Eywa Hvar’s story begins in 2018, but its roots go back much further. The space we now call home (livingroom) was once the beloved Konoba Conte — a local restaurant where Igor had his very first job in the early 1990s. It was here, as a teenager, that he discovered his lifelong love for food, hospitality, and the unique rhythm of restaurant life. Since the age of 14, with breaks here and there, Igor has been guided by that same passion looking for a perfect place where true spirit of Hvar can finaly come alive.
When the opportunity arose to breathe new life into this familiar space, it felt like coming full circle. Together with his wife Matea, they embarked on a journey of complete transformation — not just of a restaurant, but of a vision. Eywa was born.“
Named after the “Mother Tree” from the film Avatar, Eywa stands as a symbol of connection: between people, stories, elements, and generations. From the beginning, the dream was to create more than just a place to eat — but a gathering point for the local community, and an invitation for travelers to experience the true, soulful Hvar. The one lived year-round by locals, not just glimpsed through summer postcards.
Matea’s creative eye and design sensibility shaped every corner of Eywa’s atmosphere. With her background as a yoga teacher, mindfulness flows through the space — every detail, every texture, every candle-lit evening has a purpose and a story. Nothing here is random or generic.
Igor, with the help of a few good friends, quite literally built the restaurant with his own hands. Benches, tables, lamps, shelves — each piece was crafted with care and intention. Eywa is “built, not bought” — infused with energy, emotion, and handmade charm. While others may try to replicate the look, the charm, the feeling, every wooden board here has its own story, and a before-after photo.
Just like the space, the food carries the personal touch of its creators. The menu is rooted in traditional Hvar cuisine, yet approached with creativity and freshness. Familiar flavors, modern twists, and something for every palate — honest food made with love, designed to nourish and delight.
Eywa is a true family story. Alongside Matea and Igor, their daughters Ema and Petra are part of the day-to-day life of the restaurant, bringing youthful energy and warmth that guests feel from the moment they arrive. Together, the family — along with their loyal local team — continues to shape Eywa into something, original, unique and alive.
It’s this blend of thoughtful design, soulful food, local spirit, and intergenerational energy that makes Eywa truly one of a kind — as beautifully captured by our friend Paul Bradbury in his video tribute to our story.
