Boštjan

His style is defined by the authentic flavors of Dolenjska, where root vegetables and barley take center stage. The restaurant is a place where tradition meets modernity, yet always remains true to its local roots.

Boštjan Rakar believes that cuisine should evolve with the times while staying rooted in the influence of those who came before. His style is simple yet unmistakable – flavors that guests instantly connect with Dolenjska and the comforting sense of home the region embodies.

Root vegetables are his cornerstone, as they are deeply woven into the region and form the backbone of many traditional dishes. On his plates, they bridge past and present – ingredients that have always been there, yet reimagined in ways that resonate with today’s diner. Through his cooking, he invites guests to taste more than flavor alone – to experience the story of the land, its people, and the heritage that continues to shape this cuisine.

Simple yet rich, barley is a symbol of Dolenjska cuisine – a dish that has nourished generations and one that Rakar knows how to elevate into a true culinary experience. In it lies the warmth of home, memories of childhood, and at the same time space for modern interpretations.

His favorite ingredients are brassicas, symbols of homeliness and a deep connection to the land. In them, he sees the strength of simplicity – ingredients that, with the right touch, shine on the plate. His cooking is honest and straightforward – free of unnecessary ornamentation, yet full of meaning.

Rakar’s philosophy is clear: cuisine is not just food, it is a story. Every dish carries a message about who we are and where we come from. Gostilna Rakar is therefore not only a place to eat, but a place of experience – where tradition intertwines with innovation, where simplicity is raised to art, and where the guest leaves with more than just taste. They leave with the feeling of having been part of Dolenjska’s story, written on the plate.