The latest addition to Hiša Franko’s culinary empire is known as Hiša Polonka. Located in the heart of Kobarid, the beer and wine bar is a welcome addition not just to the town but to the entire area, where visitors from Slovenia and abroad have frequently had trouble finding a light authentic meal.

Until know, Kramar, who is in charge of wine and cheeses, has frequently directed sophisticated diners who wanted regional specialties at unusual hours to drive across the border to Italy, where culinary tourism is highly developed. Therefore, the opening of a more accessibly outpost not far from the flagship restaurant was both logical and smart.

A new beer – FEO
The opening also makes sense because Kramar, in addition to his work as a sommelier, has recently begun to brew craft beer. The FEO brand has its roots in the local 1713 microbrewery, which has undergone drastic changes – in terms of ownership (Kramar is now among its partners), its overall concept, and its visual identity.

And this year, FEO – which was named after the late Kobarid poet and musical artist Ivan Volarič Feo – has become the first beer served by Slovenia’s best restaurant. For now, its production – based on APE, pale ale, and Pilsner techniques, is still limited. About half of its overall production ends up in Hiša Polonka, the small beer and wine bar with a distinctive blue façade and a rustic wooden interior.

Kaja Sajovic, MMC; translated by J. B.