Degenija Restaurant: A Culinary Gem Near Plitvice Lakes

Degenija Restaurant, nestled in the village of Selište Drežničko, Rakovica, is a culinary haven just 4 kilometers from Entrance 1 of the Plitvice Lakes National Park. Named after the Degenija flower, a protected species of the Velebit mountain range, this restaurant offers a delightful blend of traditional Croatian and international cuisine in a modern and inviting setting.Over the years, Degenija has become a beloved spot for travelers journeying to the Adriatic Coast and tourists exploring the Plitvice Lakes, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site since 1979. The restaurant boasts a spacious terrace with 60 seats and an air-conditioned indoor area with 92 seats, providing ample space for guests to relax and savor their meals. The terrace offers a gorgeous panoramic view of the surrounding villages, lowlands, and forest-covered hills.The restaurant is known for its traditional dishes, with a focus on meat specialties characteristic of the Lika region. Guests rave about the freshly caught trout from the Gacka River and the Degenija veal steak in mushroom sauce with homemade gnocchi. The menu also features a variety of hot and cold dishes, grilled options, pasta, and delectable cakes and pastries. Younger guests especially enjoy the superb pizzas from the brick oven and the creative desserts crafted by the restaurant's pastry chefs. Seasonally, Degenija offers Croatian national meat classics such as veal under the lid and spit-roasted lamb or suckling pig.The restaurant's interior was renovated in mid-2020 by the architectural studio 4UHA, creating a striking and soothing ambiance that complements the magical landscape of Plitvice. Degenija is easily accessible, located next to the D1 state road.