Konoba Maslina Vrisnik – Škartoceti, Peka and Dinner Among the Olive Trees

Konoba Maslina is located on the northern side of Vrisnik, approximately four kilometres from Jelsa, on a quiet hillside surrounded by olive groves. The approach is not accidental; the final stretch leads along a winding gravel road towards the konoba, sufficiently distanced from traffic and houses to create a sense of peace upon arrival, which makes this place special.

This small family-run konoba, operated by the Bojanić family, focuses on traditional Dalmatian cuisine. The menu features peka, fish, meat, homemade starters, and products made from their own olives, but the standout dish is the škartoceti – an old Dalmatian specialty that is rarely found on menus today.

Terrace Among the Olive Trees

The outdoor terrace accommodates around 40 guests and is situated in the midst of the olive groves, offering unobstructed views of the surrounding villages, the island of Brač, the Makarska Riviera, and Biokovo.

The hillside location provides a pleasant breeze, particularly enjoyable during hot summer evenings. It is best to arrive while there is still daylight, as the sunset highlights how Maslina is set apart from the tourist bustle along the coast.

As night falls, the atmosphere becomes even more tranquil – free from traffic and urban noise, surrounded by olives and nature.

Škartoceti – A Rare Traditional Dalmatian Dish

The most intriguing specialty of the house is the škartoceti.

These are beef rolls filled with a mixture of pancetta, parsley, garlic, and spices. The dish is prepared slowly over several hours, and the family recipe includes homemade prošek.

Historically, škartoceti were primarily made for special occasions. Today, they are hard to find even in restaurants that specialise in traditional Dalmatian cuisine, making them one of the best reasons to visit Maslina.

If you wish to try something not commonly offered in most konobas on Hvar, this dish is worth highlighting.

Lamb and Veal Under Peka

Peka is another significant part of the menu.

Lamb and veal are slowly cooked with potatoes and vegetables under an iron lid covered with embers. This method of preparation takes time, but it keeps the meat tender while the potatoes absorb the juices and the aroma of the fire.

Peka is particularly suitable for two or more people who want a shared main dish and a more leisurely dinner.

Due to the lengthy preparation, it is necessary to order in advance.

Octopus Under Peka

For those who prefer seafood, octopus is also prepared under peka.

The octopus is cooked with potatoes and vegetables, and the long cooking time under the embers gives it a tender texture and fuller flavour. During the summer, this variant of peka is one of the more interesting choices as it is lighter than a large meat meal.

The octopus under peka should also be arranged in advance.

Octopus Salad and Homemade Fish Pâté

Dinner can begin with simple Dalmatian starters.

Among the characteristic choices are octopus salad and homemade fish pâté. Both dishes complement the konoba's ambience – they are simple, Mediterranean, and do not attempt to disguise the main ingredient with excessive additions.

They pair well with homemade olives, olive oil, and bread.

Olives and Oil from the Bojanić Family

The name Maslina was chosen not just because of the surrounding olive groves.

The Bojanić family has been involved in the cultivation and processing of olives for many years, so their homemade olive oil, olives, and olive paste can be tasted at the konoba.

This is an important part of the place's identity. The olive grove is not merely decoration around the restaurant, but part of the family production linked to the food served at the table.

Homemade Prošek

Prošek holds a special place on the menu.

It is used in the preparation of škartoceti but can also be served chilled as a dessert wine. It pairs well after dinner or with dessert, especially for those wishing to remain within the realm of traditional Dalmatian flavours.

The combination of their own olives, homemade prošek, and old recipes gives Maslina a much more personal character than a typical restaurant.

Figs in Prošek for Dessert

Desserts follow the konoba's simple philosophy.

Figs soaked in prošek, served with vanilla ice cream, stand out in particular. Homemade ice cream and a cake of the day are also available.

The figs and prošek naturally connect the dessert with the Dalmatian landscape and nicely round off the meal after peka or škartoceti.

No Music Here

One detail that particularly distinguishes Maslina from most restaurants is the absence of music.

This is an intentional part of the concept. Instead of music from speakers, the sounds of nature, crickets, the wind among the olive trees, and conversation at the tables fill the evening air.

At a time when nearly all tourist establishments are filled with music, this silence becomes one of Maslina's greatest features.

Arriving by Car and Parking

The konoba is located off the main road through Vrisnik, and arriving by car is the most practical option.

The final part of the approach leads along a narrow, winding gravel road through the olive groves. The road is passable for cars, but it is advisable to drive slowly, especially when passing and after dark.

There is free parking for guests next to the konoba, so there is no need to leave the car in the village or walk a long distance. The parking area has enough space for the usual number of guests, which is particularly convenient given the location's distance from the centre of Vrisnik.

If visiting for the first time, it is advisable to arrive before dark – it makes it easier to navigate the final gravel approach, and you can also enjoy the view before dinner.

It’s Worth Strolling Through Vrisnik

If coming from Jelsa, it makes sense to arrive a little earlier and explore Vrisnik before dinner.

Old stone houses line the hillside leading to the parish church of St. Anthony the Abbot at the top of the village, and the entire area retains much more of a rural character than the coastal tourist spots.

A visit to Maslina can easily be combined with a tour of Vrisnik, Pitava, and other inland villages on Hvar.

Who is Konoba Maslina Best For?

Maslina is a good choice for guests who are not looking for a large restaurant with an extensive menu, but rather a peaceful dinner, home-cooked cuisine, and a unique setting.

Peka is excellent for groups, but what truly sets the konoba apart are the škartoceti, their own olive products, the view from the hillside, and the complete absence of music.

It is best experienced without haste – arriving before sunset, parking next to the konoba, sitting among the olives, ordering something prepared in the traditional way, and staying as evening falls over Vrisnik.

Useful Information

• Type of establishment: small family konoba
• Location: Vrisnik, inland on the island of Hvar
• Distance from Jelsa: approximately 4 km
• Position: northern side of Vrisnik, on a hillside among olive groves
• Terrace: around 40 outdoor seating places
• View: surrounding Hvar villages, Brač, Makarska Riviera, and Biokovo
• Cuisine: traditional Dalmatian
• Main specialty: škartoceti made to an old family recipe
• Škartoceti: beef rolls filled with a mixture of pancetta, parsley, garlic, and spices, served with homemade prošek
• Peka: lamb, veal, and octopus with potatoes and vegetables
• Ordering peka: must be arranged in advance
• Starters: octopus salad and homemade fish pâté
• Olives: the family produces their own olives, olive oil, and olive paste
• Prošek: used in cooking and served as a drink
• Desserts: cake of the day, homemade ice cream, and figs soaked in prošek with vanilla ice cream
• Music: no music; emphasis is on peace and the sounds of nature
• Pets: allowed
• Access: the final part leads along a winding gravel road
• Parking: free parking next to the konoba, with ample space for guests
• Best time to visit: in the evening, to enjoy the view and sunset
• Special feature: rare škartoceti, family olive products, and an exceptionally peaceful dinner among the olive trees