F4: Konoba Sikimić at Žlijebi

Summary

Konoba Sikimić is a family run restaurant located in the small village of Žlijebi, nestled in the mountains just above our villa, some 10 minutes of drive via Kameno village. The restaurant is known for its delicious, traditional Montenegrin cuisine and warm, welcoming atmosphere.

The highlight of the menu is lamb cooked in the traditional Montenegrin style, and veal cooked under a cast-iron bell.

The interior of Konoba Sikimić is rustic and cozy, with wooden tables and chairs, stone walls, and a fireplace. Outside, there is a spacious terrace with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

If you’re looking for a traditional Montenegrin dining experience, Konoba Sikimić is definitely worth a visit.

As for getting there, Žlijebi is located about 10 kilometers above villa, and can be reached by taxi. It is also possible to walk there along the old village path from Sasovići by Zelenika, about 2 kilometers to the restaurant.

What is it best for?

Konoba Sikimic at Zlijebi is a rustic, family-run restaurant that offers traditional Montenegrin cuisine. The restaurant has a warm and welcoming atmosphere that is perfect for a casual dinner with friends or family. The menu consists of grilled meats, fish, and seafood, as well as a variety of hearty stews and soups. It is a great place to try local specialties such as lamb cooked in a traditional wood-fired oven, fresh fish from the nearby river, and homemade rakija, a popular fruit brandy.

Overall, Konoba Sikimic at Zlijebi is best suited for those who are looking for an authentic dining experience in a casual and relaxed setting. It is a great place to sample the local cuisine and enjoy the company of friends and family.

What can we eat?

Traditional slow-roasted lamb is often cooked for several hours over low heat, allowing the meat to become tender and flavorful. It may be seasoned with various herbs and spices, such as garlic, rosemary, thyme, and oregano, and served with sides such as potatoes, vegetables, or bread.

A “sace” or “sač” is a traditional Balkan dish where meat and vegetables are cooked in a covered metal dish placed under hot coals or in a specially designed oven. The dish is slow-cooked for several hours, which allows the flavors to blend together and the meat to become tender and flavorful.

Fun facts about Zlijebis stone laced roofs?

The traditional stone roofing found in many parts of Montenegro, including Zlijebi, is known as “krov od škrilja,” which translates to “roof of stone slabs.” These roofs are made by placing flat slabs of limestone or slate over a wooden or stone frame, creating a durable and water-resistant covering for the house. The stones are often arranged in a decorative pattern, creating a unique and beautiful look.

The stone lace roofs, known as “kamena čipka” in Montenegrin, are a unique feature of the traditional architecture in Zlijebi village. These roofs are made entirely of stone, without any use of cement or other binding materials. Instead, the stones are carefully placed together in a lace-like pattern, with each stone supporting the one above it.

The technique of creating stone lace roofs has been passed down from generation to generation in Zlijebi and is believed to have originated in the 18th century. The roofs are not only aesthetically pleasing but also serve a practical purpose. They provide excellent insulation against both heat and cold, keeping the interior of the houses cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

Today, only a handful of houses in Zlijebi still have stone lace roofs. The tradition has been slowly disappearing due to the high cost of materials and the time-consuming process of building the roofs. However, the remaining houses with stone lace roofs are considered to be cultural and historical landmarks and are treasured by the local community.

Visitors to Zlijebi can admire the beautiful stone lace roofs and learn more about this unique architectural style by exploring the village and talking to the locals. Some guided tours are also available to learn about the village’s history and culture, including the traditional craft of making stone lace roofs.

Who can take us there?

Take a taxi.