Ivan Barčot

Born in Vela Luka, on the island of Korčula, Ivan Barčot represents the new generation of Dalmatians who are redefining Mediterranean gastronomy with passion, resilience, and authenticity. At only 18 years old, he has already demonstrated a deep dedication to his craft — one that began at home, surrounded by a family with more than 40 years of culinary tradition.

Ivan’s love for cooking was first inspired by his grandmother, a former pizza maistor who once competed in Italy. Watching her work with love and precision sparked his own fascination with food. His family’s small bistro in Korčula further strengthened his connection to local flavours and the values of hospitality that define Dalmatian culture.

He studied at the Split Tourism and Hospitality School, a regional center of excellence, where he refined his technical skills and began shaping his professional identity. During those years, he travelled every weekend by ferry between Split and Vela Luka — a demanding routine that reflects both his discipline and his unbreakable bond with home.

Since graduating, Ivan has gained experience in top restaurants across Croatia, including Corto Maltese in Split, Mano² in Zagreb, and Kužina in his hometown. His ambition is clear: to one day open his own restaurant, showcase the best of Dalmatian cuisine, and earn a Michelin star as recognition for his hard work and creativity.

For Ivan, cooking is more than a profession — it is a heartfelt expression of love, culture, and identity. He takes pride in his island roots, viewing them not as limitations but as a source of strength and inspiration.