Fooling Around opens on Zagreb’s most beautiful terrace with Orient Express touch

by croatiaweek
November 30, 2024
in Entertainment

Photos by: Ana Paić and Sandro Sklepić

This winter, the beautiful Oleander Terrace at the Esplanade Hotel in Zagreb has been transformed into a magical setting that captures the spirit of elegance and luxury associated with the legendary Orient Express.

Thanks to Fooling Around by Fuliranje, this advent event has brought back the splendour of the iconic train, rekindling its historical ties with the Esplanade Hotel, originally built to serve its refined passengers on the route from Paris to Istanbul.

A Venetian-Inspired Culinary Wonderland

Following last year’s Paris-themed edition, Fooling Around embraces the theme of Felicità (happiness), transporting visitors to Venice, a key stop on the Orient Express.

This year’s event features nine elegant train-inspired “carriages” hosting some of Croatia’s most celebrated chefs, restaurants, and cocktail masters.

Among the culinary stars are Michelin-rated Noel, Mason Burgers & Stuff, and Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery, alongside the Esplanade’s Ana Grgić Tomić and other renowned names such as LD Restaurant, San Rocco, and Institut za Kobasice by Mate Janković.

The offerings range from gourmet delights like Kobe beef dishes, butter burgers, and venison ragout to beloved Croatian classics like strukli and turkey with mlinci, all presented in a festive style.

Gourmet Cocktails and Indulgent Drinks

Cocktail lovers will enjoy creations at the Ginglebells station, featuring warm and cold versions of seasonal favourites like Mulled Gin, Warmstar Martini, and Pina Hotladu.

The Esplanade’s F&B manager Vjeceslav Madić adds to the mix with hot cocktails like Mojito and Oleander, perfectly capturing the event’s opulent Venetian charm. Wine enthusiasts can explore premium selections from Tikveš and Freixenet, while Rakijarnica offers an array of spirits, mulled wines, and craft beers.

A Feast for the Senses

The experience goes beyond food and drink. Visitors can enjoy live music curated by Ozren Kanceljak, with acoustic performances every Monday, themed parties, and even a masquerade ball. For those seeking cosy luxury, the heated dome powered by ZABA features Chesterfield armchairs and Instagram-worthy décor.

Visitors can also add personal messages of happiness and love on the Pandora Wall or indulge in WellBean specialty coffee and Ledo ice cream.

A Touch of Charity

This year’s event also includes a heartwarming charitable initiative. In partnership with Samsung and Pet Centar, the Galaxy Studio offers festive photo sessions for pets on selected December dates. Proceeds will support Šapica, a local animal welfare organisation, with participants receiving a printed photo and a special gift for their furry friends.