ZIYP: What is your favourite place for coffee or going out in Zagreb?
Matija: I’m tossing up between the ‘Wine Bar Basement’ in Tomićeva and Pod Starim Krovovima ‘Under the old roofs’ in Basaričekova. I recommend the first for their attractive wines and snacks, and the latter for the gathering of interesting city folk and for its warm homely atmosphere.

ZIYP: What is your secret place to escape from the crowds?
Matija: A short evening walk to the bistro Pilana Bliznec (‘Sawmill Bliznec’) on Bliznec Street located in the Medvednica Nature Park. And having a coffee along the stream proves to be soothing after a hard working day.

ZIYP: Recommendation for a trip around the Zagreb area?
Matija: The City of Samobor!

ZIYP: What should guests take from Zagreb as a souvenir?
Matija: Have a sachet of sugar with coffee in one of the squares, take a dry leaf from walking in Zrinjevac or Maksimir Park, plus take a photo from one of the hidden courtyards. Then, have a chocolate ice-cream from ‘Orient’ or a cake from ‘Mak na Konac’, purchase a piggy bank from ‘LePrase’ and of course, a little something from ‘Ulični Ormar’.

ZIYP: Any tips for visitors craving to try local specialties?
Matija: Coffee and paprenjake (gingerbread) in the sun, or cream and cheese, veal under the peka (iron bell), cherry strudel...