Opatija

Max Kandel affectionately calls his culinary creations ‘home cooking with a twist’. Although he himself comes from a Michelin-starred kitchen, nothing is further from his mind than fancy dishes. But that doesn't mean that Opatija serves run-of-the-mill food. Max and his team prioritise innovation. What does that mean? A new interpretation of familiar dishes. Sometimes using outdated dishes and ingredients, not just chasing after food trends. And, very importantly, using what is available. Regional, seasonal and: "If there's something great at the market, you have to go for it, even if it wasn't actually on the shopping list and you have to change the menu. Then you have to get creative, that's how you develop as a chef!"

Opatija not only offers a varied menu, but also a wide range of wines. Since 2020, you can enjoy the hand-picked wines either directly at the table with your meal or at the stylishly furnished in-house wine bar, which used to be the ‘unloved adjoining room’ - a highlight not only for wine connoisseurs. But beer lovers, don't worry, you'll also get your money's worth. In addition to regional hop classics, numerous craft beers complete the drinks menu.

Cooking has been the Chef de Cuisine's passion from an early age. ‘For me, cooking has always been more than just a means to an end to fill my belly!’ For the Nuremberg native, food is home and pure emotion, and that's exactly the feeling he wants his dishes to convey. ‘When I think back to my grandmother, I never saw a measuring jug in her kitchen - that shaped me!’ Max has found his creative outlet in the kitchen; there are no strict rules or fixed patterns here. ‘Breaking down structures and staying innovative - that's what this job is all about for me!’