Velvet Dinner 2025 at the World’s Oldest Grapevine

Set against the majestic backdrop of the Guinness World Record-holding Oldest Grapevine in the world, the Velvet Dinner 2025 returns for its fourth edition—this time in a fresh new setting at Trg Najstarejše trte, in the heart of Maribor’s revitalized Lent district.

More than just a dinner, Velvet Dinner is a celebration of culinary artistry, local heritage, and intergenerational collaboration. It brings together top chefs, passionate students, and food enthusiasts for an evening that redefines the boundaries of hospitality.

A Culinary Experience that Transcends the Plate

At its heart, Velvet Dinner is about connection—between education and real-world practice, between tradition and innovation, and between rising stars and culinary masters. Over 80 students from the College of Hospitality and Tourism Maribor (VSGT) and the Secondary School for Hospitality and Tourism Maribor (SŠGT) will showcase their skills in front of 160 guests, transforming one evening into a vibrant stage for the future of hospitality.

Each dish and every element of service is a result of hard-earned knowledge, youthful creativity, and expert mentorship. Hospitality here is not just a profession—it’s a performance, a craft, and a passion.

Three Chefs – Three Regions – One Story

This year, three acclaimed chefs will guide and inspire a new generation of culinary talent, each representing a unique Slovenian region and culinary philosophy:

• Rok Smonkar (Restaurant Gjerkeš – Prekmurje/Styria)
  At just 25 years old, Smonkar brings over a decade of experience from Michelin-starred kitchens like Steirereck (Vienna) and St. Hubertus (Italy). Now leading the culinary vision at Estate Gjerkeš, he blends Prekmurje and Styrian influences with precision, passion, and a deep respect for local ingredients.

The Best Gastronomic festivals & events in Slovenia

Slovenia is a paradise for food lovers, offering a variety of gastronomic festivals and culinary events that highlight the country’s rich culinary heritage. From traditional regional dishes and artisan products to Michelin-level innovation, these food events connect you with local ingredients, passionate chefs, and unforgettable experiences. Here’s a selection of the best gastronomic festivals in 2025 in Slovenia you shouldn’t miss. Gourmet November Ljubljana This month-long culinary celebration in the capital is a highlight of the autumn season. Gourmet November offers a rich program of wine tastings, pop-up dinners, chef-led workshops, and special events featuring the best of Slovenian cuisine. […]

• Janez Bratovž (JB Restaurant – Ljubljana)
  A true legend of Slovenian gastronomy, Bratovž is a pioneer who brought Slovenia into the international spotlight. His minimalist and authentic approach continues to inspire as he now mentors a young team at Hotel Plesnik in Logar Valley, emphasizing locality, memory, and purity of flavor.

• Sebastjan Plevčak (Restaurant Sedem – Maribor)
  As head of Restaurant Sedem, a Michelin-recommended training restaurant, Plevčak combines innovation, mentorship, and local identity. His dish will pay tribute to the Drava River—flowing through Maribor, carrying the stories of generations.

The Best Wine festivals & events in Slovenia

​Slovenia, renowned for its rich winemaking heritage, offers a plethora of wine festivals throughout 2025 that cater to both connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts. These events not only showcase the country’s diverse wine offerings but also immerse visitors in local culture, cuisine, and traditions. Here are some of the standout wine festivals scheduled for 2025:​ Orange Wine Festival, Izola On April 25, 2025, the coastal town of Izola will host the esteemed Orange Wine Festival. This festival is dedicated to orange wines—white wines produced using extended maceration techniques, resulting in unique flavors and hues. Attendees can sample over 300 wines from […]

Rising Stars of 2025

Under the mentorship of these chefs, four young culinary and hospitality talents will step into the spotlight:

• Žiga Salkić, SŠGT Maribor (Mentor: Rok Smonkar)
• Pija Frešer, VSGT Maribor (Mentor: Janez Bratovž)
• Gabrijel Majerhofer, SŠGT Maribor & Eva Kositer, VSGT Maribor (Mentors: Smiljan Benkovič, Tadej Ljubec, Jernej Lubej)

Together, they represent the vibrant future of Slovenia’s culinary scene—where knowledge meets passion, and tradition is a foundation for innovation.

Velvet Dinner 2025 is co-organized by:

• Maribor Tourist Board (Zavod za turizem Maribor)
• Secondary School for Hospitality and Tourism Maribor (SŠGT)
• College of Hospitality and Tourism Maribor (VSGT)
• Event agency Factumevent

Ticket Price: €130 per person (Sold Out)
Rain Date: Thursday, 5 June 2025

For those lucky enough to have secured a seat, Velvet Dinner 2025 promises an unforgettable evening—where flavors, stories, and generations come together under the stars.

MARIBOR: The capital of Štajerska

Sitting in the foothills of the Pohorje Mountains and straddling the banks of the Drava River, Maribor is Slovenia’s second largest city though it sometimes feels more like a country town. An industrial powerhouse in Yugoslav times, many of the state owned companies closed down leading to a tough transition period which the city is still dealing with today. And whilst the industrial zones aren’t much to see, there are plenty of excellent natural, cultural and historic sights worth checking out both in and around town. Despite its size, Maribor has a vibrant café culture, excellent bars and restaurants as […]