The Michelin production team visited Hotel Plesnik, unveiling Plesnik’s philosophy of haute cuisine embraced by pristine nature to a global culinary audience.
Restavracija Plesnik has reached a new level of international recognition: the Michelin Guide has published an in-depth article and video on its platform, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the restaurant through a story of sustainability, local ingredients, and distinctive dishes rooted in the heart of the Logar Valley. The feature is part of a partnership between the Michelin Guide and the Slovenian Tourist Board, connecting world-class gastronomy with the international promotion of Slovenia as a sustainable culinary destination.
A story captured in the Behind the Dish series
The video forms part of Michelin’s Behind the Dish series, which takes viewers behind the scenes of top kitchens around the world. This episode highlights sirnek, a unique fermented cottage cheese that represents an important part of the Solčavsko region’s identity. Beyond gastronomy, the video also emphasises collaboration with local suppliers and respect for seasonal ingredients – cornerstones of the restaurant’s sustainable approach, which was recognised last year with a Michelin Green Star.
In the video, Plesnik’s chef Tom Čopar reveals his process of creating a contemporary interpretation of local culinary heritage. He first visits the nearby Matk farm, known for its exceptional dairy products, before preparing an appetiser that transports guests to the very heart of the Logar Valley with the first bite: sirnek in a honey sauce with local wild herbs and roasted apples.
Nature as both inspiration and responsibility
The story is further enriched by the scenes from Matk farm, including charming footage of goats and cheese production, as well as breathtaking aerial views of the Logar Valley and the Kamnik–Savinja Alps – the remarkable natural setting in which Restaurant Plesnik operates. This immediate connection with nature shapes its culinary philosophy, grounded in respect for the local environment, tradition, and sustainable practices.
A Michelin Green Star as recognition and motivation
Last year, Restaurant Plesnik was awarded the prestigious Michelin Green Star, granted to restaurants with an outstanding commitment to sustainability. In the latest guide, it was the only new recipient of this distinction, further affirming its forward-thinking approach and the successful work of Plesnik’s chefs Janez Bratovž and Tom Čopar, alongside Hotel Plesnik’s director, Urška Kolar.
Published in multiple languages, Michelin’s feature strengthens the restaurant’s position as one of the leading ambassadors of contemporary, green Slovenian cuisine – bringing together refined gastronomy, local ingredients, and a responsible approach to the environment. At the same time, such exposure is an excellent promotion of Slovenia as a whole, enhancing its reputation as a sustainable and high-quality gastronomic destination.
The video offers an intimate insight into the creative process and the people behind one of Slovenia’s most compelling culinary stories of the past two years:
Through this project, Michelin presents not just a dish, but an entire story – from landscape to plate. Restavracija Plesnik stands as a testament to the idea that a deep connection with the environment creates the most authentic and memorable culinary experiences, continually placing Slovenia on the global culinary and green map.
