My mother always stops into this little pastry shop to stock up on mandulat, a Dalmatian turrón like concoction made of almonds, sugar, honey, and egg white, between wafers.
My mother has been going here ever since childhood and she vividly remembers that good behavior meant a stop into Tradicija for some goodies, mainly for menažerija, a marzipan duck filled with cookies and coconut flakes. Today these are the most popular items for kids as grandparents treat their grandkids with this yellow delights.
I popped into the little shop on Bosanska 2 this afternoon and asked a little about the business. The lady behind the counter, who has been working there for 5 years, told me she has been working there the shortest; most were reaching above 20 years of service. She was so proud to show and tell me about all the cakes and cookies they had in store and encouraged me to come in the mornings when the display is even more full. The same family has been running this since its opening in 1937; now onto the second generation.
Through the grapevine, I heard they make the best krempita (mille feuille with vanilla custard in the middle) in town; no packet custard, this stuff is made from scratch and after having a flavor of this fluffy sensation; I’ll have to agree. The richness of the custard was so apparent and every ingredient of this original recipe could be picked out.
Tradicija is a great place to stop if you want to get an idea of what desserts Croatians eat and make at home; and take some mandulat with you back home as a souvenir.
Address: Bosanska 2, Split
