing itself as a “vegetable-loving place”. The tasting menu features about twenty courses that rotate every few weeks, reflecting changes in the microclimate and ingredient availability. The wine list gives priority to Croatian winemakers and includes a selection of sparkling wines, vintage champagnes, and selected labels from the region.
“This star recognises not only our team but the entire philosophy of Cap Aureo – a cuisine inspired by the landscape, the seasons, and a profound respect for the nature that surrounds us. I am honoured by this recognition and grateful for the opportunity to offer our guests something authentic, Istrian-inspired, and at the same time contemporary,” said Cap Aureo’s chef, Jeffrey Vella.
With this new star, Rovinj now stands as Croatia’s only destination with three Michelin-starred restaurants, further cementing its status as the region’s top gastronomic hub. Maistra emphasises that strategic investment in haute cuisine and collaboration with top chefs remain key elements in positioning Rovinj as a luxury destination.
“Cap Aureo’s first Michelin star and Agli Amici Rovinj’s continued two-star status reflect years of vision, dedication, and teamwork. This recognition boosts Rovinj’s and Croatia’s standing on the global gastronomic stage and gives us at Maistra an additional incentive to continue developing exceptional culinary concepts,” said Tomislav Popović, CEO of Maistra Hospitality Group.
Additionally, Tekka by Lone (Hotel Lone) and Wine Vault - Levante Edition (Hotel Monte Mulini) have retained their Michelin Guide recommendations, highlighting Maistra’s broad commitment to culinary excellence.
