In the totally biased view of the author, the best of all is Bistro Niki. Outside you can eat on the 48 seater terrace, shielded by large umbrellas and flanked with miniature budlia under the watching gaze of 3 large native fir trees. The 2 doorways are framed with delicate ivy and the windows have boxes festooned with local flora.

Bought in early 2000, Niki, a trained architect has designed and built the previous properties into a traditional bistro with stone walls, terracotta tiled floor, exposed beams and objects of local interest adorning the purpose built alcoves and shelves. The kitchen area is totally exposed to the public, Niki himself being chef, ably assisted by his wife Elvira who also manages the bar and serves customers. A further 12 seats are available inside.

The menu is printed in 4 languages, Croatian, English, German and Italian. The dishes comprise of cheese, pasta, fish, grilled dishes, garnishes, salads and pizza.

Must try dishes are scampi, squid, beefsteak and pizza. And don’t forget the freshly made bread. Prices range from 30 to 100 Kuna (approx 11Kn to £1). All meals are made to order, the main ingredients being bought fresh daily. Any reasonable request will be accommodated, (try the local mushrooms) and vegetarians are well catered for. The well stocked bar serves local beers (excellent), local wines (excellent), aperitifs and of course the local fire water, Grappa! Try one with Niki at the end of the night, and maybe a Jackie D!

One word of warning though, when you come back home and try local steaks or squid, you may well turn vegetarian - until you go back next time - such is the quality of the food. It makes you realise what food in your local restaurant is missing. No wonder curry is the most popular food in England!

Young and old and everyone in-between, try Croatia, try Istra, try Poreĉ, but you must try Niki’s. The countries past, as its flag, may be chequered, but the future is surely bright for these beautiful people in a beautiful country. I promise you will not be disappointed!