Delving deeper, Lena and Paul reveal their favorite aspects of Ireland and Croatia, with Lena cherishing Croatia's everyday quality of life and Paul admiring Ireland's professionalism and high business culture. As residents of Istria, they guide us through the region's hidden gems, emphasizing the beauty of central Istria away from the bustling tourist spots.
Photo: Lena (Brist archive)
The couple's passion for authentic Istrian olive oil takes center stage. They describe their family business, Brist, and its commitment to producing high-quality extra virgin olive oil. Lena and Paul even share a delightful encounter with celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay, who praised their olive oil on an episode of National Geographic's "Uncharted."
Photo: Lena (Brist archive)
For those eager to experience Istria, Lena and Paul offer gastronomic guided tours under the stars in their olive grove, providing an authentic taste of Istrian life. Additionally, they discuss the importance of gastronomy in culture, showcasing the diverse culinary landscapes of Istria and Ireland within their own household.
Language and learning also take the spotlight, with Paul navigating the challenges of learning Croatian, and Lena, an art historian and archaeologist, recommends must-visit sites in Istria which you have to visit.
To top it off, Lena graciously shares a traditional Istrian recipe for maneštra, inviting readers to savor the flavors of Istria at home. Join us on this enriching journey as we explore the intersection of Irish and Croatian cultures through the lens of Lena and Paul Puhar O’Grady in this interview.
Loreta, OLS Community Manager – Croatian