Noel
Zagreb, Croatia
⭐1 Star
The Experience
From Michelin Guide
The tasting menu changes four times a year based on the seasons: in winter the undisputed protagonists are mushrooms and truffles together with winged game, while in springtime they are early vegetables. Dinner is a sensational journey among classic creations made with special care and other more modern creations with an original flavor, as well as several varieties of bread baked in an adjacent bakery. The wine list is outstanding: the different regions of Italy are well represented, without however neglecting Europe and America. Considering the great attention paid to tea (from Chine, Japan and Morocco), the restaurant offers not only wine pairing, but also tea pairing and also pairing with both. Strong zero waste ethics means that no part of the products used in the kitchen are wasted.
Unique Things
From Visitor Experiences
Unique / Unconventional Aspects of Noel, Zagreb Michelin Star Restaurant
1. Integration of Local Ingredients with French Techniques
Noel uniquely combines local Croatian ingredients with refined French culinary techniques. This fusion is expertly executed by head chef Mario Mandarić, creating a haute cuisine experience that elevates regional flavors through classic French methods.
2. Exceptional Wine Program Led by Renowned Sommelier Ivan Jug
Noel stands out for having the best sommelier in continental Croatia, Ivan Jug, who curates an exceptional wine list featuring prestigious labels such as Domaine Romanee Conti. The restaurant also hosts luxury wine dinners with world-leading wineries like Ornellaia, Nikolaihof, and Nino Franco, making it a top destination for wine connoisseurs.
3. Unique Ambiance with an Open Kitchen and Private Wine Cellar Dining
The restaurant’s atmosphere is both modern and comfortable, featuring wooden tables, cozy upholstered chairs, and an open kitchen pass that fosters interaction between guests and chefs. Additionally, the wine cellar doubles as a private dining room for exclusive wine pairing experiences, adding a distinctive touch to the dining environment.
Ingredient Stars
From Visitor Experiences
The most honored or signature ingredients at the Michelin-starred restaurant Noel in Zagreb, reflecting their culinary identity and seasonal menus, include:
Mushrooms and Truffles: These are highlighted especially in the winter tasting menu, serving as key protagonists that showcase local forest flavors and luxury elements in dishes.
Winged Game: Also featured prominently in the winter menu, winged game brings a traditional and robust flavor profile, aligning with the restaurant’s use of local ingredients and French culinary techniques.
Asparagus: Used in spring menus, asparagus is combined with ingredients like miso and hazelnut, illustrating the restaurant’s blend of local produce with Asian influences and creative pairings.
Scallops: Featured in dishes such as mushroom tartelette with scallops, scallops add a refined seafood element that balances earthiness and freshness.
Mackerel: Incorporated with Tom Yum and apple, mackerel represents the restaurant’s innovative approach, merging local fish with Asian-inspired flavors.
These ingredients are significant as they reflect Noel’s commitment to seasonal, local produce elevated by French techniques and global influences, creating a refined and innovative dining experience.