Stiven Vunić

Stiven Vunić is the chef-owner of the renowned restaurant Konoba Zijavica, located in the picturesque coastal village of Mošćenička Draga. Coming from a long line of fishermen in the Kvarner region, Stiven grew up surrounded by the sea and its ingredients, which shaped his identity as a chef from an early age. He entered the world of hospitality at just 14 years old, and by the age of 17 he had already opened his first bar - a bold beginning that foreshadowed his entrepreneurial spirit.

His cooking philosophy is deeply rooted in the Adriatic and Liburnian culinary tradition. Stiven builds his dishes around what the sea and the local environment offer each day: langoustines, shrimp, freshly caught fish, octopus, and seasonal vegetables. His style is defined by clean flavours, respect for the ingredient, and a modern interpretation of regional heritage. Every plate reflects precision, craft, and an authentic sense of place.

Under his leadership, Zijavica has grown into one of Croatia’s standout gastronomic destinations, earning praise from international culinary circles and membership in respected European chef associations. Despite this success, Stiven remains grounded - he often says that true excellence comes from discipline, humility, and paying close attention to what nature provides.

Outside the kitchen, he is passionate about endurance sports such as trail running and mountain biking, finding that the physical and mental strength gained through sport fuels the intensity required in the culinary world. Stiven continues to push the boundaries of modern coastal cuisine, aiming to elevate Kvarner’s gastronomic identity while staying faithful to the traditions that shaped him.