We recently presented you with our international food guide to Split in 2018 - but with the latest addition of Kinoteka, Split's international culinary scene just got a lot hotter.
Last weekend, Kinoteka restaurant and bar opened to the Split public in one of the most breathtaking locations not just in the Dalmatian capital, but along all of the Adriatic. This new hotspot on the Split gastro-scene offers a unique fusion of Asian and Mediterranean cuisine, and an enviable list of carefully crafted cocktails by bartender Julian Bolenz, named the best bartender in London last year. Apart from top-notch specialties, Kinoteka also stands out for their unique interior designed by the owners themselves, thus giving homage to Split’s Golden Gate.
Situated in a Gothic palace from the 15th century with one of the most beautiful enclosed courtyards inside Diocletian's Palace, Kinoteka writes a new story where hospitality, interior design, craft cocktails and fusion cuisine penetrate the center of Split. The idea for the name ‘Kinoteka’ came from the cult Split cinema ‘Golden Gate’ (Kinoteka Zlatna Vrata) which is located directly above the restaurant, and since 1964 has remained a favorite place for filmmakers and movie buffs to gather. For this reason, part of the Kinoteka interior pays tribute to the cinema - and the space even includes restored cinema seat. Thus, guests can choose to sit in a chair dedicated to Bette Davis, Frank Sinatra, F. F. Copolli, Clint Eastwood, or many other big timers in the film industry. Kinoteka’s interior is also enriched with classic film posters from 1964, which were created in collaboration with film critic Mirom Nikolić.
While the setting itself will sweep you off of your feet, it’s the comestible creations of the Kinoteka team that has our attention.
By joining the flavors of Asia and the Mediterranean, Kinoteka has created a new story in the Dalmatian capital with a ripple of flavors and scents all gourmands with love. Fresh seafood delicacies combined with new spices, smells and a vibrant energy is crafting a culinary journey unlike we have seen before in Split. Chef Vid Nikolić, Croatia’s number one man for everything Asian fusion, has used his mastery to differentiate Kinoteka from the rest with bangers like smoked tofu spring rolls, pork belly buns, Tom Kha soup, green curry, Pad Thai, and an enticing bowl of Japanese ramen soup boasting glazed pork belly, marinated shiitake mushrooms, and garlic olive oil.
Kinoteka is also recognized for their impressive cocktail list featuring 15 signature cocktails designed by Julian Bolenz and his world of bartending experience. Along with the Split Gin Fizz which features craft gin winery Bibich, guests can tickle their taste buds with the fusions of a Green Tea and Jasmin Julep, and a Honolulu Honey completed with melted butter, honey and mango. Guests of Kinoteka can also try the Passion Brulee, which was Julian’s winning cocktail at the prestigious London Club and Bar Awards.
"The concept is carefully designed so you can enjoy best coffee and a rich breakfast in the morning, and delight in one of our delicious delicacies for lunch or dinner with top quality wines. In the evenings, our signature cocktails are made with the highest-quality alcohol and freshest ingredients. We started our story from Asia and infused it with the magnificent Mediterranean; we took the best of both kitchens to get the perfect blend. We put an emphasis on enjoying all of the senses, and every night to compliment our dishes and drinks, we will have DJs and even host live music performances once a week,” explained the Kinoteka owners. Kinoteka will kick off their music program this evening with DJ Reno, followed by live jazz on Friday, and Swing by Reno on Saturday!
Open in Split today, the flavors of Asia are just one step away. What are you waiting for?
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Source: Journal.hr
