Although the locality of Pirovac has bountiful options for cheap eats and rustic dining, Konoba Boba in nearby Murter provides a gourmet experience for travellers who wish to enjoy fine Dalmatian cuisine. Although an island, Murter is accessible to Villa Lava by car (15 minute journey), as it is connected to the mainline by a drawbridge. Murter is a bustling seaside community, rich with both sandy beaches and historical sites.
Led by Croatian Chef of Year 2018 (awarded by the Gault & Millau Guide), Vjeko Bašić, Boba has evolved from a small family taverna to the most elegant eatery in the area. This does not mean that substance has been lost where style is gained; Boba provides itself on using authentic and discernibly local produce. The 80 outdoor seats (there are another 50 inside) are surrounded by a kitchen garden, alive with Mediterranean herbs. Local fishermen are considered Boba’s ‘own’ and supply the restaurant with rich Adriatic favourites, such as sea urchin and oysters as well as fresh, ever-changing Catch of the Day. Your waiter will be able to tell you exactly where your unfiltered olive oil has come from, as they serve it with baked-on-site bread upon your arrival.
This local menu is built on simple ingredients- prepared lavishly and presented beautifully. One of our favourites is the silky, melt-in-your-mouth Tuna Tataki. Although the perfect pieces of tuna, with horseradish foam and wasabi taste of Japan- a Dalmatian touch is added pickled caper leaves and rock samphire on ice. Croatian truffles also feature heavily- served with cream and tagliatelle or shaved generously over Sea Bass Carpaccio. If you like to be surprised, Boba also offers a 5- or 7-course Chef’s selection menu with wine pairings. And as the restaurant has its own dedicated pastry chef in Tonka Klarin, whether you’re stopping for lunch or having a 3-course dinner…skipping dessert would be a shame.
Although Konoba Boba provides a gourmet experience with gorgeously eccentric amuse-bouches, sommelier service and beautiful surroundings, dinner for four with wine comes to around 2000kn (226 GBP/300 USD). Make sure you book in advance if visiting in-season, locals and tourists alike flock to Boba to enjoy beautiful food in a beautiful setting.