The L E V I T A T E restaurant in Vinohrady is one of those establishments that completely transcends the conventional idea of fine dining. A visit here does not begin with the classic seating at a table, but with ringing a bell at an inconspicuous door, behind which a world of unexpected culinary adventure opens up. The manager personally welcomes you, and thus begins an evening that turns into a veritable culinary safari – a journey through a four-story house, with each part of the experience taking place in a different setting, whose subtle refinements are perfectly in tune with the extraordinary nature of the cuisine and the entire concept. The introduction is an aperitif with a hint of lemongrass, setting the guest’s mood for an experience that defies all standards. This is followed by an extensive evening menu of up to eighteen courses. Guests choose their own plates and service, making the ritual of dining a personal part of the whole experience. Each course is a separate story – original, surprising, yet perfectly balanced. It is almost unbelievable that despite the number of courses, one can remember each of them. The dishes are technically flawless, precisely executed, and full of ideas that entertain and inspire. Let us mention the dish the meal mungo beans – goji – lotus, offering a wonderful new flavor, or perfect foie gras – matcha – hibiscus, or perfectly prepared foie gras topped with hibiscus gel, on a matcha meringue. Pigeon – truffle – herbs, an absolutely precise dish. Mushrooms – hamachi – duck, a top-notch dumpling stuffed with duck, elevated by a strong mushroom broth. Green banana – truffle – buttermilk provided a refreshing finish. Wine accompaniment is an integral part of the experience. The sommelier selects wines with exceptional sensitivity and a perfect understanding of flavor combinations – pairing is a separate discipline here and an important part of the whole concept. Chef Christian Chu is one of the most prominent gastronomic personalities on the current Prague scene. His cuisine is extraordinarily creative, yet utterly precise.
