Tomaž Kavčič of Gostilna Pri Lojzetu in Zemono Manor near the western town of Vipava has been named the chef of the year 2025 by Gault & Millau Slovenia as Hiša Franko in Kobarid further to the west, run by star chef Ana Roš, was again declared the best of the best.

Hiša Franko, the only Slovenian establishment with three Michelin stars, and Gostilna Pri Lojzetu are among the 13 restaurants that were awarded the highest rating of four toques, three more than in the past two years.

The ten restaurants that retained their top rating for the third year in a row include Grič in Šentjošt nad Horjulom, Hiša Denk in Zgornja Kungota, Ošterija Debeluh in Brežice, Restaurant Milka in Kranjska Gora, Strelec in Ljubljana, Mak in Maribor, Pavus in Laško and JB Restaurant in Ljubljana.

Galerija Okusov in Petrovče, Gostilna Mahorčič in Rodik and Gostilna Repovž in Šentjanž won the highest rating from the renowned French gastronomic guide for the first time.

Gault&Millau also awarded three toques to an additional 31 restaurants, one more than last year.

The chef of the future award went to Jure Brložnik of the micro restaurant Miza za Štiri in Zgornja Polskava, and the chef of tradition award went to Primož Pintar of Gostišče Tolc in Spodnja Sorica.

Jure Dretnik of GT19 in Slovenj Gradec is the winner of the young talent award, and Nina Bratovž of JB was declared the best sommelier.

The best confectioner of 2025 title went to Zvezda in Ljubljana, while Gourmet & Bistro Kodila, also in the capital, was recognised as the most popular, trendy and affordable restaurant.

"This time we truly celebrated our exceptional restaurateurs and winemakers, who complement their service," Gault&Millau Slovenija director Mira Šemić said as the awards were presented in Ljubljana on 18 March.

Maja Pak Olaj, the head of the Slovenian Tourist Board, said "Slovenia is consolidating its position as one of the most exciting culinary destinations in the world".