News

5 minute chat with Jiří Štift

Jiří Štift has worked for Mandarin Oriental, Prague since 2009 as Executive Chef of the hotel’s Essensia restaurant. Essensia was eventually closed after eight years, and the place was redesigned to introduce a new and exciting culinary concept in April 2015 – SPICES Restaurant and Bar. Štift and his team aimed to create a concept that would attract both local and international clientele. The new restaurant’s culinary concept therefore focuses on authentic regional Asian specialties inspired by their travels through Asia, and traditional “street food”. Štift took part in the development of the interior design as well as tableware details that highlight the essence of food sharing.

The menu at your newly opened Spices Restaurant and Bar is divided into three regions. What do they have in common and what makes them different?

A: The division is based on geography and the actual differences between the regional cuisines. The differences between the cuisines are in terms of the climate, local produce and culture. Some ingredients are common to all three regions, for example, rice and ginger. The main difference lies in the preparation, the cooking process and the taste of the final dish and of course the spices used. 

Which Asian cuisine is the spiciest?              

A: Thai, Sri Lankan and Szechuan cuisines are among the spiciest. 

Are the dishes at Spices only inspired by Asia, or are they actually typical of each region?

A: We use authentic Asian recipes, and all the ingredients that go into our dishes are genuine and made by us. To make typical Indian dishes, we use a tandoori oven, but we also take advantage of modern culinary processes that add our signature to all of the dishes. 

You have travelled the world. What place have you enjoyed the most? What regional/national cuisine has surprised you the most? Do you see yourself living somewhere else?

A: I love travelling, and my favorite destinations are the ones with good food: Italy in Europe, Thailand in Asia and Brazil in South America.

I can imagine living abroad for some time but not forever, as I would miss the Czech Republic so much.  

Do you actually cook at home for your family? If yes, what do you like to cook?

A: Of course, I cook at home for my family! First, I enjoy it and second, I am not forced to participate in boring household chores such as cleaning! 

Where do you see yourself in ten years?

A: I would like to have a small restaurant somewhere in the mountains and cook dishes using locally farmed produce. 

What are your plans for the summer?

A: Find a clever way how to divide my time between my family and my job.