Best described as an old-world fast-food counter, the buffet emerged from the habit of Trieste’s dockworkers and shopkeepers to take a quick midmorning snack, or “rebechin.” Conveniently located near Trieste’s seaport, train station, markets, and office buildings, buffets have served satisfying Mitteleuropean food for several centuries. Established in 1897, Buffet Da Pepi is said to be the oldest still in existence—and it seems to be the most popular as well. Boiled pork sandwiches, liptauer cheese on rye bread, and hard-boiled eggs make an ideal rebechin eaten standing at the counter with a glass of wine or beer. For a heartier meal, sit at one of the few small tables and order the “piatto misto.” You will be served a pig-shaped platter of assorted types of pork, including ham, bacon, sausage, and tongue, accompanied by sauerkraut, mustard, and freshly grated horseradish.
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Trieste’s Oldest Buffet
Best described as an old-world fast-food counter, the buffet emerged from the habit of Trieste’s dockworkers and shopkeepers to take a quick midmorning snack, or “rebechin.” Conveniently located near Trieste’s seaport, train station, markets, and office buildings, buffets have served satisfying Mitteleuropean food for several centuries. Established in 1897, Buffet Da Pepi is said to be the oldest still in existence—and it seems to be the most popular as well. Boiled pork sandwiches, liptauer cheese on rye bread, and hard-boiled eggs make an ideal rebechin eaten standing at the counter with a glass of wine or beer. For a heartier meal, sit at one of the few small tables and order the “piatto misto.” You will be served a pig-shaped platter of assorted types of pork, including ham, bacon, sausage, and tongue, accompanied by sauerkraut, mustard, and freshly grated horseradish.
