Ana Grgić Tomić, chef of the year Gault & Millau Croatia 2022

Ever since Ana Grgić Tomić became the head of Esplanade’s kitchen ten years ago, as the first woman in that position, fine dining has been continuously improving in this legendary Zagreb hotel. Creating menus for both its restaurants - Zinfandel’s and Le Bistro - Cheffe Ana continues the tradition of top gastronomy, but in a unique way, unmistakably following world trends, new techniques and her own instinct for delicious and beautiful. And her closest associates are, as she says, a good knife and a stick mixer. Guests would add – her incredible charm and a magical smile, with which she spices up each of her sophisticated culinary creations.

Chefs of the Year - Stefan Heilemann & Ana Grgić Tomić

Neither the chef nor Hotel Esplanade slowed down in the pandemic: they worked with the same intensity, and Ana continued to design new menus like usual. Not only the seasonal ones, but also those for some special occasion. Ana brings in each plate her accentuated sensibility for careful pairing of flavours, and although her approach to cooking is typically French, the menu combines Croatian classics, Mediterranean and continental dishes.

Chefs Ana Grgić Tomić & Stefan Heilleman and Esplanade team

Ana is one of the pioneers of the zero food waste strategy in our country, so she makes full use of fresh food that comes from “her” local suppliers, which is her contribution to reducing the harmful effect on the environment. Her menus show all the splendour of her talent, but also the culinary nerve that constantly forces her into new challenges and pushing her own boundaries. This is the reason why they have been awarded certificates of excellence and the warm approval of the most demanding gourmets, and she herself has received numerous accolades.

Hotel Esplanade celebrates - Sanda Sokol, Chef Ana Grgić Tomić and director Ivica Krizmanić

She earned the title of master of the kitchen, at the initiative of the WWF she became the ambassador of the Fish Forward project for Croatia, and Hotel Esplanade received the first Michelin Green Star in Croatia. Four years ago, she was awarded the Trophy Great chef of tomorrow by Gault&Millau Croatia. That tomorrow has arrived.

Photo: Matej Dokić and Goran Jakuš for GM Croatia