Three Kitchens, One Table, One Unforgettable Story: Chefs' Trilogy at Gostilna Repovž
Šentjanž na Dolenjskem—a small village in Slovenia—is home to the family-run Gostilna Repovž, which became a culinary hotspot this September as it hosted the first international JRE-Slovenia event. Titled Chefs Trilogy, the evening brought together three renowned chefs from Slovenia, Croatia, and Austria. They gathered around one table, in one kitchen, with a single vision: to create an evening that transcended borders and flavors.
The hosts, Grega and Sabina Repovž of Gostilna Repovž (Slovenia), are known for dishes that embody the authenticity of the Dolenjska region, honoring tradition and supporting local producers. For this event, they invited their long-time friend and colleague Stefan Eder (Der Wilde Eder, Austria), who, like Grega, is also a member of the international JRE board. Eder continues his parents' culinary legacy with a cuisine deeply rooted in nature and the Alpine environment. Together, they welcomed Stiven Vunić (Zijavica, Croatia), who, alongside his wife Tea, carries on the legacy of his father in running the family’s coastal tavern Zijavica, in operation for over four decades.
All three chefs hail from family-owned restaurants, where similar values and dynamics converge—a deep respect for tradition, reverence for the past, and the courage to explore modern interpretations.
Three chefs, three personalities, and three culinary styles came together in Šentjanž for one night and one story: a six-course dinner that began with individual amuse-bouches, each expressing the chef’s personal touch. What followed was a progression of dishes that reflected their philosophies and inspirations—taking guests on a journey through the flavors of sea and soil, meadows and forests, and even memories of childhood. The evening concluded with a sweet note of plums.
Each plate offered a taste of authenticity—the sea and the mountains seamlessly woven into a refined culinary experience that showcased the power of collaboration. The wine pairings, curated by the acclaimed Frelih winery, further highlighted the harmony among the three distinct cuisines.
Chefs Trilogy was more than a dinner—it was a tribute to friendship, family heritage, and the core values of JRE – Jeunes Restaurateurs: passion, tradition, and innovation. Guests were deeply moved by the sincere energy of the evening, the excellence of the food, and the warmth of the family atmosphere at Gostilna Repovž. Their response has sparked new momentum: the idea is set to grow into a tradition.
Chefs Trilogy symbolizes what JRE stands for—connecting chefs who tell their stories through food, blending traditions, and shaping the future of gastronomy.
Gostilna Repovž, president JRE-Slovenia
A new story was born in Šentjanž—one that united three countries and three kindred paths: family restaurants where heritage meets modernity. The excitement surrounding this first Chefs Trilogy is a clear sign: the idea will live on—as a tradition that continually brings together three kitchens, three philosophies, and three friendships.
See more photos: HERE
