With tears, Chief Sevda remembered from the 28th floor of Millennium for cornmeal with the leeks of her grandmother

A Dream of Stars: Sofia’s New Culinary Destination

Sofia’s culinary scene is poised for a transformation with the arrival of The Gallery Fine Dining Restaurant. Perched on the 28th floor of the Millennium Hotel, this enterprising eatery isn’t just aiming for excellence, it’s gunning for a Michelin star, a coveted accolade that would be a monumental achievement for Bulgarian gastronomy.

Leading this culinary crusade is Chef Sevda Dimitrova, a rising star whose name is already synonymous with innovation and culinary prowess. She made history as the first vegetarian to conquer the internationally celebrated Mastershef cooking competition. Now, she’s set her sights on a new challenge: elevating Bulgarian cuisine to new heights and securing the nation’s first Michelin star.

A Culinary revolution: An Interview with chef Sevda Dimitrova

We caught up with Chef Dimitrova to delve into her vision for The Gallery and her ambitious quest for Michelin glory.

“The Gallery is about creating a truly unique dining experience,” she shares, her eyes gleaming with passion. “It’s about pushing boundaries, exploring new flavors, and showcasing the astounding potential of Bulgarian ingredients.”

How dose Chef Dimitrova’s experience in Spain influence her cooking at The Gallery?

Chef Dimitrova’s time spent honing her skills in Spain, a country renowned for its culinary artistry, has undoubtedly shaped her approach to cooking.

“Spain’s culinary heritage is deeply rooted in tradition and seasonality,” she explains. “I learned so much about respecting the bounty of fresh, local produce and using it to create dishes that are both innovative and deeply flavorful.”

chef Dimitrova, what inspired you to open The Gallery fine Dining Restaurant with the ambitious goal of securing Bulgaria’s first Michelin star?

Chef Dimitrova’s voice intensifies with a hint of passion when she speaks about her ultimate goal, “For me, a Michelin star isn’t just an accolade; it’s a symbol of recognition, not just for myself, but for Bulgarian cuisine as a whole. I believe we have so much to offer the world, and I want to showcase the creativity and talent that exists here.”

Your success on Mastershef was groundbreaking; what lessons did you learn that your applying at The Gallery?

This experience,this journey,taught me so much about resilience,about adapting to pressure,” Chef Dimitrova reflects. “It also taught me the importance of staying true to my vision, no matter the obstacles. those lessons are invaluable in this journey to create something truly special with The Gallery.”

The Gallery focuses on seasonality and sustainability, sourcing locally and practicing “Zero-Waste” principles. What role does ethical sourcing play in your culinary ideology?

“For me, ethical sourcing is non-negotiable,” Chef Dimitrova emphasizes. “I believe in supporting local farmers, respecting the environment, and ensuring that every element of our dishes is sourced with care. It’s not just about good taste; it’s about creating a lasting and responsible culinary ecosystem.”

The menu has some truly memorable names, adding a playful twist to the culinary experience. Is there a story behind these imaginative titles?

The naming of the dishes is carefully considered,” Chef Dimitrova reveals. “Each name is designed to evoke a sense of wonder, to spark curiosity, and to create a playful connection between the dish and the diner.”

What can guests expect from your black box dining experience? What makes it truly unique?

“The black box dining experience is designed to be a journey of finding,” Chef Dimitrova describes with a hint of mystery. “It’s a chance to surrender to the unknown, to trust our culinary artistry, and to be surprised and delighted at every turn. It’s a truly immersive and unforgettable experience.”

with its breathtaking views,innovative cuisine,and dedication to excellence,The Gallery fine Dining Restaurant is poised to become a culinary destinationdefining spot in sofia.

A Taste of tradition: The Gallery Restaurant Celebrates Bulgarian Cuisine

Nestled in the heart of Bulgaria, The Gallery restaurant offers an enchanting culinary journey that blends time-honored traditions with innovative culinary techniques. At the helm of this gastronomic experience is Chef Hristina dimitrova, a culinary artist passionate about showcasing the vibrant flavors of her homeland.

Dimitrova’s culinary philosophy is deeply rooted in her Bulgarian heritage. Born in Nova Zagora, her culinary journey began in Burgas, where she honed her skills. Driven by a desire to elevate Bulgarian cuisine on the world stage, she furthered her expertise in Spain before returning home with a vision to create a restaurant that would capture the essence of Bulgarian gastronomy.

At The Gallery, seasonal ingredients reign supreme. dimitrova prioritizes sourcing local, fresh produce whenever possible, reflecting her commitment to supporting regional farmers and producers. The restaurant embraces a “Zero-Waste Food” philosophy, minimizing waste and maximizing resource utilization. Every ingredient is carefully considered, with even organic waste composted, showcasing a deep dedication to sustainability.

The dining experience at The Gallery transcends the ordinary. Each dish is a work of art, presented with a playful and evocative twist. For instance,”visibly quiet” is a delicate appetizer of salmon trout caviar,while “sharp mind,rude tongue” is a vibrant beetroot salad with apple and chorbadji peppers. this unique approach to naming elevates the dining experience, transforming each meal into a captivating story.

For those seeking a truly unforgettable culinary adventure, The Gallery offers a black box dinner, a three-course experience designed to tantalize taste buds with an element of surprise. Alex Reeds embark on a gastronomic journey, savoring a symphony of flavors and textures, expertly crafted with innovative techniques like lyophilization, ripening of meats and fish, and fermentation.

The Gallery’s intimate ambiance, with its 60-seater capacity, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. An extensive collection of 500 unique wines from around the globe complements the culinary creations, ensuring an exceptional pairing experience. whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply craving an remarkable dining experience, The Gallery promises to leave a lasting impression.

A Culinary Revolution: An Interview with Chef Sevda Dimitrova

Chef Sevda Dimitrova’s dream has taken root in Sofia – The Gallery, a fine-dining restaurant pushing the boundaries of Bulgarian cuisine. Driven by a desire to showcase the “untapped potential” of her homeland’s culinary heritage, Dimitrova aims high, with the ambitious goal of securing Bulgaria’s first michelin star.

“My entire culinary journey, from honing my skills in Bulgaria to my amazing experience in Spain, has culminated in this,” she shares, her passion evident. “I believe in the power of Bulgarian cuisine – its rich heritage and untapped potential. I’m driven by a desire to showcase its incredible flavors on the world stage while pushing the boundaries of what is possible with contemporary techniques.”

Dimitrova’s journey to The Gallery wasn’t a straight path.Her participation in the renowned cooking competition “Mastershef” proved to be a turning point. “Mastershef was a game-changer,” she reveals.”It taught me the importance of discipline, innovation, and fearless experimentation. It also solidified my passion for celebrating both customary flavors and modern presentations.”

These lessons are woven into the very fabric of The Gallery. The menu boasts an evolution of Bulgarian cuisine, respecting tradition while embracing novel techniques and global influences.”At The Gallery, this translates to an evolving menu that respects Bulgarian cuisine while embracing novel techniques and global influences,” Dimitrova explains.

Beyond the artistry of the dishes, ethics and sustainability are paramount at The Gallery. “For me, it’s not just about the taste but also about integrity,” emphasizes Dimitrova. “Locally sourced ingredients bring unparalleled freshness and flavor, reflecting the true character of Bulgarian gastronomy. As for “Zero-Waste”,it’s a commitment we take seriously – every ingredient has a purpose.We compost,we preserve,we utilize everything,minimizing our environmental impact.”

The Gallery’s menu is a playful blend of exploration and tradition, with imaginative names adding a unique twist to the dining experience. “Each dish at The Gallery has a story woven into its name.” Dimitrova invites diners to delve into the narrative behind each creation, further enriching their culinary journey.

A Culinary journey Unveiled: What to Expect at a Black Box Dinner

Imagine surrendering to a symphony of flavors, allowing culinary experts to orchestrate a appetizing adventure for your senses. That’s the essence of a black box dining experience, a journey that transcends the ordinary meal and becomes a captivating exploration of taste and imagination. It’s not just about the food; it’s about the anticipation, the surprise, and the shared discovery.

“It’s a way to engage with our guests, to spark curiosity and create an even deeper connection with the food,” shares an advocate of this unique dining concept.”We aim to make each meal a complete sensory experience – a journey not just for the palate but for the imagination too.”

Stepping into a black box dining setting feels like entering a realm of mystery. With menus hidden, diners relinquish control, embracing the unknown. This surrender allows chefs to showcase their creativity,crafting dishes tailored to surprise and delight. Each plate becomes a treasure, meticulously assembled and designed to tantalize every sense.

More than just a meal, a black box dining experience fosters a sense of community. Alex Reeds gather together, sharing whispers of anticipation, marveling at the unexpected creations, and forging connections through shared culinary adventures.

Embrace the thrill of the unknown, surrender to expert culinary guidance, and embark on a journey of taste and wonder. A black box dining experience promises a meal unlike any other, leaving a lasting impression on your palate and your imagination.

What practices or ingredients in The Gallery’s cuisine do you believe best illustrate your dedication to highlighting Bulgaria’s culinary heritage in a modern context?

A Culinary Revolution: An Interview with Chef Sevda Dimitrova

Chef Sevda Dimitrova’s dream has taken root in Sofia – The Gallery,a fine-dining restaurant pushing the boundaries of Bulgarian cuisine.Driven by a desire to showcase the “untapped potential” of her homeland’s culinary heritage, Dimitrova aims high, with the ambitious goal of securing bulgaria’s frist Michelin star.

“My entire culinary journey, from honing my skills in Bulgaria to my amazing experience in Spain, has culminated in this,” she shares, her passion evident. “I believe in the power of Bulgarian cuisine – its rich heritage and untapped potential. I’m driven by a desire to showcase its amazing flavors on the world stage while pushing the boundaries of what is absolutely possible with contemporary techniques.”

Dimitrova’s journey to The Gallery wasn’t a straight path. Her participation in the renowned cooking competition “Mastershef” proved to be a turning point. “Mastershef was a game-changer,” she reveals. “It taught me the importance of discipline, innovation, and fearless experimentation. It also solidified my passion for celebrating both customary flavors and modern presentations.”

These lessons are woven into the very fabric of The Gallery. The menu boasts an evolution of Bulgarian cuisine, respecting tradition while embracing novel techniques and global influences,” Dimitrova explains.

Beyond the artistry of the dishes, ethics and sustainability are paramount at The Gallery. “For me, it’s not just about the taste but also about integrity,” emphasizes Dimitrova. “Locally sourced ingredients bring unparalleled freshness and flavour, reflecting the true character of Bulgarian gastronomy. As for “Zero-Waste”, it’s a commitment we take seriously – every ingredient has a purpose. We compost, we preserve, we utilize everything, minimizing our environmental impact.”

The Gallery’s menu is a playful blend of exploration and tradition, with imaginative names adding a unique twist to the dining experience.”Each dish at The Gallery has a story woven into its name,” Dimitrova invites diners to delve into the narrative behind each creation, further enriching their culinary journey.

How does the “Black Box” dining experience at The Gallery challenge traditional dining norms and elevate the culinary journey for guests?

“It’s a way to engage with our guests, to spark curiosity and create an even deeper connection with the food,” shares Chef Dimitrova. “We aim to make each meal a complete sensory experience – a journey not just for the palate but for the inventiveness too.

What practices or ingredients in The Gallery’s cuisine do you believe best illustrate your dedication to highlighting Bulgaria’s culinary heritage in a modern context?