Franko’s House

Hiša Franko, located in the idyllic landscape of the Soča Valley near Kobarid, is more than just a restaurant ; it is a culinary institution that has put Slovenia on the world gastronomic map. Under the leadership of self-taught chef Ana Roš, it has grown from a local inn into one of the most recognizable and respected culinary destinations in the world. Despite the information about its closure that occasionally appears, it is important to emphasize that Hiša Franko operates seasonally and is closed during the winter break, allowing the team to rest and prepare for the new season. Their official website always provides the latest information on opening hours and reservation options.

Central to the identity of Hiša Franko is a philosophy that Ana Roš calls "kilometer zero". This means that the cuisine is deeply rooted in its environment. The menu is a direct reflection of the richness of the Soča Valley - rivers, forests, pastures and mountains. They use exclusively local ingredients , sourced from small-scale producers, gatherers, shepherds, cheesemakers, hunters and fishermen in the immediate vicinity. This approach not only ensures exceptional freshness, but also tells the story of the land and its people through every bite. Guests can expect dishes that feature Soča trout, venison, kid, lamb, forest fruits and wild plants.

A culinary experience or just an expensive dinner?

A visit to Hiša Franko is designed as a holistic culinary experience. It's not just about eating, but a journey through flavors, textures, and aromas that Ana Roš and her team transform into artistic creations. Their approach has been rewarded with the highest accolade in the culinary world – three Michelin stars , which they have retained in 2024, and they also have a green star for sustainability. This places them among the handful of the best restaurants in the world.

Positive reviews from guests often highlight the innovation, boldness and surprising flavor combinations. Many describe the experience as a visit to a "taste museum" where each dish tells its own story. They emphasize the imagination and superb storytelling that is reflected both on the plate and in the attitude of the staff. For many, this is a unique experience that they will remember for a lifetime and is worth the price.

The other side of the coin

Despite its status and numerous accolades, the experience at Hiša Franko is not for everyone, as some critical reviews confirm. The most common complaints relate to two interrelated aspects: price and portion size.

• Price: Being ranked in the highest price bracket (level 4), a visit to Hiša Franko is a significant financial investment. The price of the tasting menu is 325 euros per person, drinks not included. Some guests feel that the prices are "astronomical" and that the value they get does not justify such a high amount.
• Portion Size: In keeping with the concept of haute cuisine, the tasting menu consists of a number of small courses. While some see this as an opportunity to sample variety, other diners left the restaurant hungry and disappointed. There are opinions that the portions are "catastrophically small" and that, despite the artistic presentation, they do not offer enough food.

Additionally, the "storytelling" element, praised by some, is distracting for others. One reviewer notes that the waiters' lengthy explanations of dishes and wines can be tedious, especially for those who already know the local producers and winemakers. In such cases, the carefully crafted experience can feel pretentious and inauthentic. The service, while generally professional, is also not always impeccable; one review mentions a cold and unapproachable sommelier, suggesting that individual diners' experiences may vary.

Menu structure and offerings

House Franko offers an exclusive tasting menu , which changes seasonally and is the same for both lunch and dinner. A la carte ordering is not possible. The menu consists of approximately 14 courses, and the entire experience lasts about three hours. In addition to the wine accompaniment, carefully prepared by the sommelier (sometimes Ana's partner Valter Kramar), they also offer non-alcoholic accompaniments of juices and other drinks that highlight the local terroir. It is important that guests notify the team of any allergies or dietary restrictions when booking, as they can adjust the menu if they are informed at least a week in advance.

Who is the Franko House for?

Based on the information gathered, Hiša Franko is a destination for culinary enthusiasts with open minds and deep pockets who are looking for more than just a meal. It is a place for those who appreciate art, innovation and are ready to accept the chef's vision without prejudice. It is an ideal choice for celebrating special occasions where price is not the main obstacle. On the other hand, it is probably not the best choice for those who expect from a restaurant mainly large portions of traditional food or do not like long, guided dinners. The decision to visit should be based on the awareness that this is a specific and avant-garde culinary experience , which polarizes opinions, but leaves no one indifferent.