Cocktail refreshments at Joe’s Bar

How can you find the best way to refresh yourself during summer in Zagreb? Along with beautiful parks in the very centre of the city such as Zrinjevac, Ribnjak and Botanical Garden where you can truly enjoy the natural beauties, hotel ARCOTEL Allegra has prepared for the hot summer days an offer of various refreshing lemonades and freshly squeezed juices as well as cocktails made by the best cocktail masters.

Roman Rabik – this year’s winner at the contest for the best barman in Croatia and Marija Cindrić – last year’s winner in making cocktails who also demonstrated her skills in preparing cocktails at the end competition at Eiffel’s Tower in Paris, will prepare your favourite refreshing cocktail only for you. The Watermelon Mimosa, Cuba Libra, BBG Bloody Mary with crunchy bacon, Banana Watermelon Daiyuiri, Bellini, Tom Collins, Mojito a la Cuba, BBQ Colada are only some of the finer cocktails that will not leave you indifferent. Our skilled cocktail masters reveal that each of these cocktails has its own story and special method of preparation.

Visit us at Joe’s Bar, refresh yourself with your favourite cocktail and greet our winners who will surely surprise you with their creations. The fact that we have the best cocktail masters is also proven by numerous newspaper articles such as the daily paper “24 sata”. Our Joe’s Bar is open every day from 07:00 to 01:00h. We are looking forward to your visit!

Do not miss the summer in Zagreb and hotel ARCOTEL

With its seductive charm, numerous bars and restaurants, Zagreb as one of the major shopping destinations and cultural sites offers more than expected. Are you a lover of cultural events or you cannot resist the shopping tours in Zagreb? Zagreb offers not only numerous cultural attractions, but also urban and modern architecture that creates the perfect balance for a perfect visit to this versatile and interesting city.

To avoid the summer heat, Zagreb offers many parks such as Maksimir, the main Zagreb park, with its 316 hectares of land. Within the park you can visit the zoo which is the oldest Croatian zoo. The first design hotel in Zagreb – ARCOTEL Allegra strongly recommends that you visit this natural oasis.

Only one weekend is enough to get to know the Croatia’s capital. The symbol of West European culture and the seductive charm of the Mediterranean will be good enough reason to pack your bags and set off to visit Croatia’s capital.

We recommend these attractions worth visiting during your stay in Zagreb:

-          Botanical Garden

-          numerous museums in old town core

-          old town core with richly decorated facades and palaces

-          numerous bars, restaurants and designer shops in the city centre

A culinary journey through the long and hot summer

Summer is already here, and with it our new culinary offer, which will be at your disposal until the end of August. Since something light, refreshing and nice is necessary with the arrival of the warm summer months, our offer is designed to keep your mind and body vital and healthy. It does not matter whether you are on your way to the Adriatic or returning to your place of residence, and you want to make a break in Zagreb or you have plans to visit the Croatian capital, our great summer offer will make your stay in Zagreb even more beautiful and interesting.

Our chef Ivan Simončić and his team created the following just for you:

"Summer light cuisine" – various light salads (from EUR 4,60) & selected Croatian wines (from EUR 2,70)

"Pasta Italiana" – delicious pasta meals at exceptional prices from EUR 6,20

"Fresh & healthy collection" – freshly squeezed juices & refreshing homemade lemonades from EUR 2,60

In addition to this offer, our menu also features other fine Croatian and Austrian specialties, as well as the best cocktails in Croatia prepared by officially the most creative cocktail master of Croatia, our very own Roman Rabik!

We will reveal some of the most important summer events in the city so you can have lasting memories of Zagreb. What is happening in the Croatian capital during the summer months:

Zagreb Time Machine
26. 4. - 5. 10. 2014.

Summer at Štros - STROSSMARTRE 2014
29. 5. - 15. 9. 2014.

Top Gear Live
3. 7. 2014.

International Fireworks Festival
4. 7. - 6. 7. 2014

48^th International Folklore Festival 
16. - 20. 7. 2014.

Since the ARCOTEL Allegra hotel is just a few minutes’ walk from the main square and the picturesque old town centre, it presents the ideal starting point to visit the aforementioned events, explore the cultural sights of the city and shopping tours. Enjoy our culinary journey and discover the beauties of the Croatian capital. The ARCOTEL Allegra team invites you and looks forward to your visit!

ARCOTEL Allegra Zagreb hotel offers the best cocktails in the world!

It is now official: Roman Rabik is one of the best cocktail masters in the world. At the "10^th Havana Club Cocktail Grand Prix 2014" competition held in Cuba, Roman competed with 48 participants from around the world with his cocktail called "Magnifico“.

After the previously held national competition, the world competition "10^th Havana Club Cocktail Grand Prix 2014" was held last week, where the best cocktail masters in the world competed. As its name suggests, the competition was held in the Caribbean Islands, which is a "birthplace" of rum, and proved to be the perfect host. Before they started the competition, 48 participants from around the world had the opportunity to learn many interesting things about Cuba and its national drink, and for this reason the participants visited squares, markets, bars, producers of rum and tobacco, and participated in various seminars. The aim was to familiarize all participants with the Cuban culture, so that they could get the best inspiration for the creation of a "new classic Cuban cocktail".

The decisive event was held on Thursday, May 5^th 2014: Roman Rabik mixed his cocktail in front of numerous people and in front of the high-ranking expert jury, calling it "Magnifico". It is prepared from local Cuban food purchased at markets of Havana, and mixed with chili, salted banana, white chocolate and rum, results in the finest cocktail of specific taste. "An incredible experience!" Rabik says enthusiastically, "A week in Cuba was very intense. I got home with a lot of beautiful impressions and ideas. I am looking forward to surprising the guests of ARCOTEL Allegra hotel with some new creations!"

The success of Roman Rabik makes the hotel manager Ljiljana Mikic very happy: "We always knew that we have an especially talented and creative member of our team in our Joe's bar, and we are extremely proud that he is the best in Croatia!"

And in order to convince yourself in the skills of our very own Roman Rabik, come to the ARCOTEL Allegra Zagreb hotel and enjoy the most delicious cocktails prepared by the hands of a true cocktail master!

Summer in Zagreb

Croatian metropolis offers a handful of various interesting events during the summer, which you should not miss. Events which ARCOTEL Allegra Zagreb should single out are:

- Zagreb Time Machine held from April 26^th to October 5^th, during which you can experience Gornji grad in the past, enjoy the dance evenings and promos at Zrinjevac and Maksimir, Tkalčijana - the street of music and entertainment, folk scene and various surprises.

- the traditional Summer on Stross held from May 23^rd to September 15^th, which calls for a summer break, and offers interesting events such as the participation of a number of singers and musicians, an art colony, a small puppet theatre, welcoming 1/2 of the year, and an exhibition of mongrel dogs.

- INmusic festival from June 23^rd – 25^th, during which Zagreb becomes the main centre of music spectacle for all lovers of modern music.

- "Fantastic Zagreb Film Festival" for all lovers of film, held from June 27^th to July 05^th.

In addition to the above events, the program includes a number of other events, such as the International Festival of Fireworks, 48^th International Folklore Festival, Croatian World Games and many others. Check our calendar of events and find out more!

A brief overview of summer events in Zagreb:

Zagreb Time Machine 26. 4. 2014. - 5. 10. 2014.

Summer on Stross - STROSSMARTRE 2014    23. 5. 2014. - 15. 9. 2014.

INmusic festival 2014.  23. 6. 2014. - 25. 6. 2014.

Fantastic Zagreb Film Festival   27. 6. 2014. - 5. 7. 2014.

International Festival of Fireworks   4. 7. 2014. - 6. 7. 2014.

48^th International Folklore Festival 16. 7. 2014. - 20. 7. 2014.

Croatian World Games - Zagreb 2014   21. 7. 2014. - 26. 7. 2014. 

ARCOTEL Hotels: 25 years – 25 stories

ARCOTEL Hotels celebrate the 25^th anniversary! The chain has undergone many changes in last couple of years. From the single property in Vienna, the corporation grew to the biggest private Austrian hospitality company. During that period, most interesting and entertaining stories were made. We have gathered them together in order to tell you more about our grand jubilee. Read our blog or visit the facebook fan page and find out fascinating insider info about ARCOTEL chain.

ARCOTEL Allegra supports the sport

First design hotel in Zagreb is has been supporting the sport for several years. We traditionally sponsor the international wheelchair tournament, and we also supported the Miss Sport Croatia pageant. 

"International Wheelchair Tennis Tour" is an international competition, recognized by ARCOTEL Allegra as a superb project for promotion of the sport spirit. Disabled tennis players from all over Europe compete in this remarkable tournament. They all stay in ARCOTEL Allegra, the barrier-free hotel - and therefore perfectly suitable for disabled guests. It is one of many proves that ARCOTEL Allegra welcomes all guests, regardless their disabilities. Furthermore, ARCOTEL Allegra strives to emphasise the problems that disabled persons encounter in everyday life. 

Besides tennis tournament, ARCOTEL Allegra was in 2010. the host of prestigious pageant “Miss Sport Croatia”. One years after, ARCOTEL Allegra had the pleasure to co-organise this beauty competition. The idea originally came from Tamara Roglić – Croatian supermodel and Damir Mrvev who created the concept for the pageant. The main task that the jury has is to select the perfect candidate to represent the Croatian sport - based on her versatility, personality and sport achievements. The main motivation for this project was the mutual goal to promote the sport and healthy way of life!

What are the culinary delights for in May?

In May, the month of joy and happiness, one can enjoy the nature and beautiful sunny days. First seasonal fruits will have already grown: succulent asparagus, juicy strawberries are a real treat for everybody. 

The Radicchio restaurant has, as always, prepared the special menu for May. Until 10^th of May you can find a wide selection of asparagus dishes, for example black pasta with asparagus and cherry tomatoes, asparagus and cherry tomato risotto with grana padano cheese, asparagus cream soup with prosciutto ham, asparagus with eggs and smoked ham with sour cream and red pepper, turkey fillet with asparagus, potatoes and hollandaise sauce.  Sounds great, right?

What about strawberries! Their sweet taste will get you into spring mood. Our own patisserie prepares them with tasty Belgian chocolate what enriches their special taste. It’s a real treat available at the Joe’s bar with the cup of coffee or tea. Besides that, you can order the wide selection of home-made strawberry cakes.

For barbecue lovers, the new grill season in Radicchio restaurant is open. Marinated stakes and other meat with various side dishes and sauces are available daily. Enjoy the May and visit the hotel ARCOTEL Allegra – your passionate hosts!

Easter in Zagreb

Many tourists and visitors consider Zagreb the most beautiful in spring. This is not surprising, since the Croatian capital has numerous parks and green patches in the very city center. There are various kinds of flowers, bushes and trees. We recommend a visit to the botanical garden, just a few minute walk from the hotel ARCOTEL Allegra. Around 10,000 plant species grow in the garden, of which 1,800 exotic species from around the world. The beauty of the garden in the springtime is breathtaking.

If you are wondering where to spend nice moments during Easter, Zagreb is an ideal option. It is not far way from the European capitals and it offers a wide range of attractions and events. If you are coming with family, friends or a loved one, we are sure you will enjoy Zagreb especially at Easter. Experience the Croatian Easter tradition firsthand and learn the traditional way of painting and decorating Easter eggs. Take a stroll through the old town with Easter stands and discover the diversity of Croatian customs. You will take home many beautiful memories of Zagreb.

We have therefore prepared two special packages: With Family Special offer* you can accommodate two children (under 16 years) free of charge in their parents’ apartment. Also try out our Easter offer* with Easter breakfast and culinary greeting from the kitchen. Enjoy the traditional Croatian Easter cuisine in our restaurant Radicchio!

Happy Easter! We are looking forward to your inquiry and visit!

T +385 4696-000
F +385 4696-096
E allegra@arcotelhotels.com

See you on Cuba

On Thursday, March 13^th 2014., “Roko Academy" club organized a national competition "10^th Havana Club Cocktail Grand Prix 2014". Our prize winning barman Roman Rabik also participated in this exciting competition. The competition was tough; he competed against ten best cocktail barmen from all Croatia. They used all their creativity to make special cocktails and present them in their own unique way. Around midnight, when the atmosphere was at the peak, there was still no way of telling who will be the grand winner. All contestants were fully prepared; they gave their best to present their cocktails in the most spectacular way.

Our cocktail barman Roman Rabik enjoys entreating the guests at Joe's bar. He was the sixth competitor, and thrilled the audiences with his skills.  After the midnight, the best cocktail barmen, i.e. the grand winner was announced. We were happy that Roman Rabik won the first prize with a rum-based cocktail called "Modern Daiquiri " and " Che Che". He also won the trip to Cuba, where he will compete at the beginning of the June against the world best cocktail barmen.

Once again we are very proud that our very own Roman Rabik won this prize. We also hope that we will hear the great news from Cuba after the World Championships. You are always invited to meet Roman in person in the Joe’s bar in the hotel ARCOTEL Allegra. Let him surprise you with an unique cocktail that he will prepare just for you, according to your preferences.  You will love it, guaranteed!

Spring a-la-carte menu at the Restaurant Radicchio

Spring is at the door and brings us to our new seasonal menu. Restaurant week is one of the most attractive times to eat out, it is organised from 7^th to 16^th March in many restaurants throughout Zagreb. Top notch dishes made by our head chef Ivan Simončić will exceed all your expectations. A real treat (starter, main course, dessert) is available for only EUR 13,50 per person! Like always, we are happy to welcome you in our lovely Restaurant Radicchio.

At the beginning of the year we created the new, fresh and crispy menu with the wide choice of exquisite specialities. Besides traditional Croatian cuisine, as always, you can savour Austrian dishes and special kids’ meals. New: our offer includes also vegan meals. Here is a sneak peek preview of our vegan menu:

Starter – Trilogy of stuffed antipasti with pepper-curry cream and jellied rocked lettuce

Main course – Red beet gnocchi with long-pepper and coconut foam, sprouts, horseradish and beetroot potpourri

Dessert – Tonka bean panna cotta with marinated strawberries and almonds

Who can resist that? Tasty vegan three course meal for only EUR 20,00. Let the great taste of this meal spoil you!

Sunny weather always invites people to go outside. Therefore we have reopened the Joe’s bar terrace. Take a break from work, relax and enjoy the fresh coffee and cakes from our very own patisserie (both available as a combo for only EUR 3,90). We are looking forward to your visit! 

T +385 1 4696-040
F +385 1 4696-096
E allegra@arcotelhotels.com 

Romantic dinner @ Restaurant Radicchio

February is a month full of love, romantic feelings, couples and warm embraces. We invite you to spend an evening in the unique ambience of the restaurant Radicchio accompanied by romantic music. Enjoy the exquisite dinner for two and choose between a fish or meat menu.

“Only you”

Fresh salad bouquet with grilled pear, blue noble cheese cubes,

grapes and almond leaves, served with sweet sour chilli dressing

&

Poached scorpion fish fillet served with seafood sauce
and corn grits cube with herbs 

&

Sweet Belgium chocolate heart with raspberry jelly

and soft vanilla cream

or

„Love passion“

Chicken consommé with vegetable bouquet

and corn grit bite with salty “rožata”

&

The finest veal gently cooked, served
with mushroom ragout and turkey roll with arugula, salty cheese
and mild peppers with potato biscuits

&

Sweet Belgium chocolate heart with raspberry jelly

and soft vanilla cream

This selected specialities are available for 13,50 EUR per person, we recommend the following wines:  

 Graševina 0,10 l – 1,40 €

Cabarnet Sauvignon 0,10 l – 1,40 €

Surprise your loved one, book your table for two, enjoy the relaxed romantic evening. Leave the rest to us. We are looking forward to your visit!

T +385 1 4696-000
F +385 1 4696-096
E allegra@arcotelhotels.com   

Valentine's Day is drawing near

February is usually referred to as the month of love. Accordingly, we have prepared a special romantic package called "The month of love". However, love should not be celebrated only on Valentine's Day, so we have extended the offer to every weekend in the month of February. Surprise your loved one with our special romantic package. Enjoy the exquisite dishes and relax in our spacious rooms. Spend the late nights in our Joe's bar and try some of the finest cocktails. 

The package includes:

-Overnight for two persons with a rich breakfast served in your room

-Welcome pralines

-Surprise cocktail at Joe’s bar

-Romantic candle light dinner for two in a splendid ambience of the restaurant Radicchio *

-Two Zagreb cards with the unlimited access for the means of public transportation and discounts -for all major attractions (details available at www.zagrebcard.fivestars.hr)

Price: 146,00 EUR in a Comfort room **

* Drinks along your dinner are charged extra.

** Special offer is available exclusively for arrivals on Fridays or Saturdays in the period from 01^st - 28^th of February 2014.

In addition to the package, you will have the chance to participate in the prize draw where we will award lucky winners with a romantic dinner for two in our restaurant Radicchio. Be sure to follow us in the next two weeks on Facebook, Twitter or Google+ and do not miss this amazing romantic prize! Good Luck!

T +385 4696-000
F +385 4696-096
E allegra@arcotelhotels.com 
www.arcotelhotels.com