For travel inspiration: Croatia destination guide<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n \u201cThe reason why this caliber of hotel was first built in the city was due to the Orient Express, which was passing through Zagreb,\u201d Ivica explains. \u201cIn the 1920s, it was necessary to have an exceptional five-star hotel to accommodate the train\u2019s high-society passengers. The Esplanade hotel was built in two years, and it’s been something special from the first day it opened in 1925.\u201d<\/p>\n Designed in the Art Deco style by architect Dionis Sunko the Hotel Esplanade Zagreb quickly became a symbol of luxury and elegance in the city. A full refurbishment in 2004 elevated the interiors and amenities to new heights. \u201cWe had a great architect and interior designer who ensured that the Esplanade spirit stayed intact,\u201d says Ivica. \u201cThe design really blended together the history with the modern design from today\u2019s era.\u201d<\/p>\n Stay at the Esplanade Hotel Zagreb on Croatia & The Dalmatian Coast<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n \u201cMy father actually worked here before me, for 30 years. He’s the reason why I am here,\u201d Ivica tells us. \u201cIn 1992, as a student, he asked me to help out. It was just for a month as a doorman, because they needed some extra staff, and that is where it all began. I was immediately in love with the hotel and have been here ever since.<\/p>\n \u201cFor me, the secret to running such an exceptional hotel is love and passion. This is something that it’s necessary to have for the Esplanade because the hotel deserves people who are dedicated to the Esplanade spirit. For all of us here, this is not just a hotel, this is more of an institution. So, for us to work here is something much bigger.<\/p>\n \u201cThe Esplanade is a synonym for luxury and good service. People widely connect the hotel with something special. Numerous times I have been in other establishments and have overheard people say (maybe in response to a complaint) \u2018you know this is not the Esplanade, Sir.\u2019 It sets the standard.\u201d<\/p>\n You may also like to read: <\/em>Travel Concierge Sharon, on the experience that awaits when you visit Croatia<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n With its 208 rooms and suites, offering stunning views of the city, keeping everything running perfectly at the hotel Esplanade Zagreb is no small task. When we ask how many staff Ivica is responsible for, he tells us that \u201cI have some 170 colleagues depending on the time of year, but we try to do this business with a homely, family feeling. So, I consider it to be that I work for them.<\/p>\n \u201cThe rooms are designed in a sophisticated Art Deco style, with all the modern touches needed for today’s travelers. They are all very welcoming and cozy, to make you feel at home. We have marble bathrooms with heated floors, the perfect place to relax and unwind.\u201d<\/p>\n Sumptuous beds, stunning city views and first-class room service complete the picture. Guests can also benefit from the hotel\u2019s exclusive Health Club, offering a range of range of therapies to de-stress, replenish and revitalize.<\/p>\n You may also enjoy: <\/em>9 Reasons to visit Croatia & the Dalmatian Coast<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n \u201cI spend lot of time testing the food in the restaurants,\u201d Ivica tells us, an important yet not undesirable part of his role as General Manager. From \u2018high society-inspired dining to modern Mediterranean chic\u2019 the Esplanade\u2019s award-winning restaurants are worth a booking in their own right, with Executive Chef Ana Grgi\u0107 Tomi\u0107 at the helm.<\/p>\n Considered one of Zagreb\u2019s finest, Zinfandel\u2019s Restaurant<\/a> combines the best local ingredients with a broad Mediterranean inspiration. \u201cHere you can see a more Mediterranean style with modern food,\u201d says Ivica, \u201cwith local specialties like sea bass baked in sea salt, Istrian truffles or steak tartar.\u201d<\/p>\n Or for \u2018seductive French cuisine\u2019 Le Bistro celebrates a wide range of seasonal local produce, and also one particularly famous dish. \u201cWe have one signature dish \u2013 actually it’s a local specialty but this recipe is exclusive to the hotel \u2013 the legendary Esplanade \u0160trukli,\u201d says Ivica. \u201cIt’s a baked pastry, made from thin sheets of dough, filled with fresh cottage cheese with cream. It’s sounds simple, but it’s very tasty and people really love it.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWe change the menu in both restaurants three or four times a year, reflecting the seasons. You\u2019ll see a mix of international cuisine, with influences from our neighbors. We\u2019re surrounded by Italy and Austria, and obviously close to Bosnia and Herzegovina, which has a different culinary profile.\u201d<\/p>\n You may be interested to read: <\/em>Where to Find the Most Rare & Expensive Food in the World<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n The ultimate iteration of 1920\u2019s decadence, the Oleander Terrace at the Esplanade offers stunning views across the city, and provides the perfect setting for some enjoyable people watching. A preferred spot for elegant breakfasts, high society lunching, and music and jazz evenings with a stylish Champagne bar. \u201cTo stay in the Esplanade Hotel and have a breakfast in the morning on the Oleander Terrace is considered something special,\u201d says Ivica.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/strong>\u201cAnd in the evening, to relax, the place to be is definitely the Esplanade 1925 Lounge & Cocktail Bar for the signature cocktails.\u201d Run by some of the best Croatia\u2019s mixologists the bar offers an enticing range of cocktails dating back to the days of the 1920\u2019s Flapper.<\/p>\n You may also like: <\/em>Pearls of the Adriatic: Step Aboard Europe\u2019s Most Glamorous Cruise<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n When staying at the Esplanade, each guest is treated as a VIP by attentive and professional staff. \u201cTo offer such exceptional service, we focus on finding the right people,\u201d explains Ivica. \u201cWe are not necessarily focusing on hospitality experience as we wish to mold them in the Esplanade way – we look for someone with passion.<\/p>\n \u201cNot only love and passion for guests and the hospitality industry, but people who have a connection with the hotel, are proud to work here and willing to do their part to justify our enduring reputation. This takes a special type of person.<\/p>\n \u201cWe also empower people to be brave enough to make the special service, to not be afraid to be spontaneous and try something new to satisfy our guests when required.\u201d<\/p>\n You may also like to read: <\/em>Connect With the Natural World Through These Exclusive Experiences<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n While no two days are the same when working in a hotel, some stand out as special for their own reasons. \u201cWe often host state leaders, presidents and royal family members,\u201d says Ivica. \u201cThey\u2019re always greeted by myself.<\/p>\n \u201cOne day I was waiting, with the Royal assistant, for a Queen and Prince in the lobby. They were attending a lunch at the Presidential Office and, as per protocol, timing was of the utmost importance. \u00a0As the Queen and the Prince stepped out of the elevator, we realized that the Prince and the Royal assistant were wearing the same tie. Definitely against protocol!<\/p>\n \u201cThere was no time for the Prince to return to the room and change. So, realizing what had happened and thinking quick I just took my tie and gave it to the to the royal assistant. I didn\u2019t think much more of it, but when they came back to the hotel they were talking about the lunch and were saying how I saved the protocol. But it\u2019s all in a day\u2019s work at a hotel such as this.\u201d<\/p>\n You may also be interested in: <\/em>After Hours: Travel Like a VIP With These Exclusive Experiences<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n It is said that of Zagreb that \u2018life is lived on the streets of the city itself, with public art, street food, and majestic green parks delighting locals and tourists alike in all four seasons.\u2019 As well as being an enchanting Croatian walled city, one of the fabulous things about the capital city is that the region is lush with nature parks.<\/p>\n The Esplanade is perfectly placed to explore the city \u2013 just one more reason to select this iconic establishment when considering where to stay in Zagreb. Ivica tells us \u201cit is an important part of Zagreb\u2019s upper town.\u201d One of Zagreb’s main attractions, the historic old town, Upper Town (Gornji Grad) is a myriad of cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and iconic landmarks like St. Mark’s Church. \u201cHere you can feel really a special history. It’s so preserved that it’s still feels like 100 years ago.\u201d Yet the city is credited as being young and playful at heart.<\/p>\n \u201cZagreb is a big and small city,\u201d he continues. \u201cAlmost everything is within walking distance. So, it is very relaxing for the people to explore. There are a lot of small museums and interesting places, but nothing particular that you have to visit, that is what is so nice about it. It’s very romantic everywhere and there are a lot of coffee shops where people sit outside and watch the movie of life unfold around you.\u201d<\/p>\nOrient Express origins<\/h4>\n
![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.luxurygold.com\/lg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Esplanade-Zagreb-Hotel-lobby-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/p>\nIt’s all about love and passion<\/h4>\n
![\"Hotel](\"https:\/\/www.luxurygold.com\/lg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/GOJ_7547-683x1024.jpg\")
<\/p>\nExquisite rooms<\/h4>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.luxurygold.com\/lg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Esplanade-Zagreb-Hotel-Esplanade-Suite-Bedroom-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/p>\nExceptional dining<\/h4>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.luxurygold.com\/lg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Esplanade-Zagreb-hotel-lifestyle-22-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/p>\nA treat for guests, from sunrise to sunset<\/h4>\n
![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.luxurygold.com\/lg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Esplanade-Zagreb-Hotel-Oleander-terrace-2-683x1024.jpg\")
<\/p>\nThe secret to exceptional service lies in the people<\/h4>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.luxurygold.com\/lg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Esplanade-Zagreb-hotel-lifestyle-14-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/p>\nRoyal guests and dignitaries<\/h4>\n
The Esplanade Hotel Zagreb is part of the city<\/h4>\n
![\"Zagreb](\"https:\/\/www.luxurygold.com\/lg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Large-Zagreb-Church-1314913792-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/p>\n