KultuRi 2026: the role of gastronomy in creating authentic tourism experiences
In the heart of Zagreb, where Parisian chic meets the city’s contemporary rhythm, the iconic Le Bistro at Esplanade Zagreb once again confirms its status this season as one of the city’s most desirable destinations for fine dining. Whether you choose the vibrant terrace overlooking the bustling city streets or the charming interior with its glass-enclosed winter garden, Le Bistro offers an experience that goes beyond the meal itself – it is a ritual of enjoying every moment. In the new menu, chef Ana Grgić Tomić remains true to her signature philosophy: seasonal ingredients, locally sourced produce, clear flavours and creative touches that make every dish distinctive. „The new menu was conceived as a light yet layered gastronomic story. I play with textures, combine familiar ingredients in new ways and highlight the natural flavours of each ingredient. It is important to me that every dish has its own balance, follows the principles of sustainability and gives guests pleasure from the first to the last bite“, Ana points out.
A start you will not want to miss
Begin with the cured salmon trout tartare – fresh, vibrant and full of character, with citrus aioli and lightly smoked cream that round off every bite. If you are in the mood for seafood flavours, the creamy crab with apple and young spinach brings an unexpectedly fine balance, while vegetarian options such as confit tomato and stuffed zucchini flower will win you over with their simple yet powerful combination of flavours. Do not miss the roasted asparagus with mini cottage cheese gnocchi, served with a rich brown butter and truffle foam – true comfort food with a twist. And for those who enjoy bolder combinations, there are homemade wild garlic noodles with smoked clams and lemongrass velouté – layered, aromatic and simply irresistible.
Soup with character and risotto with a twist
Warm up with a creamy asparagus soup served with goat’s cheese quiche – a dish that brings a wealth of fresh flavours and perfect comfort with a touch of French cuisine. And if you are in the mood for something different, the authentic Italian risotto with young nettle, coconut and mango gel, and caramelized mango with chili delivers an unexpected, exotic combination that pushes the boundaries of the classic – Ana’s signature on a plate.
Sea or land – you cannot go wrong
Choose from thoughtfully crafted seafood and meat dishes that offer a true balance of flavours and textures. Smoked amberjack with warm potato and dried bonito foam delivers deep, rounded aromas, while crispy mackerel with roasted pepper and smoked sweet potato offers rich, full flavour in every bite. If you prefer meat, guinea fowl piccata with pea and mint cream is delicious and full of character. For something more substantial, there is veal cutlet with porcini mushrooms, caramelized shallots and caper sauce – bold, layered and exactly as it should be.
A sweet ending to remember
Save room for dessert – trust us. The combination of tonka and vanilla with strawberries in elderflower and lime brings freshness with aromatic notes, while the peach and basil dessert with yoghurt namelaka plays on balance and light, clean aromas. For lovers of classics in a modern interpretation, there is carrot and orange sponge with ricotta cream, as well as chocolate crémeux with mint and sour cherry – intense, playful and made for a true wow effect at the end.
Classics you will always come back to
Alongside the new creations, there are also the dishes without which Le Bistro simply would not be Le Bistro – Esplanade’s baked štrukli, true comfort food that is hard to resist (also available in a gluten-free version), freshly hand-chopped steak tartare seasoned just right, crispy Caesar salad, and a true Wiener schnitzel fried in butter, served with creamy mashed potatoes and fresh salad, bringing a sense of nostalgia. Tried-and-tested favourites that never go out of style.ž
An experience that lingers
Everything is rounded off by a carefully selected wine list with an excellent choice of Croatian and international wines by the glass, along with relaxed, warm and professional service that gives guests every reason to come – and return.
If you are looking for a quick yet high-quality gourmet break, there is also the Menu du Jour – a three-course meal selected by the chef, served with a glass of wine and coffee or tea, priced at EUR 55.
If you are in the mood for something sweet, a selection of irresistible desserts by Esplanade’s head pastry chef Mirjana Špoljar awaits, perfectly paired with coffee or prosecco. And for a stylish start to the day, there is also a five-star breakfast, with an à la carte selection designed to brighten your morning. French toast, eggs Benedict, fresh fruit and crispy croissants – all you have to do is choose.
If you are visiting with children, there is no need to worry – Le Bistro also offers a delicious children’s menu that little ones will enjoy. Homemade, nutritious and tasty, and most importantly, no need to think about cooking.
Le Bistro is open every day from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m., and reservations are available by phone at 01 45 666 11 or by email at lebistro@esplanade.hr.
Whether you are stopping by for breakfast, coffee, a light lunch or dinner with a glass of wine, chef Ana Grgić Tomić’s new menu is yet another reason to pause, relax and enjoy a unique blend of flavours, ambiance and top-level service. More information is available at lebistro.hr.
