The Slovak Goose and Duck Feast is a time-honoured tradition that has been celebrated in the small village of Slovensky Grob for over 100 years. This unique culinary experience allows visitors to indulge in some of Slovakia’s most traditional dishes, such as roasted goose and duck, potato pancakes, and pickled vegetables. In this blog, you will explore the authentic Slovak Goose and Duck Feast in Slovensky Grob, delving into the history of the feast and providing a guide to experiencing the true essence of Slovakian cuisine. So, come along on this journey and discover the mouth-watering flavours of the Slovak Goose and Duck Feast.
Slovensky Grob is famous for roasted goose and ducks. However, many restaurants in Bratislava have tried to copy the tradition and serve the same dish. If you want to experience the true essence of this feast, head to Husacina u Jakuba, a restaurant that has been doing this feast for decades.
How to get to Slovensky Grob
Slovensky Grob is a small village located approximately 20 kilometres east of Bratislava, the capital city of Slovakia. The village is easily accessible by car or public transportation.
If you’re travelling by car, you can take the D1 motorway from Bratislava towards Trnava and exit at Senec. From there, follow the signs to Slovensky Grob. The journey takes around 30 minutes, and parking is available in front of each restaurant.
If you’re using public transportation, you can take a bus or train from Bratislava to Senec and then transfer to a local bus to Slovensky Grob. The journey takes around an hour, depending on the route and schedule.
Alternatively, you can book a taxi or private transfer from Bratislava to Slovensky Grob. It is a convenient option if you plan to try traditional aperitifs or wine.
When to visit
When is the best time to visit? The feast season starts in September and peaks between the end of October and the beginning of December. During this time, you can experience the authentic taste of roasted goose and duck.
Many companies go there for team dinners. Families from the whole country go there for family dinners. I recommend reserving a few weeks before your visit, as it can get hectic.
What to eat
Before indulging in the feast, I recommend preparing your stomach with an aperitif. The most popular aperitifs are “Hruškovica” (a local spirit made from pears), “Slivovica” (a local spirit made from plums), and “Jablčkovica” (a local spirit made from apples). Hruškovica with Vinea (a soft drink made from grapes) is popular among locals.
My favourite part of the whole experience is the starter – the liver. You can choose between duck or goose liver, depending on your preference. The liver is served with pickled vegetables such as cucumber, cabbage, paprika, and bread. I recommend dipping the bread into the fat – it’s a unique experience you won’t find anywhere else.
Now, it’s time for the main dish – the roasted goose or duck with potato pancakes and cabbage. The cooks bake goose or duck in a clay baking pan explicitly designed for them, giving them a crispy exterior and tender, juicy meat. The potato pancakes perfectly complement the rich and flavorful meat, while the cabbage adds a touch of acidity that balances the dish.
Don’t worry if you can’t finish everything – you can always take the leftovers home and enjoy them later. Despite years of trying to finish everything, many still find themselves unable to conquer the massive portion sizes.
If you still have room for dessert, the restaurant offers various options, including apple and poppy seed, cherry and poppy seed, and cherry and cottage cheese strudel. Each dessert is made with traditional Slovak ingredients, adding the perfect sweet note to the end of your meal.
The Slovak Goose and Duck Feast is a culinary experience that should not be missed. From the unique aperitifs to the mouth-watering main dish and traditional desserts, this feast is an essential part of Slovak culture and a highlight of any trip to Slovakia. So, come prepared to indulge in a feast fit for a king and experience the authentic taste of Slovakia.