Ruspante is redefining Croatian pizza with unique local approach

by croatiaweek
May 28, 2024
in Food & Wine

(Photo: Private album)

Pizzeria Ruspante has become a sensation in Croatia, thanks to its exceptional pizzas made from local ingredients.

Situated in the village of Sinac near Otočac, right next to the Gacka springs, Ruspante is not just about great food; it’s a culinary experience that draws food enthusiasts to Lika from all over, eager to taste pizzas with unique local toppings.

(Photo: Private album)

Ruspante is owned by Ante Svoren and his wife Antonija who returned from Ireland a few years ago and decided to open the pizzeria in the house where Antonija’s grandfather once had his blacksmith shop.

Ruspante distinguishes itself from other pizzerias in several ways. The majority of its ingredients are sourced from local family farms and small shops run by locals.

The menu pays homage to the region’s famous local ingredients, such as lamb, cheese, sausages and smoked trout, which is sourced from the nearby Gacka River.

The flour for the dough is also sourced from the nearby mill at Majerovo vrilo, which has been in operation for 200 years.

Majerovo vrilo in Sinac (Private album)

The pizzas themselves are technically well-prepared, with rich, elastic, and airy dough.

Standout creations on the menu include the “Lambizza” by Ribafish, a Lika-inspired pizza topped with, among other things, lamb, Lika base cheese and spring onions, and the “Sinčeranka” with smoked local trout and cheese.

Lambizza (Photo: Private album)

Sinčeranka (Photo: Private album)

Other must-try pizzas include the “Lika’s Winter” which is topped with homemade sausages, famous local škripavac cheese and čvarci (scratchings) and the house-named “Ruspante” where smoked chicken, gorgonzola and pesto are the stars.

Lika’s winter (Photo: Private album)

Ruspante Photo: Private album)

There are not only pizzas at Ruspante. For dessert, they offer delicious wood-fired oven-baked pancakes, served with homemade strawberry or plum jam, as well as delicious crepes.