Bánh mì isn’t just a sandwich in Saigon. It’s a ritual. It’s that mid-morning reward, that post-coffee craving, that late-night bite after too many beers. It’s fast, cheap, packed with flavor, and endlessly customizable. It’s also absolutely everywhere, from street corners and alleyways to tiny storefronts and fluorescent-lit kiosks with handwritten signs. Some vendors make it feel like fast food, others treat it like an art form. After spending time chasing crumbs around Saigon, I can say with full confidence that I understand the obsession.

What Is Bánh Mì?

At first glance, it might just look like a sandwich. But bánh mì is Vietnam’s way of taking something familiar, flipping it on its head, and making it unforgettable.

It starts with the bread. The baguette is French in origin but totally different in execution. It’s lighter, crispier, and shatters at the first bite. The inside is soft and airy, almost cloud-like, while the crust offers that satisfying crunch that should be illegal in some countries. Then comes the filling. There’s usually a layer of pâté or mayonnaise to start things off, then a medley of meats, often pork in some form, maybe cold cuts or grilled slices, sometimes meatballs or patties. Add pickled carrots and daikon, cucumber spears, sprigs of fresh coriander, and a few slices of chili. If you’re lucky, they’ll splash in some soy or seasoning sauce that brings everything together.

The result is a sandwich with more texture and flavor in one bite than most meals manage in an entire plate. It’s hot and cold, spicy and refreshing, crunchy and soft, sweet and savory. And just when you think you’ve figured it out, a new version surprises you all over again. No wonder it was announced as one of the best sandwiches in the world!

My Favorite Bánh Mì Spots in Saigon

Let’s talk about the places that made me stop mid-bite and mumble something like “oh wow” with a mouth full of food. Some are chaotic carts, others are more polished storefronts. But each one earned its spot on this list through honest flavor and that hard-to-explain feeling that you’ve found something special.

Banh Mi 37 Nguyen Trai

This is hands down my favorite. There’s no shop, just a small cart tucked under some trees near an alley. If you’re lucky, the smoke from the grill will lead you there before you even see the stall. What they do here is simple but magical. They grill small, juicy pork patties over real charcoal. The smoky smell fills the air, and as you wait in line (because there is always a line), you can see the sandwiches coming together one by one. Fresh baguette, hot patties, cucumber, herbs, pickled vegetables, and a fiery chili sauce, if you ask for it. I ate mine standing on the sidewalk, juice dripping down my hand, and immediately considered getting another one. There’s nothing fancy about it. It’s just honest food made with care, and it tastes like the real Saigon.

My Banh Mi Saigon

This place is a bit more polished. It’s indoors, there are seats, and everything is clean and organized. On a hot day when I didn’t feel like squatting on the curb, it was a welcome break. The sandwiches here are neat, the flavors fresh, and the menu includes options for vegetarians and people who might not be up for spicy or funky flavors. It’s a great starting point if you’re new to the city or want to ease into the bánh mì world before going full-on street food. Just be ready to pay more.

Banh Mi Tuan Map

Tuan Map is one of those places that feels both old-school and familiar. You’ll see them in several locations around town, and each time I’ve gone, the sandwiches have been consistently good. The bread is always warm, the meats taste fresh, and the layering is generous but not overwhelming. What stands out here is the chả bò, which is a peppery beef sausage that pairs really well with their pickled veggies and a light splash of sauce. This is the kind of spot where you can grab a bánh mì with one hand and a coffee with the other, and it feels like your day just improved.

Banh Mi Pha Lau Ba Sau

This one’s for the adventurous. I’ll be honest, I wasn’t sure at first. They serve their bánh mì with phá lấu, which is stewed organ meat. It’s rich, intense, and not exactly beginner-friendly. But I gave it a shot and ended up finishing the whole thing. The meat is tender, the sauce is deep and spiced, and the bread holds up surprisingly well under the weight of it all. If you’re in the mood for something bold and very local, this one is worth the risk.

Banh Mi Huynh Hoa

This is probably the most famous bánh mì in Saigon. And yes, it lives up to the hype. When I first saw it, I thought there must have been a mistake. The thing was massive, stuffed with what looked like half the deli counter. Layers and layers of cold cuts, thick mayo, pâté, and pickled vegetables, all wedged into a huge baguette. It’s heavy, messy, and absolutely over-the-top, and somehow it works. It’s not something I’d eat every day, but it’s the kind of sandwich you try once and remember for a long time.

Banh Mi Hong Hoa

Hong Hoa feels like the more balanced cousin of Huynh Hoa. The portions are generous but manageable. The bread is fresh and warm, and the fillings are flavorful without tipping into overkill. I liked the way they built their sandwiches. There’s intention in every layer, and it all comes together in a really satisfying way. This is a bánh mì you could eat every day and never get tired of.

Banh Mi Kep Cha

This one was a happy accident. I stumbled upon it while walking back from a coffee run. It’s simple, focused, and all about the meat. Just slices of chả (Vietnamese sausage), a few pickled veggies, herbs, and maybe some chili if you ask for it. There’s something about the minimalism here that really appealed to me. Sometimes less is more, and this sandwich proved it.

Final Thoughts

If I could only eat one bánh mì in Saigon again, it would have to be the one from Banh Mi 37 Nguyen Trai. There’s something about the smoky pork patties, the heat of the chili, the freshness of the bread, and everything just clicks. It captures the essence of the street food scene here. It’s not trying too hard. It’s just really, really good.

But honestly, part of the fun is wandering the streets and letting your nose decide where to eat. Every neighborhood has its own take on bánh mì. Some are bold and spicy, some are comforting and familiar. Some are gone in three bites, others are a meal in themselves. Try them all if you can. It’s the best way to taste Saigon, one bite at a time.

Let the crumbs fall where they may.

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About

The family-owned restaurant also goes by the name Osteria Debeluh. Generally speaking, we can say that osteria is just another word for a restaurant with a twist. You can expect local and seasonal and some Italian charm is guaranteed. More than two decades ago, Chef Jure Tomic stepped on the culinary quest. Surely, his passion started much earlier, after all, he excels in a variety of fields. With that being said, he knows that there is no future without the past. Therefore, respecting tradition is one way Chef Tomic gets inspiration for his seasonal dishes.

Restaurant Debeluh Ambiance

The interior of the Debeluh Restaurant is inspired by the French countryside. Luckily, tables are in decent sizes so you’ll feel nice and cosy. We can say that romance is the connecting force holding together the old and the new. Recently added sun room eternalised the spring through the stunning blossoms displayed on the wallpaper.

Drinks

The focus on the drinks menu at the Debeluh Restaurant is on the wine. Given the Chef’s sommelier background, it is safe to say that the collection is substantial. The growing collection counts almost 500 samples and includes both natural and conventional produce. Fortunately, the focus is on exquisite Slovenian produce in all colours. Needless to say, you’ll also find some spirits and aperitifs on offer with soft drinks as well.

Wine Pairing

Debeluh Restaurant boasts one of the best wine cards in Slovenia. Thanks to its proximity to some of the country’s wine regions, you’ll be able to try some hidden gems. There’s nothing better than enjoying a wine you love, especially when you can visit the place where it was made.

Sparkling Keltis

It turned out that the idea of starting the meal with a fruity bouquet of Keltis Sparkling wine is a great idea. No doubt, it was love at first sight, with the golden sparkle. How wouldn’t it be if it felt like starting with a dessert? Surely, every sip was worth savouring. It is a wonder how such a low sugar content tastes so refreshingly sweet. Grapes grown in the same region as the Debeluh restaurant sure add an extra cherry. Especially, because Keltis winery is located about 30 30-minute drive to the edge of the Kozjansko park. Important to mention is also the nature-friendly way of the Keltis boutique winery.

Albiana Green Silvanec 23′

Tropically fruity bloom presents banana notes, but it also carries much more, even herbs and apples. Pleasant taste hides the Brut Nature essence and reveals an outburst of flavour. Besides that, we liked the refreshed mouthfeel in the end. Responsible for the boutique Albiana wine is the third generation of the Zaren family. Their vineyards are located about a 30-minute drive from Debeluh Restaurant.

Chardonnay Herga 21’

Late season harvest of the Chardonnay grapes matured in wooden barrels for 14 months. During the process, wine got hints of vanilla and a mature fruity array of peach, apple, and pineapple. Medium body reveals full flavour with somewhat oily texture and zingy surprise in the aftertaste.

Blue Frankinia Ajster

Blue Frankish wine matured in barrique barrels for 18 months. On the nose, we got black fruits, especially the candied cherry. It tasted even sweeter because it was grown in a natural way, following the strict Demeter certificate rules. The headquarters of the Ajster wine is less than a 10-minute drive from Debeluh Restaurant.

Debeluh Restaurant Food Review

A meticulously prepared meal is a guarantee for great pleasure, especially when the food is made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. All of this and more is true for Chef Jure Tomic, who is the creative force at the Osteria Debeluh. In case you have some dietary restrictions, we warmly urge you to share specifics with the Restaurant Debeluh at the time of your reservation. Now let’s focus on our food review for the Debeluh Restaurant review.

Amuse Bouche

Cherry Tomato

Freeze-dried cherry tomato melted in the mouth and gave space to the sweet and sour notes behind. Quickly, we were seduced by the young cheese. Perfect partners also embraced the glue holding them together in a form of local balsamic vinegar by Istenic.

Roast Sausage

A bite that felt like a warm hug. It was inspired by a Slovenian classic that is still very popular – pecenica. The star of the plate was deconstructed roasted sausage, which was finely seasoned. It was a proud companion to the espuma made from sautéed potatoes with onion.

Cold Appetizer

Seabass

Pure beauty satisfied both the eye and the taste. Of course, the mouth got much more pleasure out of it. Seabass is a delicate fish, and sashimi style is on the note. First, it was the textural joy coming from bouncy pickled porcini mushrooms. Then the soft seabass soaked the fluffy hollandaise sauce. For a nice companion, there were pickled porcini. Somehow, the sweet and sour combination pulled the rose notes out of nowhere. Amazing dish!

Pate

One could say that veal pate was the knight in a shining armour, made of beef carpaccio. Thin slices emphasized the fine taste of it and showed the character of the plate. We can say this is every meat-eater’s dream. Not just because of the moorish pate, but also because of the crisp pork rinds.

Warm Appetizer

Pasta has a special place in Chef’s heart, and not just because he was the Barilla Pasta World Champion.

Asparagus Pasta

Perfection to the details was hiding in an exquisite cook of both pasta and asparagus. We can say just the same was true for the flavor combination. All variations of green and white asparagus were just perfect with or without cottage cheese.

Winning pasta

Orekete way with pumpkins is a special course that is part of the Debeluh menu, no matter the season. For a start, it looked like a painting, and surely, we can call it a piece of art. Plenty of textures ranging from soft and creamy to full and crunchy. The biggest surprise happened by powdered pumpkin oil, which created a heat sensation before disappearing. Surely, the taste was satisfyingly rich and well worth the hype.

Main Dish

Umami bomb on a plate showed every ingredient in the best possible light. Smooth celeriac puree supported the soft lamb and crisp broccoli. Although the luscious lamb demi-glace sauce was the one we couldn’t get enough of. After all, it was refreshed with lemon and sweetened with caramel.

Dessert

Strudel & Vanilla

Blueberry strudel rolled in a rose was a treat on its own, but we loved it most when we combined it with vanilla cream. It was about hot and cold shifts that blended in a delightfully gentle tasting whole.

Cheesecake & Asparagus

Perfectly looking asparagus ice cream quenelle tasted just like it looked. It was a vitalizing addition to the deconstructed cheesecake. We loved the balance between the rich cheesecake and the light asparagus. Extra crunchy bits of asparagus offered extra pleasures, and so did the hazelnut crumble. If you add some saltines on top of this, you get a delicious dessert. Well done, chef!

Chocolate tower

The final treat was a selection of house-made pralines. Each bite delighted us. Every praline was unique and of the highest quality. Despite being full, we couldn’t resist savoring every last morsel.

Final Thought

Osteria Debeluh is more than just a stop on the way from Ljubljana to Zagreb, it’s a destination in its own right. With Chef Jure Tomic at the helm, this family-run gem combines deep respect for tradition with playful innovation. Each course feels personal, carefully crafted, and designed to surprise and delight, from the amuse-bouche to the last bite of chocolate.

What truly sets Debeluh apart is the harmony between the food, wine, and ambiance. The thoughtful wine pairings elevate every dish, while the cozy, romantic setting invites you to slow down and savor the experience. Whether you’re a curious traveler or a dedicated foodie, this is the kind of place that lingers in your memory long after the plates are cleared.

Restaurant Debeluh Review Card

• 9.6/10
  ATMOSPHERE – 9.6/10
• 9.6/10
  SERVICE – 9.6/10
• 9.5/10
  PRESENTATION – 9.5/10
• 9.6/10
  FOOD – 9.6/10
• 9.6/10
  DRINKS – 9.6/10
• 9.7/10
  VALUE – 9.7/10

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Cà Phê Sữa Đá or Iced Coffee with Condensed Milk

Before we go into the café shops in Ho Chi Minh City, we need to mention the ultimate star. For the ultimate experience of the coffee culture in Saigon, we are all about iced coffee with condensed milk. The best way to have a cup is from a street vendor that is loved by locals. Of course, it is a bonus if the lady has a stand on the side of the busy road or, even better, at the crossing. That way, you’ll enjoy the sweet delight and feel the buzz from the get-go.

What is special about Iced Coffee with Condensed Milk?

Everything starts with coffee beans, in the case of Vietnamese coffee, the Robusta coffee variety. Roast on the beans must range from medium to dark to get the desired intense and more bitter flavor. Afterward, the grinding must be done just right for the drip Phin filter. That means that the grind shouldn’t be too fine as it would clog the filter. However, the coffee should be well pressed into the filter for a slow drip process. Time enables coffee beans to fully develop a body that is rich in flavor. The taste can be described as chocolatey and nutty with vanilla-like properties. Combining it with condensed milk you get the addictive bitter-sweet combination that is just to die for. The brew is strong so don’t get too crazy, even though the second cup sounds very appealing.

Best Cafes in Saigon

It is safe to say that café culture in Ho Chi Minh City is changing rapidly. After all the focus is directed into artisanal passion for the high-quality product. We love the emphasis on the local produce and we hope this never changes.

The Workshop Coffee

The post-industrial look of the bright open space has some inspiring action going on in the middle. At the center, the brewing magic is happening and it is easy to see why it attracts all the looks. It is hard to look away from different brewing tools. Some look quite scientific and precision is easy to find in their coffee-making process. The Focus of The Workshop is on locally grown Arabica coffee in the Da Lat region, which they also roast and blend themselves. The workshop of this café with local coffee in Saigon is in a separate space from the Café. You’ll find both on top of the second floor of the building.

Our Coffee

When we saw the fizzy coffee, we couldn’t resist the temptation. Righteously so, because we loved it! As the name stated, it had tiny buttles that invigorated every sip and enhanced the refreshing fruity notes. We certainly didn’t expect to find such vivid plum and cherry notes in the iced coffee. As expected, our second coffee was also very tasty. It was a white coffee with a pleasing toffee body and hazelnut candy finish.

The Workshop Menu

The interactive menu explains how brewing methods affect the coffee. Then it lists all the coffee beans on offer with listed taste notes and details of each coffee variety. The menu covers food centered around Western influences on breakfast and brunch. Even though the Workshop is all about coffee, you’ll also find fresh juices, chocolate drinks, tea, and more. Can we say that the wall art is also on the menu? Although local artists aren’t directly listed, their artwork is on sale at the Workshop in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City.

The Fig

Already upon entering, we were in a much calmer state of mind. It is no secret that a natural environment filled with plants and water affects both the body and the soul. Before settling on the shaded outdoor terrace, we entered the Fig restaurant. We loved the natural color scheme with wooden furnishings. Without a doubt, this is one of the top coffee spots in Ho Chi Minh. A place to unwind and savor.

We took pleasure in ordering fresh Vietnamese spring rolls with intensely appetizing peanut sauce. Refreshing rolls were a good base for a fruity mocktail one could easily call compote. We say so because it is full of palmyra and jackfruit chunks and Cao Bang grass jelly cubes. What a refreshing treat! Yes, the coffee was also very good.

Mockingbird Coffee

Up on the 4th floor of an old building from the French era is quite a little spot for café hopping in Ho Chi Minh. At first, we had our doubts when we entered the dark stairways. Yet, we continued our journey toward the light and felt a sigh of relief after every floor. When we stepped on a balcony, we immediately felt like we were visiting an old friend. Perhaps, a little scruffy old friend but certainly hearty and charming. Maybe it was because of the tiny size or the guitar lady, but we felt we could stay there for a while. It could be that this makes Mockingbird Cafe one of the best cafés for digital nomads in Ho Chi Minh. If not that then the homely charm of the interior surely does. Honestly, we enjoyed our iced latte very much and we recommend it.

Cong Caphe

Admittedly, this is a coffee shop chain that you’ll find in about 66 different places. Everywhere you’ll recognize it by the signature military design inspired by the Viet Cong from the 1970 era. Usually, it is a lively space where you can enjoy something to eat and drink. Unquestionably, a must-have is their iced coconut milk coffee. Coconut milk coffee from Cong Caphe delights with a rich exchange of coconut milk and chocolate caramel coffee dimension. A combination that left us gasping for more.

FLY Cupcake Garden

FLY stands for Forever Love You, and we certainly love Cupcake Garden Forever. Both our cupcakes were as tasty as they looked, with pineapple winning the match. Simply because it was perfect in all ways. Starting with pineapple flavored cream flower and additional chunks that landed in the bouncy dough. Attention to the details carried through the interior is reminiscent of the walled garden. Indeed, it is a perfect spot for some fruity mocktails, but we went with coffee. Vietnamese iced coffee tasted fairly nutty and was rather sweet, just the way it ought to be.

38° Flower Market Tea House

As the name suggests, flowers are on sale and the focus is on tea, but that is not it. As it turned out we got a wonderfully tasting Vietnamese iced coffee that scored a balance between sweet and bitter. Since we love tea as well, we had to try their white bubble tea. The scent of jasmine flower went perfectly with milk bubbles that brought a playful texture.

The Interior of the 38° Flower Market Tea House is very chic and offers the perfect backdrop for photos. That is why we think it must be one of the Instagram-worthy cafés in Ho Chi Minh.

Ban Sonate Café

Hidden in a quiet corner of District 3, Ban Sonate Café is where calm and coffee come together in perfect harmony. With warm wooden interiors, classical music softly playing, and leafy views out the window, it feels more like a retreat than a café.

We kicked things off with the signature Vietnamese iced coffee, slow-dripped through a phin and poured over ice with condensed milk. It delivered exactly what we hoped for: bold, bittersweet, and dangerously easy to fall in love with. A pour-over followed, featuring beans from the Central Highlands. Earthy, rich, and just a little peppery, it was a cup worth slowing down for.

Final Thought

If you are asking where to find the best coffee in Saigon, rest assured that you don’t have to search far and wide. Rather, ask what kind of coffee you are after. Is it the famous Vietnamese coffee with ice and condensed milk, classic Italian espresso or are you after the trendy coconut coffee? In the case of something special and unique, we warmly recommend the Workshop, but we are sure that you’ll unexpectedly stumble upon a hidden gem café in Ho Chi Minh City.

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Wellness & SPA Center Atlantida

Atlantida SPA center has plenty to offer with a wide range of activities. Some, like sauna oasis, pool and gym are complimentary to all hotel guests. For the rest you need to make an appointment and consider what is it that you want to focus on. Personalized spa treatments ensure the wellness and beauty rituals best suited to your needs.

Massage Therapy

We started our relaxation and rejuvenation holidays with a classic whole-body massage. The massage therapist greeted us at the SPA reception table and took us straight to the massage room. There he gave us all the necessary details on how to get ready and waited for the signal before coming back in. We quickly got ready and wrapped ourselves from head to toe in a large waffle weave towel that could easily pass as a blanket. All cosied up we felt serene even before the massage started.

A tranquil atmosphere was a reality throughout the hour-long massage. Gentle music and pleasantly warm massage oil helped us to relax deeply. With our muscles relaxed, the massage therapist easily found the troubled spots, and we were happy he spent a few moments focusing on them. Slow and gentle movement amplified relaxation and time flew by.

To be honest the offer of different massages and techniques at the Atlantida Boutique Hotel is quite overwhelming. That is why it is best to go through your wishes and possible issues with a specialist. Only like that your health and beauty treatments will leave you feeling satisfied and fulfilled.

Beauty Treatments  

If you want body and facial treatments designed for lasting beauty, Atlantida SPA is the perfect choice. Needless to say, the list of the therapies is long and detailed so you’ll certainly find the best match for you. In a healthcare mecca such as Rogaska Slatina, you can expect state-of-the-art appliances and beauty products of the highest standards. Reasonably, they are using the number one Slovenia beauty brand – Afrodita Cosmetics.

Halotherapy

Halotherapy must be the easiest way to boost your health. This is basically about spending time in a dry salt room where you are surrounded by salt. Even air includes tiny salt particles, which helps with countless lung problems. The science behind the salt rooms dates back to the 12th century when people visited salt caves for relief from respiratory conditions and skin problems. Salt is recognized for clearing mucus from the airways and easing respiratory allergies, among many other benefits. The drying effect of the salt also does wonders for the skin, especially for eczema, acne, and skin allergies. We experienced positive effects on the skin in less than one hour. We kid you not, but the stubborn rash Vivi was fighting for quite a while shrunk and was almost gone by the next day.

PEGAZ Mg

A pioneering program named PEGAZ Mg is based on magnesium-rich mineral water, which comes to the surface about a 5-minute walk from the Atlantida Hotel. It has been proven that there is 1040 mg of Magnesium in a liter of Donat. Yes, Donat is the name of the most magnesium-rich water in the world. And this mineral-rich water is the base of all 4 different PEGAZ programs. Each program is tailored to the specific needs of the individual.

If you are after an exclusive spa experience, you can’t go wrong by choosing PEGAZ Mg. The first step is about discovering the details your heart is set on. That is done with the help of specialists using different modern approaches. In general, programs are divided by gender, for couples, and health. Or as PEGAZ Mg Afrodita, Apolon, Medical and Couple.

Brief History of Donat Mineral Water

Donat water has many minerals, but magnesium stands out. As we said before, the 1040 mg of magnesium per liter is the world record. It is pumped up to the surface from between 280m and 600m where it has been for 8000 years. The use of this mineral-rich water was first recorded in the year 1141. That year archbishop Konrad wrote to Count Wolfrad about the beneficial effects the water had on people. A deeper look into the healing water also happened quite early, 1572 is the year of the first official analysis. About a century later, in 1680 the book Praxis Medicale was published and Donat Water had a special mention in it. Just 5 years later in 1685 the Donat mineral water got its first book written in Latin.

Traveling Donat Water

In 1721 Austrian emperor Karl V. allowed the utilization of the spring for Vienna’s pharmacy. With royal approval, bottled Donat Water started traveling around the Empire, but officially the water was headed straight to Vienna. Only 9 years after the official recognition of the extraordinary powers of the spring water the second spring appeared. It wasn’t till 1803 when the Empire of Austria approved the Styrian country government to organize all the natural springs in Rogaska Slatina. At that time mineral water kept showing up in many spots, but in fear of the main spring running dry, the officials plugged small springs with wooden sticks. It was the same year when Rogaska Slatina became a healthcare destination.

Naming of the Mineral Water

Magnesium-rich water got a name after the nearby Donacka mountain, which is full of surprises. So much so that a few books were dedicated to the three-peaked mountain. Surely, the best way to meet the mountain is in person and check out the unparalleled old-growth beech forest on your adventure. We also can’t stay silent about the prehistoric pottery and the powerful energy of the mountain.

The Donat Legend

A long, long time ago, the mythological horse Pegaz traveled through what we now know as Slovenian land and got excited about its beauty. That is why he wanted to take a closer look and because of the low flight, he hit the mountain near Rogaska Slatina with a hoof. The hit was so severe that Earth’s crust moved. Exactly these changes to Earth’s crust made it possible for the mineral water to reach the surface.

Donat Healthcare Therapy

Different thermal spa treatments for the Rogaska Slatina spa experience are based on the Donat water. High magnesium content makes it the perfect stress relief agent that boosts overall health as a bonus. The Donat water has many benefits, not just on digestion but also on the liver, cardiovascular health, and stomach. Above all, it is a wonderful detox agent. To get the most out of the detox and wellness programs it is best to consume Donat mineral water as well. The drinking therapy should last up to 14 days with drinking intervals before every meal. However, it is important not to overdo it and Atlantida Hotel Rogaska Slatina and Medical Center Rogaska provided us with all the necessary information.

For example, a generally healthy person should drink 3 dl of warm Donat water half an hour before breakfast. Second intake is advised before lunch with 1,5 dl of warm and 1,5 dl of cold Donat water. The last glass of the day should be just cold Donat water again half an hour before dinner. However, it is best to see a specialist before starting the therapy so you truly get what your body needs.

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Where is Donat?

The Pivnica drinking hall where you can get Donat water is inside the Medical Center Rogaska. Right under the Pivnica drinking hall is the spring, making it directly connected to the healing mineral spring water known as Donat mineral water. When you buy a drinking ticket you’ll also get your drinking glass as well. Of course, once you are inside the hall you can have more than the recommended dose. But you must own that decision and if you plan on going nuts with Donat, please know the location of the toilet. This healing water is well known to boost digestion and you wouldn’t be the first one to underestimate its powers.

Medical Center Rogaska

It is safe to say that the Medical Center Rogaska is the biggest, oldest, and only healthcare center that houses magnesium-rich mineral water. In addition to that they are focused on preventing, healing, and rehabilitating gastroenterological diseases and metabolic issues. For sure the Medical Center isn’t focused just on that, after all, they have 50 doctors specialized in 15 different areas. No wonder the list of their services is very long and completed with cutting-edge medical devices. Surely, those who want to have a holistic comprehensive treatment must visit Rogaska Slatina.

Final Thought

Nature is full of surprises and offers many solutions to those willing to reconnect to Mother Earth. Indeed, Rogaska Slatina feels like a fairytale or a dream place, because it is almost unbelievable that such a magical place exists. Without a doubt, it is quite rare that people keep an open mind and at the same time use science to improve health. Even if your health isn’t on the last legs, we are sure that holidays for the body and the soul are a way to move forward. And where else to start than at the Atlantida Boutique Hotel, just a few minutes walk from the Medical Center Rogaska? I hope you liked our Atlantida Hotel Spa review.

Atlantida Hotel Spa Review Card

• 8.5/10
  ATMOSPHERE – 8.5/10
• 9.8/10
  OFFER – 9.8/10
• 9.0/10
  MASSAGE – 9.0/10
• 8.7/10
  RELAXATION ROOM – 8.7/10
• 9.5/10
  VALUE – 9.5/10

The post Atlantida Hotel Spa Review appeared first on Wild 'n' Free Diary.

Ambiance

Grandeur, in Art Deco style, follows guests at every step of the way around the Esplanade Hotel. The old charm of the 1920s is equally tantalizing and fascinating. However, we felt a sense of safety and tranquillity during our high tea time in the Esplanade 1925 Lounge and Cocktail Bar. Shiny chandeliers and spotless surfaces do that to us. We particularly loved how natural light put the dark wooden furnishings in the spotlight.

Lounge Bar 1925 Drinks Menu

The stocked bar can be seen from far away, but the menu names even more. Even though we were fixed on Ronnfeldt tea we noticed the signature cocktails. We love that cocktails are designed by the prominent mixed drink of the decade since the hotel opened its doors in 1925. Naturally, you’ll also find famous cocktails in the Esplanade bar as well. Along with a handful of LABV cocktails, mocktails, and spritz distinctions. For those looking for something stronger, rest assured you’ll get your needs met in the world of strong spirits. Then it is also a good idea to taste some local craft. A big portion of the menu belongs to the wine, coming from all over Europe.

Our Tea Selection

Pai Mu Tan

The invigorating fruity and floral aroma of the organic white tea enchanted us immediately. Large leaves were able to give their best due to the loose manner. The natural sweetness was clear with every sip and spoke to us about candied fruit and maracuja. We were also glad of the gentle astringent finish coming from the tannins. Pai Mu Tan tea kept on the gripping charm even for the second brew, so we suggest you enjoy it to the max as well.

Fancy Sencha

Fancy Sencha has a smooth body with gentle bitter-sweet notes. The aroma of the freshly cut grass comes as an introduction into the Japanese realm of tea making. Indeed, steaming the picked leaves improves the final product. Although the vegetal notes come from the tea leaves themselves, the process just intensifies it. Taste on the other hand is quite tart but it comes with a rounded sweetness.

Esplanade Afternoon Tea Bites

Savories

The one with the mildest flavors was the first to go, that goes for the grilled cheese on toast. Roasted full-grain toast bonded with grilled cheese nicely. The pair were accompanied by the avocado mousse in the middle and zingy Asian microgreens on top.

Next one was the smoked salmon on focaccia bread. We loved the generous portion of the herbal curd cheese underneath the salmon and rocket for more textural flavor.

We are always happy when prosciutto is so soft it melts in the mouth. That was the case in our last canape and we loved every bite of it.

Sweets

It is always hard to choose where to start first when you have a bunch of sweet delicacies in front of you. However, we try to start with more neutral and lighter delights, continue with fruity ones and finish with chocolate ones. Every bite is accompanied by tea and our palate is clean for the next bite.

Firstly, we grabbed a nice-looking Choux au craquelin. Perfect choux pastry should have a light, airy, and crisp texture. The exterior should be delicately crisp, while the inside should be hollow with just a slight chew. Here the pastry itself was splendid. To elevate this, the creamy raspberry filling was spot on in the craquelin cream puff. It was also a great match to the pistachio cream that was on the top.

Our taste buds were still rioting from the last bite, but here comes a new – raspberry mousse cup. As expected, the blossom-shaped delicacy tasted floral and fruity at the same time, mostly reminiscent of raspberry and rose.

Both macaron cookies tasted as great as they looked. One was hiding the taste of the blueberry behind the sweet veil, while the other wasn’t straightforward. It only gave off a hint of marzipan. However, the technicalities of the great macaroon were all there.

One could say that cake pops were different just in terms of the chocolate. However, we found toothsome nuts in the one coated with ruby chocolate. The other cake pop was plain red velvet with milk chocolate around it.

The last sweet bite we took at the Esplanade Hotel in Zagreb was a chocolate praline filled with nougat and hazelnuts. Crunchy and yet brittle chocolate filled with lavish nougat cream is all you need for great praline. Simply delicious.

Fruit

What can one say about the fruit for our afternoon tea in Zagreb? Well, given the fact that wintertime is no season for basically anything, we must compliment the chef on making strawberries as tasty as they were. Marinated strawberries were brought to life with no signs of struggle.

Final Thought

We can’t say we didn’t miss scones, because we did. They are an item that connects the past with the future and they taste wonderful doing it. Especially, when they are topped with clotted cream and old-fashioned jam. But we don’t hold missing scones against Esplanade Hotel. We know this is just the beginning of something new they brought to town. Afternoon tea isn’t exactly a big trend in this part of Europe, and keeping scones fresh at all times would be a challenge. However, every bite, the service, and the ambiance were spot on. They can proudly serve their afternoon tea and maybe even help make it a trend in Zagreb!

Esplanade Afternoon Tea Review Card

• 9.5/10
  ATMOSPHERE – 9.5/10
• 9.5/10
  SERVICE – 9.5/10
• 9.3/10
  TEA SELECTION – 9.3/10
• 9.2/10
  PRESENTATION – 9.2/10
• 9/10
  BITES – 9/10
• 9.6/10
  VALUE – 9.6/10

Price and Location

Afternoon tea at Esplanade will cost you about 47 USD. Here is a link to the location so you can pay them a visit.

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About Atlantida Boutique Hotel

Five-star Atlantida hotel is all about feeling good in your skin. This luxury hotel in Rogaska Slatina connects indulgence and healthcare. We loved the open design that connects the stylish indoors with the natural world on the other side of the glass wall. Attention to the pristine environment can also be found in the Atlantida SPA center, which practices the PEGAZ-Mg method. The PEGAZ-Mg method is based on local mineral-rich water, so it is only fair to say you can’t get it anywhere else in the world.

Atlantida Boutique Hotel Wellness & SPA Center

Doors to the pool and sauna, Turkish and Finnish sauna, are open to all guests of the Atlantida Boutique hotel. However, those who are after something special and unique can get that as well. On offer are four different PEGAZ-Mg programs that are tailor-made for every individual. The personalization process for the desired program is made with the help of medical experts and is based on modern methods. In addition to that, you can enjoy body massage or face care with high-quality cosmetic products by Afrodita Professional. By the way, Afrodita Cosmetics is a local company, established in 1970 and proud owner of the ISO 22716 certificate. Let’s not forget to mention the Salt Room, which is the perfect contribution to overall health. Here is our Atlantida Hotel Spa Review if you are interested more in wellness.

Salt Room

We must start with the personal testimony of the positive effect the salt room had on Vivi’s skin. It is quite unbelievable how only 40 minutes in the salt room improved the stubborn rash by up to 70%. No wonder it is so good for the skin because the salt aerosol strongly influences the lymphatic system which helps to remove toxins and other impurities from the body. That is not all, salt therapy strengthens the immune system, and works wonders on the respiratory system, to say the least.

Beauty Treatments

If you want to pay extra attention to your looks, you can explore treatments that include advanced cosmetic devices. The list of treatments is long so it is best to get in touch with your needs and talk to the kind staff at the SPA center to find the best match for you. Besides the overall body care, you can also choose facial care, Mani/Pedi, or depilation.

PEGAZ-Mg Programs

All four different Pegaz-Mg Programs are based on the mineral-rich healing spring water that is local to the Rogaska Slatina. A holistic approach to every program ensures maximum exposure to the world’s richest magnesium water called Donat. The luxury SPA Hotel Slovenia considered the most sought-after opportunity for guests and ended with programs for a woman, a man, a couple, and a detox-oriented treatment. Each program includes doctors’ consultations for personalized treatments. Programs are advised to last at least a week or 10 nights for the maximum effect.

A Few Words About Donat Mineral Water

Donat mineral spring water is pumped from a depth of 260 m to 600 m below the surface. Every single liter contains 1040 mg of magnesium in it, plus other elements that also matter. A whole lot of other minerals, if we are honest. As already stated Donat mineral-rich water has a long history of health miracles and was analyzed for the first time in 1572. However, the local voices praised the miracle water much earlier and the first mention dates back to 1141. Recently, scientists measured the average age of spring water to be about 8000 years old.

Medical Center Rogaska

Just a 3-minute walk from the Atlantida hotel is the Medical Center Rogaska. We can say that over 400 years of tradition make the Medical Center Rogaska the heart of the Slovenian wellness hub. Rogaska Slatina wellness vacation gets only better when you know that under one roof, about 50 doctors specialize in 15 different medical areas. In addition to the unique healing resources, they also use modern medical equipment to ensure the optimal treatment best suited to the individual. Medical Center Rogaska is also home to the mineral-rich Donat where you get a recommended daily dose straight from the source.

Atlantida Boutique Hotel Facilities and Amenities

Atlantida Boutique Hotel review situated in Rogaska Slatina, wouldn’t be complete without the mention of the comforts you can enjoy during your stay. Let’s start with Atlantida’s spacious lobby hall that is a café, reception area, and sitting room all in one. From the lobby, it is easy to access the dining room where you’ll get delicious and healthy breakfast or dinner. Above it, is a Atlantida Bar that extends into the ala cart restaurant. In case you want to use the calories feel free to enjoy well-equipped fitness or have fun at the billiard table.

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Atlantida Hotel Spa Review

Our Room

The modern interior design feels comfortable and draws a sense of buoyancy to the spacious design. For extra light exposure, one can always use the balcony that comes with every room. It was a joy to watch birds in their natural environment from the roofed-up balcony. An unspoiled view of the forest is another bonus of the hotel room. We also loved the bathroom with all the advantages of a five-star hotel luxury.

Food and Beverage

Buffet breakfast in the dining room presented everything our hungry bellies were after. First, we passed the well-stocked healthy corner with different cereals and ready-to-eat fresh fruit. At the end of the healthy corner, we found an array of freshly baked bread, croissants, and other sweet treats, including baked fruit.

Opposite the health station, we were happy to find an array of cold cuts with numerous condiments and pickles. Next, we focused on the cheese section, which consisted of some smoked, soft, and young cheese. Most of all we were happy to see the buckwheat with milk and buckwheat “struklji” or dumpling rolls. All the kudos go for the organic offer and free flow of sparkling wine.

Final Thought

With so much to do in Rogaska Slatina, it is important to get a good night’s sleep and stay hydrated. Luckily in Slovenia, all tap water is safe to drink so spare the plastic water. We can say we certainly had a good time at the Atlantida Hotel. Feeling good started with a warm welcome and this continued throughout our stay. No matter what our questions were, we always got a helpful response. All we can say now is, that we warmly recommend you to choose the Atlantida Boutique Hotel whenever you plan to visit Rogaska Slatina.

Atlantida Boutique Hotel Review Card

• 9/10
  ATMOSPHERE – 9/10
• 9.2/10
  CLEANLINESS – 9.2/10
• 8.7/10
  ROOM – 8.7/10
• 8.5/10
  FACILITIES AND AMENITIES – 8.5/10
• 8.3/10
  FOOD AND BEVERAGE – 8.3/10
• 9.7/10
  SERVICE – 9.7/10
• 9/10
  VALUE – 9/10

Price and Location

Room with breakfast, dinner and unlimited use of the indoor pool and sauna will set you up for about 380 USD. Here is a link to the location for easier navigation.

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