The Esplanade is an elegant hotel in the centre of Zagreb. The last time I stayed here was seven years ago when I was on my way to attend a conference in Dubrovnik. In the intervening years the hotel has clearly been well maintained.

The public areas of the hotel, such as the lobby and bar have an interesting fin de siècle aesthetic.

Deluxe King Room

I’m staying in a Deluxe King Room on the fifth floor. What is immediately noticeable, is just how quiet the room is. It’s also very big. Straight opposite the entrance to the room is a lounge area with a coffee machine in the corner.

The room’s best feature is its memory foam mattress. I seriously need one of these at home. The support is simply excellent!

The room also has a fully stocked fridge.

The bathroom is generously laid out and spacious, with a separate bath and shower. The toiletries and amenities are by L’Occitane.

Dining at Zinfandel’s

The Esplanade has two restaurants: the bistro at street level, and Zinfandel’s behind the lobby, which is the main restaurant where they also serve breakfast. The food is good, and the setting is obviously very grand, just like the rest of the hotel.

For breakfast there is a large buffet with sweet and savoury dishes. The Esplanade is well known in Zagreb for its signature Struckli – which is difficult to describe. It has the same texture as lasagna, but it’s made with cream only. It’s not sweet and not savoury either, but it’s certainly very rich. In addition to the buffet, there is also a menu with a wide range of sweet and savoury hot dishes to order.

The Esplanade is a lovely hotel and a fascinating time capsule from a bygone era. Its tradition appeals to me. Apart from that though, the hotel is very comfortable. It’s perfectly located next to the main railway station and in walking distance to the centre of Zagreb and the old town. And the staff are all just so friendly and engaging.