At Hotel Plesnik in the enchanting Logar Valley, a culinary transformation is underway under the expert guidance of master chef Janez Bratovž, a pioneer of modern Slovenian cuisine. The hotel’s updated culinary offer is designed to resonate with guests, emphasizing tradition, sustainability and a deep connection to the local environment, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps.
The kitchen is now led by the talented young chef Tom Čopar, whose experience at Raduha House, JB Restaurant, Villa Herberstein and La Raza in Spain has shaped his distinctive culinary style. His focus on local, fresh ingredients is complemented by a commitment to minimizing food waste and reviving traditional home dishes with a contemporary flair.
Tradition is at the heart of Hotel Plesnik’s identity.The Plesnik family has called the Logar Valley home since 1426 and Franc Plesnik established the first hotel in 1932, which was tragically burnt down during the war. Under the stewardship of his daughter, Martina Plesnik, the hotel was reborn in 1995 and has since become a beloved symbol of one of Slovenia’s most picturesque alpine glacier valleys.
Celebrating Culinary Heritage
With over 90 years of culinary tradition, Hotel Plesnik is deeply rooted in its heritage. Grandmother Plesnik’s cherished recipe book from 1935 serves as a testament to the hotel’s longstanding commitment to exceptional cuisine. In a heartfelt tribute to the Plesnik family’s legacy, these traditional recipes have been elegantly reimagined by Bratovž and Čopar, featuring prominently on the new menu. One standout revival is the renowned beef tartare, a house specialty that has delighted guests since the 1930s.
A Menu Steeped in Local Flavour
The new culinary story at Hotel Plesnik blends traditional flavours with modern techniques, presenting a menu that not only honours the past but also embraces sustainability. Diners can explore a variety of traditional dishes from the Upper Savinja Valley, including homemade beef salami, local cheeses from the autochthonous Jezersko-Solčava sheep, and savoury žlinkrofi.
Commitment to Sustainability
Hotel Plesnik is dedicated to sustainability, aligning its culinary practices with the pristine environment of Logar Valley. The hotel recognizes that modern travellers increasingly seek out sustainable dining options that prioritise local and seasonal ingredients with traceable origins, which is why most of the menu items are sourced from nearby farms and producers.
A Holistic Retreat in Nature
As Martina Plesnik, the hotel’s owner, emphasizes: “Only what is truly sustainable is really prestigious,”guests can look forward to a holistic retreat that offers numerous relaxation opportunities, including anti-stress and Ayurvedic programmes, yoga, meditation and an unforgettable culinary journey inspired by local traditions and sustainable practices.
