Prague hosted an extraordinary event where diners indulged in the name of Slovenian sustainability, creativity, and authentic flavors. The creative face of this event was Ana Roš, the chef of the legendary restaurant Hiša Franko and a recipient of three Michelin stars. She showcased to the Czech audience why Slovenia is becoming a gastronomic destination that the whole world is talking about today. Tasting menus, local wines, and stories connected to the landscape and people demonstrated that culinary diplomacy has the power to connect cultures at the highest level.
Ana Roš and Hiša Franko: World-Class Slovenian Gastronomy in the Center of Prague
In cooperation with the Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia in Prague and the renowned three-star Michelin restaurant Hiša Franko, the Slovenian Tourist Office organized an exceptional gastronomic event at the restaurant Čestr.
The star of the evening was the world-renowned chef Ana Roš, who personally presented a tasting menu based on the authentic flavors of Slovenia, local ingredients, and seasonality. Among the guests were representatives of the Czech media, entrepreneurs, and tourism professionals. The entire evening was held in the spirit of sustainability, authenticity, and exceptional gastronomic experiences, complemented by a carefully selected assortment of Slovenian wines.
"In recent years, Slovenia has become a renowned gastronomic destination - a place where tradition and innovation meet on the plate, always guided by a deep commitment to sustainability," said the Director of the Slovenian Tourist Board, MSc. "This exclusive event has shown that through world cuisine, we can present the authenticity of our country, the diversity of its regions, and the passion of local producers in a most interesting way."
A Fusion of Flavors, Cultures, and Stories
The Ambassador of the Republic of Slovenia in Prague, Aleš Balut, appreciated the importance of the event. "I am convinced that this spectacular culinary evening, which is a great example of Slovenian economic diplomacy, will strengthen Slovenia's position on the Czech tourist map and help us attract more Czech guests."
Chef Ana Roš shared not only her culinary skills but also her personal story during the evening. "It's a great honor for me to come to Prague, and it means a lot to me to be able to share our team's philosophy and vision with the Czech audience. You have amazing Czech winemakers here whose approach beautifully matches what we present in Prague, with Slovenian producers."
Local and Sustainable - From Nature to Plate
In Slovenia, sustainability is not just a buzzword - it's an ingrained part of the culture. The farm-to-table system works naturally here, whether in homes or upscale restaurants. Seasonal, local, and organic ingredients are commonplace. Many businesses are involved in Slovenia's Green Tourism Scheme and boast the Slovenia Green label, which guarantees their commitment to the environment and local communities. Slovenia is also one of the pioneers of the Michelin Green Stars, confirming its leadership in sustainable gastronomy.
Renowned chefs such as Ana Roš have become ambassadors of this philosophy. "In my opinion, cuisine is a symbiosis of three elements—the place, the season, and the personality of the chef," says Roš.
The Strong Interest of Czechs in Slovenia Continues to Grow
The Czech Republic is one of the key markets for Slovenian tourism. Czech tourists are seeking not only active holidays and wellness but increasingly also world-class gastronomic experiences.
According to statistics, almost 240,000 Czech tourists visited Slovenia in 2024, spending over 684,000 overnight stays there - a 26% increase in arrivals and a 33% increase in overnight stays compared to 2019.
Through targeted events like the one in Prague, Slovenia is striving to reach guests with higher spending power and introduce them to the country through gastronomy.
Slovenia: Small Country, Big Tastes
Slovenia is unique in that it combines the Alps, the Mediterranean, the Karst, and the Pannonian Plain. This natural and cultural diversity naturally translates into gastronomy. Whether you are looking for an active holiday, relaxation in a thermal spa, sightseeing, or an authentic gourmet experience, Slovenia offers it all in one place, 365 days a year.
Source: Taste Slovenia
