Summer in Germany, in full swing. Gardens are bursting with beautiful produce, freshwater lake swimming beckons, and we are called to gather at communal tables, plunging our forks into the best of the season.
“A Culinary Quest”—was an intimate summer series exploring the modern food landscape, with an overnight stay at a selected Design Hotels property in Germany. From July through September, we looked to the culinary talents of three prominent chefs. They provided insights into their artistry, and later into the evening, produced specially crafted menus highlighting the quality of the ingredients and their personal approaches.
This event gave guests the opportunity to engage and connect with new friends, to steep themselves in the local culture of each hotel, and enjoy innovative gastronomy, with an experience that transcended traditional realms of hospitality.
Three editions. Three chefs. Three hotels. A Culinary Quest: a reminder to eat and live with abandon.
Where: The George Hotel, Hamburg
When: July 11—12
What: An exclusive overnight stay and culinary adventure with otto from Berlin.
Where: The Qvest Hotel, Cologne
When: August 23—24
What: An overnight stay and intimate culinary adventure with chef Ellie Bouhadana from Australia.
For the first edition of A Culinary Quest, we headed to The George Hotel Hamburg for an overnight adventure starring otto from Berlin. After a day-trip to the local fishery, and a masterclass on how to fillet a whole trout like a pro, the otto team dished out the best of the season in the courtyard of The George Hotel. Discover more about the event here.
A Culinary Quest in Cologne took place at the historic and neo-gothic Qvest Hotel, and explored the intersection of Ellie Bouhadana’s mixed identity. After an intimate discussion and a lemon preserving workshop in the gallery next door, Ellie treated guests to a family-style dinner, with recipes passed down from her family.
A Culinary Quest, Edition 3 featured an overnight stay at Berlin’s historic Wilmina Hotel, where Amsterdam’s Oficina curated a site-specific, multisensory experience. Highlights included a tea ceremony, sound bath, and a buffet-style dinner, followed by desserts and a lively cocktail reception. Guests returned to Wilmina for a restful night, a gourmet breakfast, and a special farewell gift to conclude the event.