Keeping the Spirit of Our Tavern Alive Since 1982

The gastronomic stories that Kajak began to tell have increased travelers’ appetite to travel more often and discover new places that hold stories worth hearing.

“Šape” has such a unique story. For some of you, the name “Šape” is already quite well known, and for those who are meeting it for the first time, we are glad to introduce you to another hospitality spot worth visiting.

Behind the story of the tavern “Šape” stands Zhan Šape—the man who over the years has received full support from his family and relatives. The tavern has survived since 1982, enduring many good and bad times, including the pandemic crisis and more.

Zhan says that the story of “Šape” was born in Kruševo and represents a business started by his father. He tells Kajak that his father received great support from his wife and his mother, who at that time was already a retired cook.

His father’s strong desire to open a tavern was decisive in starting to build a hospitality story. First, the tavern in Kruševo’s old bazaar was opened, which is still in operation today. Besides the bazaar location, they now also have a beautiful mountain-style hospitality venue located on the ski slopes, surrounded by stunning nature and offering a magnificent view.

Zhan says that to survive in what you do, it’s not only the appearance of the place that matters, but also what is offered. In his case, food comes first, as well as hospitality.

Today, “Šape” is well known for its sausages prepared in the traditional Kruševo way, kare-ćebapi, the komit pleskavica, the Kruševo pot “Šape,” the “Ala Šape” salad, and many other specialties.

Zhan adds that a special characteristic of their food is that it is prepared with natural spices, which regular guests are already very familiar with.

The name Šape is the nickname of Zhan’s grandfather. Over time, “Šape” has become a trademark name for the entire family. His grandfather was known for his hat, cane, and girara, which are still displayed today in the tavern.