Dining Out 02 December 2024

Marko Pavčnik: one region, two gastronomic souls

Marko Pavčnik is a renowned Slovenian chef celebrated for his innovative approach to cuisine. His culinary journey is beautifully encapsulated in his two distinct establishments: Pavus and LALU Bistro.

Pavus is a fine dining restaurant located in the historic Tabor Castle in Laško. Recently awarded a Michelin star in 2024, Pavus is a testament to Pavčnik’s commitment to culinary excellence. The restaurant offers a modern cuisine that artfully blends traditional Slovenian flavors with contemporary techniques. Each dish at Pavus is meticulously crafted, showcasing a symphony of flavors that pay homage to the past while embracing the future. The picturesque setting of Tabor Castle adds to the enchanting dining experience, making Pavus a gourmet haven for food enthusiasts.

Pavus - Boris Vrabec
Pavus - Boris Vrabec
Pavus - Rok Dezelak
Pavus - Rok Dezelak

At Pavus, chef Marko Pavčnik showcases his culinary creativity with a variety of signature dishes that highlight local, seasonal ingredients. Some of the standout dishes include:

Deer Tartare - A refined dish featuring locally sourced venison, delicately seasoned and served with a variety of accompaniments that enhance its natural flavors.
Trout with Buckwheat - This dish combines fresh trout with buckwheat, a staple in Slovenian cuisine, presented in a modern and innovative way.
Pumpkin Soup with Truffle Oil - A rich and creamy pumpkin soup, elevated with the luxurious addition of truffle oil, offering a perfect balance of earthy and sweet flavors.
Beef Cheeks with Polenta - Slow-cooked beef cheeks served with creamy polenta, showcasing a harmonious blend of textures and deep, savory flavors

Sami Rahim  - Pavus, main dish
Sami Rahim - Pavus, main dish

On the other hand, LALU Bistro represents the more casual and modern side of Pavčnik’s culinary vision. Located in the heart of Celje, LALU Bistro focuses on regional cuisine and authentic tastes, delivered in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. The bistro celebrates local ingredients, transforming them into delightful dishes that resonate with the true flavors of the region. The menu at LALU Bistro is designed to be approachable yet sophisticated, offering a variety of dishes that cater to different tastes and preferences

LALU Bistro - Rok Dezelak
LALU Bistro - Rok Dezelak
Lalu Bistro- Rok Dezelak
Lalu Bistro- Rok Dezelak

LALU Bistro offers a variety of signature dishes that highlight the best of regional Slovenian cuisine with a modern twist. Here are some of the standout dishes you can expect to find:

Bao Buns with Crispy Pork - Soft bao buns filled with crispy pork, kimchi, gherkins, and wasabi mayonnaise, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Stracciatella Cheese with Eggplant and Pistachio Pesto - A creative dish featuring creamy stracciatella cheese paired with roasted eggplant and a flavorful pistachio pesto.
Veal Spider Steak - Tender veal steak served with mashed potatoes infused with truffles and green beans, showcasing a sophisticated yet comforting combination.
Wild Garlic Soup - A seasonal favorite, this soup is made with fresh wild garlic, providing a vibrant and aromatic start to your meal.
Pavlova Cake with Berries and Sorbet - A modern take on the classic Pavlova, this dessert features a meringue base topped with fresh berries and a refreshing sorbet.

Lara Pavčnik - LALU Bistro, main dish
Lara Pavčnik - LALU Bistro, main dish

These dishes reflect LALU Bistro’s commitment to using high-quality, local ingredients and its ability to transform traditional flavors into contemporary culinary delights.

Together, Pavus and LALU Bistro highlight Marko Pavčnik’s versatility and passion for culinary arts. They offer diners a unique journey through the historical and contemporary landscapes of Slovenian cuisine, reflecting Pavčnik’s dedication to both tradition and innovation.

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Rates in USD for 1 night, 1 guest