Linhart Hotel

Great spot to experience a rustic Slovenian meal. Stopped by for the “local’s lunch” on my recent trip. The restaurant is better known for its creative tasting menu, but pretty much everyone there was doing the same. I went for the longest option (7 courses), and the whole meal was in that sweet spot between rustic and refined. A lot of the dishes leaned on classic Slovenian ingredients like trout, mushrooms, yogurt, and potatoes. Some of my favorites were the chowder, the lake trout, the cold tomato soup, and the chicken. The chowder, made with kohlrabi and egg yolk, had this grounded, earthy finish that felt perfect for the region. The lake trout with watermelon and red onions almost felt like a Slovenian take on salmon ceviche. The trout was lean, and those watermelon spheres gave these tiny pops of sweetness that balanced everything out really well. The cold tomato soup wasn’t at all like a gazpacho. Instead of bright acidity, it was gentle and creamy, topped with crushed popcorn that added this warm, nutty note. With the yogurt foam and olive oil, the layers built really well. The main proteins (the chicken and the trout) were solid, though I was way too full by the time the chicken arrived to appreciate it properly. The hotel/restaurant is a bit of a trek unless you’re already driving around the area, but if you’re nearby, the lunch course is worth doing. Just don’t go past five courses unless you’re really starving.

5 course tasting menu with wine pairing. Had high expectations given the price and Michelin star. First the positives: bread was heavenly, some courses were very good, I loved the genuine pleasantness of the staff. The negatives tho: tortellini with very thick pasta, sorbet was half melted when it arrived. Generally we felt like we had better food at some non Michelin restaurants. Wine pairing was underwhelming and had a very high markup compared to store prices. 4€ for tap water. Overall I would give it 3.5 stars and although I don't regret the visit I would not go again.

Had a coffee opposite and spotted the restaurant. Was 10 minutes to opening and got a table for lunch. What a treat, the dumpling was great but the potato foam with the fish was memorable. Good wine recommendations and excellent service. Could not have had a better lunch that day.