Exclusive Culinary Journey by The Esplanade Zagreb and Pera Palace Hotel
On Tuesday, April 29 at 7:30 PM, esteemed Chef Uğur Alparslan and his team from the Pera Palace Hotel in Istanbul will showcase their culinary artistry at the Esplanade Zagreb Hotel.
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United by history as grand hotels built for the elite travelers of the Orient Express, Pera Palace Hotel and Esplanade Hotel bring to Zagreb an extraordinary evening that blends history, gastronomy, and the glamour of the golden age of luxury travel.
The iconic Esplanade Zagreb Hotel is celebrating its centennial this year, and in honor of this milestone, with the support of the Embassy of the Republic of Türkiye in Zagreb, Consulate general of the Republic Croatia in Istanbul and Turkish Airlines, the Hotel will host an exclusive gala dinner featuring the culinary team from one of Turkey’s most renowned hotels – Pera Palace Hotel in Istanbul – which, similar as the Esplanade, was built for the passengers of the famous Orient Express. This Istanbul jewel, a symbol of luxury and elegance, has hosted some of the world’s most esteemed personalities over its 130+ years of existence, including Agatha Christie, Ernest Hemingway, Alfred Hitchcock, King Edward VIII, Franz Joseph, Jacqueline, Kennedy Onassis, Greta Garbo, and Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, whose favorite room, 101, has been transformed into a museum.
Join the Esplanade for a gala evening celebrating a century of culinary excellence, tradition, renowned hospitality, and culinary heritage, connecting two cities and two legendary hotels along the iconic Orient Express route.
Step into the magnificent Esplanade Hotel and indulge in a fantastic fusion of Ottoman cuisine and the unique flavors of Istanbul, accompanied by festive music and a welcome drink – traditional Turkish Rakı. Chef Uğur Alparslan and his culinary team will take you on a gourmet journey through the vibrant tastes of Turkey. As the Director of Culinary Arts at Pera Palace, Chef Alparslan is a master of Ottoman cuisine, modern Turkish gastronomy, and contemporary haute cuisine. Over his career, he has prepared meals for royal families, collaborated with culinary legends such as Paul Bocuse and Alain Ducasse, and even recreated authentic Ottoman dishes for the elite Orient Express train. His unique approach combines the traditional and the modern, showcasing a culinary experience that celebrates the finest of Turkish heritage.
A Culinary Journey to the Heart of Istanbul
For this occasion, Chef Uğur Alparslan has created a unique five-course menu that encapsulates the essence of Istanbul’s rich gastronomic tradition and the sophisticated culture of fine dining. Each dish invites you to discover Turkish cuisine in a new and exciting way, creating a feast for the senses and the soul. The menu takes you through the splendor of the Topkapi Palace, the lively spice markets, and the serene beauty of the Bosphorus – each bite is a journey through time and space, offering a taste of the city’s rich heritage, warm hospitality, and timeless charm. The evening begins with a welcome drink Turkish Rakı and accompanying bites, followed by a selection of Ottoman mezze appetizers. The lavish menu features ingredients such as dates, pistachios, shrimp, coriander, and artichokes, with flavors enhanced by traditional spices like saffron, cumin, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Guests will be delighted by seafood börek with turmeric sauce, tomato and basil, and lamb chops marinated with herbs, served with smoked eggplant cream. The sweet finale features Noah’s pudding – a traditional dessert made with fresh and dried fruits, grains, and nuts – alongside the obligatory rahatluk, served with a cup of authentic Turkish tea.
“We are thrilled about this exciting culinary collaboration between the esteemed Pera Palace Hotel in Istanbul and the iconic Esplanade in Zagreb. Both hotels share incredibly rich and fascinating history. With Esplanade celebrating its 100th anniversary this April, I believe this will be an exceptional opportunity for all true gourmets to experience a unique culinary journey and a fantastic Ottoman feast in the heart of Zagreb. The collaboration between renowned Chef Uğur Alparslan and his team with suport of our team and Chef Ana Grgić Tomić promises a gastronomic experience fit for a sultan,” said Ivica Max Krizmanić, General Manager of the Esplanade Hotel.
Celebrate 100 Years of the Esplanade Zagreb!
Join us for an evening that will enchance your senses and celebrate a century of excellence at the Esplanade. Embark on a culinary journey where two iconic legendary hotels unite, and two celebrated chefs come together to create an unparalleled experience.
Tuesday, 29th April 2025 at 7:30 PM
Esplanade Zagreb Hotel, Mihanovićeva 1
The evening begins with a welcome reception, followed by a meticulously curated five-course gala dinner. The price of dinner is €195 per person, which includes wine pairings with each course, as well as water, coffee, tea and petit fours. Limited seats are available for this exclusive event. Book your table now and be part of an extraordinary night where history, gastronomy and luxury join in perfect harmony.
For reservations and further details, please contact + 385 1 45 66 035 or [email protected]
A glimpse into timeless elegance of Pera Palace Hotel
For over 130 years, Pera Palace Hotel has stood out as a symbol of luxury and grace in Istanbul. Built in 1892 to welcome passengers of the Orient Express, it has hosted some of the world’s most distinguished figures, including Agatha Christie, Ernest Hemingway, King Edward VIII, Greta Garbo and Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, whose beloved Room 101 is now a museum. Pera Palace hotel was the first building in Turkiye to have hot water and electricity after the Ottoman palaces. Additionally, Pera Palace Hotel is home to Turkiye’s first and Europe’s second electric elevator. Renowned for its superb Afternoon Tea in Kubbeli Lounge, celebrated Orient Bar, Agatha Restaurant and historic Patisserie de Pera which is the only participant from Turkiye in the European Commission’s Historic Cafés Route, a special itinerary created by the European Commission to promote and preserve cultural heritage.
Pera Palace Hotel is a culinary destination in its own right, offering an unparalleled journey through Istanbul’s many layers of history and culture. A perfect blend of heritage and elegance, it’s a hotel that tells a story — one that now crosses borders to bring its magic to Zagreb.
About Esplanade Zagreb Hotel
Opened in 1925, the Esplanade Hotel Zagreb is one of the city’s most famous and elegant buildings. Originally built for passengers of the Orient Express, this iconic hotel combines stylish luxury, genuine hospitality and a tradition of capturing the zeitgeist to reflect the art deco heritage. The hotel was recently renovated adding contemporary touches while retaining some of the classics. The effect was described by a guest as “very old Hollywood glam”. The hotel provides 208 spacious and lavishly furnished rooms and suites, signature restaurants, a health club, bar/lounges, conference facilities and Scented Baths and much more.
PHOTOS (Esplanade Zagreb Hotel & Pera Palace Hotel Archive) & PRESS MATERIAL (Provided by Pera Palace Hotel):
Published: Zagreb, 3 April 2025
