Upper Kirn Inn

The Zgornji Kirn Inn, located in the village of Kamnik pod Krimom, is one of those increasingly rare gems of Slovenian hospitality, where time seems to pass more slowly and where the emphasis is on the authenticity of home-made food . It is not a modern restaurant with a minimalist design, but a true classic inn , which opens its doors exclusively on weekends, which in itself testifies to a special rhythm and philosophy of operation. This is a place intended primarily for Sunday family lunches and visitors looking for an authentic culinary experience , far from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Praise for the home-made cuisine and pleasant ambiance

Visitors almost unanimously praise the quality of the food, which they describe as excellent and of an exceptionally high culinary level. The core of the offer is Slovenian cuisine in its noblest form. Among the dishes that left a special impression, the delicious beef soup with homemade noodles, veal steak in natural sauce and excellent apple strudel with a buttery taste are often mentioned. Many emphasize that this is one of the better local taverns, where each dish is prepared with care and emphasis on quality ingredients. The berivka is also particularly highlighted, the excellent taste of which testifies to the freshness and careful selection of vegetables.

The atmosphere in the inn is described as distinctly homely and pleasant. It is not a formal environment, but a place where guests feel relaxed and welcome. The personal approach of the staff, especially the owner Janez, who some guests describe as a "legend", also contributes significantly to this feeling. Such personal contact, where the innkeepers like to sit down at the table and chat with guests, creates a sense of authenticity that is often lacking in modern restaurants . Due to the pleasant atmosphere and good service, guests often stay until the evening hours, which confirms that Zgornji Kirn is not only a place for eating, but also for socializing.

Features that define the experience

One of the most striking features of the inn is the absence of printed menus. The menu, which focuses on tried-and-true, classic dishes, is presented orally by the staff. For some visitors, this may be part of the rustic charm, as it encourages interaction and trust in the kitchen's recommendations, while others may miss the transparency of prices and the entire menu. However, this approach allows for greater flexibility and a focus on seasonal ingredients. The wine list is also not written down, but connoisseurs report a wide selection of bottled wines, including both Slovenian classics and interesting foreign wines, which the host is happy to recommend and bring to the table.

Elements that call for improvement

Despite the mostly positive experiences, there are also areas that guests have pointed out that could be improved. The most consistently mentioned shortcoming is the toilets, which several visitors believe need renovation and do not meet the standard of the inn. This detail can significantly affect the overall experience, especially for longer visits.

There are also occasional criticisms of the preparation of individual dishes. While most of the food is praised, some guests have experienced less than happy dishes. For example, the veal steak was overcooked, the baked potato was underwhelming, and the meatball appetizer was unconvincing. While such fluctuations in quality may be a result of the kitchen's current inspiration, they point to room for greater consistency in the preparation of all the delicious dishes on offer.

Limited opening hours as key information

The most important factor that any potential visitor should consider is the extremely limited opening hours. Gostilna Zgornji Kirn is only open on Saturdays and Sundays. This decision emphasizes their focus on a quality weekend experience, but also means that visiting during the week is impossible. Due to high demand and a limited number of tables, reservations are almost essential, as the inn is often fully booked on weekends. Guests report that it is crowded, sometimes having to agree to a late appointment, which indicates the great popularity of the place.

Who is the Zgornji Kirn Inn for?

This inn is an ideal choice for anyone who appreciates and seeks authentic Slovenian cuisine and a homely atmosphere. It is perfect for a Sunday lunch with the family, celebrations in a close circle or simply for a gourmet getaway from the city at the weekend. Visitors who value the content on their plate more than a modern interior and who enjoy personal contact with the restaurateurs will feel great here. However, it is less suitable for those who expect modern standards in all aspects, including toilets, or who want more choice and transparency, which is offered by a printed menu. However, the limited opening hours require good planning of the visit.

• Location: Kamnik pod Krimom 60, 1352 Preserje, Slovenia
• Opening hours: Saturday (12:00–22:00), Sunday (12:00–20:00)
• Telephone for reservations: (01) 363 10 13
• Type of cuisine: Traditional Slovenian cuisine , Sunday lunch
• Price range: Medium (€€)