Signature gelato cocktails become the new autumn must-try at Esplanade 1925 Lounge & Cocktail Bar
This November, Esplanade’s master mixologist Vjenceslav Madić – Master Kishoni – blends the best of both worlds: artisanal Italian-style gelato and the art of mixology, crafting sensational flavour combinations that defy the season and redefine indulgence.
From signature cocktails that set new standards, premium spirits and comfort-food favourites including juicy burgers, club sandwiches, Caesar salad and the iconic Esplanade štrukli, to a stylish ambience, relaxing music and bartenders who intuitively know what you need — Esplanade 1925 Lounge & Cocktail Bar is the place to be this November for daytime socializing, after-work gatherings and chic evening moments.
In a place where Art Deco heritage meets cosmopolitan elegance, bar manager and Esplanade’s acclaimed mixologist Vjenceslav Madić – Master Kishoni – once again pushes the boundaries of the bar scene. With extensive international experience and a refined instinct for innovation, Vjenceslav has long been recognized for his sophisticated approach, impeccable attention to detail and elegant cocktail aesthetics reminiscent of a miniature theatre — where every glass tells a story and every sip evokes emotion. From the first aroma to the last sip, each cocktail is envisioned as a personal ritual, elevated by warm hospitality, theatrical presentation and moments designed to be shared and remembered.
Following best-selling famous cocktails that marked a new chapter in the bar’s identity, along with a signature collection inspired by each decade of the hotel’s history and groundbreaking zero-alcohol and LABV concepts that won the hearts of guests and locals alike, Kishoni now introduces a bold sensation for November — iced gelato cocktails that push the boundaries of creativity and pleasure. In true visionary spirit, this unique collection unites handcrafted Italian-style gelato with premium liqueurs, spirits and aromas, creating irresistible flavour and texture combinations that awaken all the senses. “Forget seasonal rules — the time for gelato is now. Whether you crave refreshment, an autumn dose of indulgence or a winter sweet adventure,” says Vjenceslav Madić – Master Kishoni, “each gelato cocktail is conceived as a small work of art — elegant, daring and perfectly balanced.” The collection features classics and contemporary inspirations, from Affogato with artisanal bourbon-vanilla gelato and intense espresso aromas, pistachio paired with Bajadera liqueur, rich chocolate combined with Amarena cherry liqueur, intriguing salty caramel enhanced with mezcal, to coffee-amaretto gelato paired with bourbon whiskey. The result is a sensory experience that invites limitless exploration. “I’m always seeking to create something unexpected and elevate the cocktail experience. As a lover of true Italian gelato and premium liqueurs, I believe this will be a delightful surprise for true hedonists,” says Vjenceslav and adds, “Hyggis Gelato is masterfully handcrafted in Zagreb by the Peroš family using only the finest natural ingredients, without artificial additives. Pistachios and lemons are from Sicily, hazelnuts from Piedmont, vanilla from Madagascar — and combined with select liqueurs they guarantee a year-round guilty-pleasure experience.”
The joy of sharing
Alongside the new gelato cocktail selection, premium spirits and signature drinks, November brings another reason to visit Esplanade 1925 Bar — a specially designed Sharing Menu for groups of four, created by Chef Ana Grgić Tomić. This gourmet experience, perfect for enjoying with cocktails, craft beer or wine, celebrates social dining in a relaxed yet refined way. It includes mini versions of Esplanade’s favourites such as chicken and pancetta club sandwich with fries and homemade ketchup, hand-chopped beef tartare, mini Caesar salad with chicken, sesame-crusted tuna tataki and croquettes with dried tomato and smoked shrimp. “Sharing food creates connection and turns a meal into an experience,” says Chef Ana Grgić Tomić, whose dishes perfectly complement the bar’s laid-back concept. The Sharing Menu for four is priced at €89, with a preparation time of approximately 60 minutes — ideal for enjoying the first drinks, conversation and timeless atmosphere.
Guests can also indulge in the legendary Esplanade štrukli — also available in gluten-free form — as well as gourmet bites including a juicy beef burger with creamy mustard sauce and onion marmalade, focaccia with Drniš prosciutto and Pag island cheese, croissant with smoked salmon, pea and mint cream soup, clear beef consommé and porcini tart with rocket. To finish, the hotel’s pastry team presents signature sweet delights.
A chic afternoon ritual
Guests seeking a moment of elegance and calm in the heart of the city can enjoy Esplanade’s limited-edition Afternoon Tea. Inspired by the hotel’s 100th anniversary and flavours along the legendary Orient Express route, this experience takes guests back to the golden age of travel. Savoury and sweet delights evoke iconic destinations — from Paris with brioche filled with foie gras and pear marmalade, Venice with burrata, sun-dried tomatoes, sardines and pine nuts, Zagreb with irresistible mini Esplanade štrukli, to Istanbul with za’atar, hummus and mint. Sweet finishes transport guests to Italy and France with strawberry-prosecco tiramisu, delicate macarons, choux filled with rum and chocolate, and oriental treats with kadaif, pistachios and rose water. The Afternoon Tea is served daily from 12:30 to 18:30 at Esplanade 1925 Lounge & Cocktail Bar. The price of €45 includes an elegant tiered stand filled with sweet and savoury bites for two, one mini baked štrukli per person and Ronnefeldt tea of choice served in a teapot with lemon and honey.
Surrender to the refined Art Deco atmosphere and music that encourages conversation and laughter. Esplanade 1925 Lounge & Cocktail Bar delights with a relaxed, chic vibe — ideal for after-work drinks, Saturday afternoons, late-night outings with friends or simply long conversations. A must-visit destination for lovers of exceptional cocktails, delicious bites, great ambiance and a warm, talented bar team. From gelato cocktails crafted by Master Kishoni to the Sharing Menu and Orient Express Afternoon Tea — each visit promises an unforgettable moment. Raise your spirits through the art of mixology this season. Autumn gatherings begin at the city’s most elegant Art Deco address.
Bar opening hours: daily 8:30 – 2:00
Food service: 12:00 – 00:30, Orient Express Afternoon Tea: 12:30 – 18:30
Reservations: +385 (0)1 4566 633 • [email protected] • esplanade1925.hr
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About Vjenceslav Madić
Vjenceslav Madić, widely known as Master Kishoni, has been leading the Esplanade 1925 Lounge & Cocktail Bar since 2022 as F&B Service & Cost Control Manager. He created a completely new drinks concept for the bar, introducing original signature cocktails that quickly won over guests and set a new standard in the hotel’s beverage culture. With over 30 years of experience in world-renowned bars in Dubai, Monte-Carlo, Cancún and Las Vegas — where he served as personal bartender to Celine Dion — he brings unmatched passion, knowledge and creativity. Holding a degree in hotel management, American Bartender School certification and extensive continuous training, his expertise is internationally recognized. In 2015 he received the global title of Havana Club Brand Ambassador of the Year.
He also spent five years as a consultant at the global spirits company Pernod Ricard, where as Professional Program Manager he trained sales teams on the full spirits portfolio and acted as brand ambassador and brand manager for several premium brands. At Esplanade, Vjenceslav designs and prepares cocktails for exclusive events, celebrations, promotions, gala dinners, weddings and themed concepts, including the Esplanade Advent wooden house at the famous Fooling Around Christmas market on Oleander Terrace.
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- IMAGES: Esplanade 1925 Bar – Jesen
Published: Zagreb, 4 November 2025
