Gothenburg , Sweden’s second-largest city, is located on the west coast at the mouth of the Göta älv river . Founded in 1621 by King Gustavus Adolphus , it was strategically designed for trade with Dutch-style canals, many of which remain and can be toured by boat. Residential tower Karlatornet in Gotherberg, Goteborg & Co The city has a strong maritime heritage, with the largest port in the Nordic region. This history is highlighted at the Maritiman Museum , a floating exhibit of historic ships, and the Göteborgs Stadsmuseum , which covers the city’s origins and industrial rise. Avenyn, the main boulevard, leads to Götaplatsen —a cultural hub home to the G othenburg Museum of Art , the City Theatre , and the Concert Hall . The museum houses key Nordic works, including pieces by Edvard Munch and Anders Zorn. The Haga district, one of Gothenburg’s oldest areas, features cobblestone streets, wooden houses, shops, and cafés. A must-visit is Café Husaren , famous for its giant cinnamon buns ( kanelbullar ). Pasi Mammela Botanical Garden, Amjad Sheikh_CCBY 3.0 kansenlejonet by Fred Pettersonic Nature is close by. The Gothenburg Botanical Garden is one of Europe’s largest (and one of my favorites spots to visit), and nearby Slottsskogen Park includes walking trails and a free zoo with Nordic animals like elk and seals. Gothenburg is also a hub for innovation and sustainability, home to Volvo and major universities like the University of Gothenburg and Chalmers . Annual events include the Gothenburg Film Festival —the largest in Scandinavia—and the music festival Way Out West. Gothenburg LUXURY STAY For an unforgettable experience we recommend the Dorsia Hotel & Restaurant , a luxurious and unique hotel with a theatrical Belle Époque style and an impressive art collection from the owner's personal holdings. Gothenburg Culinary Destination For a truly exceptional dining experience, we recommend Koka , a Michelin-starred restaurant that focuses on modern West Swedish gastronomy and a nearly 90% organic, no-waste policy. Next up: Oslo, Norway TRAVEL WITH US Explore our luxury travel guide across Europe below: Hamburg, Germany Berlin, Germany Copenhagen, Denmark Stockhom, Sweden Gothenburg, Sweden Oslo, Norway By Markin Abras, Senior Travel Writer

Oslo , the capital of Norway, sits at the end of the Oslofjord and serves as the country’s political and cultural center. It is Norway’s largest city and a key hub for business, government, and the arts, combining vibrant city life with easy access to nature, a rich cultural scene, and plenty of waterfront areas to explore. Akershus Fortress. Photo by Innovation Norway The city dates back over a thousand years and was originally founded around 1040 AD. It was called Christiania for several centuries before returning to its original name, O slo , in 1925. Throughout its history, Oslo has been shaped by trade, war, and political change. One important site is Akershus Fortress , a medieval castle that has protected the city for centuries. The Viking Ship Museum also draws attention, displaying well-preserved ships and artifacts from Norway’s Viking past. Some of Oslo’s key attractions I suggest include the Oslo Opera House , known for its distinctive design and public roof that visitors can walk on. Vigeland Sculpture Park , with hundreds of sculptures created by Gustav Vigeland , offers insight into human emotions and life stages. The Nobel Peace Center highlights the city’s connection to the Nobel Peace Prize and Norway’s role in international diplomacy. Nature is never far in Oslo . The Oslofjord provides opportunities for boat trips and waterfront walks, while nearby forests and hills offer trails for hiking and skiing. Holmenkollen Ski Jump is both a sports venue and a lookout point with views over the city and fjord. Outdoor activities like skiing in winter and hiking in summer are popular for locals and tourists alike. Photo by Kasia, Unsplash Photo by Phil Aicken, Unsplash Photo by Arvid Malde, Unsplash Oslo Botanical GardenInnovation Norway Oslo is known for its commitment to sustainability, investing in clean public transport, cycling infrastructure, and renewable energy to reduce emissions and protect nature. These efforts help Oslo rank high in global happiness and quality of life, making it a great place to visit and live. Oslo LUXURY STAY For an unforgettable experience we recommend the Karl Johan Hotel , a historic boutique property in the center of Oslo that combines original character with simple, modern design. Also, consider the Sommerro Hotel , an Art Deco hotel with a unique rooftop pool and Norway's largest preservation project. Oslo Culinary Destination For an unforgettable experience we recommend TAK Oslo , a rooftop restaurant that blends Nordic and Japanese cuisines and offers stunning views over the city. We also suggest Restaurant Kontrast , a two-Michelin-star restaurant that has also earned a Green Star for its outstanding commitment to sustainability. TRAVEL WITH US Explore our luxury travel guide across Europe below: Hamburg, Germany Berlin, Germany Copenhagen, Denmark Stockhom, Sweden Gothenburg, Sweden Oslo, Norway By Markin Abras, Senior Travel Writer

Located in the heart of Hamburg, the Steigenberger Hotel offers a blend of traditional Hanseatic architecture and modern comfort, with scenic views of the Alsterfleet . Just a short walk from key attractions like the historic city hall, Speicherstadt , and HafenCity , this luxury hotel features 235 well-appointed rooms and suites equipped. Guests can enjoy international cuisine at two on-site restaurants, start their day with a rich breakfast buffet, and unwind in the fitness and sauna area on the 5th floor, which includes a steam bath, sauna, and relaxation room. LOCATION Steigenberger Hotel Hamburg boasts a central and convenient location in the heart of the city, situated directly on the historic Fleets —Hamburg’s network of canals—and within walking distance of the UNESCO World Heritage Speicherstadt (warehouse district) and the modern HafenCity development, home to the iconic Elbphilharmonie concert hall. Its close proximity to shopping streets like Mönckebergstraße and Neuer Wall, as well as cultural institutions and public transport hubs, makes it an ideal base for both business and leisure travelers. ACCOMMODATIONS Steigenberger Hotel Hamburg offers 235 rooms and suites, ranging from Standard and Superior to Deluxe and the exclusive Presidential Suite . Each room provides views overlooking either the Fleetmarkt or the Alsterfleet , placing guests in the heart of the city between the Alster and Elbe rivers . Notably, for business travelers, the hotel features ten meeting rooms with natural daylight, accommodating up to 300 guests, and offers a sustainable Green Meeting concept with hybrid meeting capabilities, ensuring a versatile and comfortable stay for both leisure and work. DINING Steigenberger Hotel Hamburg offers a dining experience starting with Restaurant am Fleet , where guests enjoy a breakfast buffet in a bright, waterfront setting overlooking the Alsterfleet . The floor-to-ceiling windows and warm lighting create a comfortable atmosphere, perfect for starting the day. For lunch and dinner, Stadthaus Restaurant & Bar serves creative fusion cuisine focused on open-flame cooking. The menu features regional and seasonal flavors with a “Taste the Heat!” style. Guests can relax on the terrace or at the bar, enjoying a varied drinks menu in a space that blends elegance with industrial design. AMENITIES The Steigenberger Hotel Hamburg offers a fitness and wellness area featuring modern Technogym equipment with stunning views of the Hamburg skyline. Guests can relax in the sauna area, which includes a steam bath and a 90°C block sauna, followed by time in the relaxation room. The fitness area is open 24 hours daily, while the sauna has specific evening hours varying by season. Spa and fitness access is allowed only for guests aged 16 and under if accompanied by parents, and facilities are not barrier-free. Steigenberger Hotel Hamburg Heiligengeistbrücke 4 20459 Hamburg, Germany +49 40 368060 hrewards.com/en/steigenberger-hotel-hamburg By Markin Abras, Photos/Steigenberger Hotel Hamburg

Set on the banks of Hamburg’s picturesque Outer Alster Lake , Le Méridien Hamburg blends modern sophistication with classic European elegance. The hotel’s design harmonizes sleek contemporary lines with timeless accents—think light wood floors, curated artwork, and modern furnishings that evoke a cosmopolitan spirit. Light-filled interiors and panoramic lake views create an inviting atmosphere throughout. The property is also home to HERITAGE Restaurant , where modern-international cuisine is served against the backdrop of stunning Alster Lake vistas. In addition to its exceptional accommodations and dining, Le Méridien Hamburg is highly regarded as a premier venue for events, featuring 15 versatile meeting rooms equipped to host a wide range of gatherings. LOCATION Situated directly on the banks of Lake Alster , Le Méridien Hamburg offers a prime waterfront setting. This central location provides guests with picturesque views and immediate access to the serene pathways along the lake, popular for walking, jogging, and boat tours. The hotel’s position ensures both tranquility and convenience, including top Hamburg attractions. Notably, guests receive complimentary access to the Deichtorhallen art center through the hotel’s Unlock Art program . ACCOMMODATIONS Le Méridien Hamburg features 275 guest rooms and 14 suites, each designed to offer a contemporary, luxurious experience. Among the standout accommodations is the Prestige Lake Suite , which offers 113 square meters of space inspired by Hanseatic tradition. Guests are welcomed by views of the Alster Lake, visible from the open-plan living and dining area as well as the bedroom. A marble-inspired bathroom adds a refined touch, featuring quality finishes and lake vistas. For added convenience, the suite includes a separate WC and a private balcony—ideal for enjoying breakfast or fresh air. Expanding the range of options, other lake-facing suites—including the Lake Suite , Panorama Lake Suite , and Duplex Lake Suite —cater to a variety of needs and preferences. These suites offer layouts ranging from 45 to 74 square meters and include thoughtful features such as panoramic windows, Victorian-style bathrooms, mobile bars, and sofa beds. Some can be connected to accommodate up to six guests, blending comfort with direct access to Hamburg’s distinctive waterfront charm. DINING HERITAGE Restaurant and Bar , located on the 9th floor, offers modern international cuisine complemented by floor-to-ceiling glass walls that showcase stunning views of Lake Alster . The menu features a refined selection of dishes, including fresh oysters, seafood, vegan specialties, and premium dry-aged meats, complemented by generous sides and desserts. Guests can enjoy thoughtfully crafted starters, mains, and sharing plates, alongside a curated choice of coffees, digestifs, and fine wines, all emphasizing quality ingredients and diverse dietary options. Don’t miss a chance to enjoy the hotel’s rooftop bar, which offers breathtaking views of the Alster and the gorgeous sunsets! AMENITIES Le Méridien Hamburg offers a well-equipped fitness center with modern exercise machines and free weights. For relaxation, guests can enjoy the heated indoor swimming pool and elegantly designed lounge areas. To rejuvenate body and mind, Le SPA Hamburg provides a tranquil retreat inspired by European spa traditions, featuring a sauna, steam bath, and expertly crafted treatments. Le Méridien Hamburg An der Alster 52 20099 Hamburg, Germany marriott.com/en-us/hotels/hammd-le-meridien-hamburg/overview By Markin Abras, Photos/Le Méridien Hamburg

Karl Johan Hotel is a historic boutique property in the center of Oslo, located right on Karl Johans gate . The hotel has been welcoming guests since 1874 and combines its original character with a simple, modern design. A glass-enclosed elevator beside the front desk is one of its small but distinctive features. The hotel was fully renovated in 2019 and is Green Key-certified, with 157 rooms spread across 12 categories. The hotel was originally run by the Larsen Sisters, who welcomed guests with heartfelt hospitality – even caring for those who couldn’t pay. That warm spirit still lives on today, felt the moment you walk through the door. Over the years, it’s been a front-row seat to Norwegian history, from royal weddings and state visits to the beloved National Day celebrations, many unfolding just outside its doors on the city’s most famous street. From here, you can stroll to the National Theatre , Oslo Opera House , and the Aker Brygge waterfront. Right across the street is Studenterlunden park, a favorite meeting spot for locals and visitors alike. It’s home to the Henrik Wergeland and Camilla Collett statues, colorful flower beds, and plenty of benches for enjoying ACCOMMODATIONS Karl Johan Hotel has 157 rooms spread across what were once three historic apartment buildings. After a full renovation in 2019, the rooms now mix the charm of the old town with a clean, modern look. Think tall ceilings, big windows, and a layout that feels open and inviting. There’s something for every kind of stay here – from the compact “Cosy Small” rooms, perfect for a short trip, to “Standard Double” and “Superior Double” options, plus larger spaces like the “Junior Suite” and the “Suite with City View.” Bathrooms have walk-in showers, while the higher categories give you more space and, in some cases, beautiful views over Karl Johans gate and the Parliament building . You’ll also notice touches of the building’s history throughout – like the winding staircase or stained-glass windows. DINING Karl Johan Hotel offers a complimentary breakfast buffet served daily in a bright, naturally lit atrium. The buffet is generous, featuring a tasty mix of hot and cold dishes alongside fresh, healthy options. While the hotel does not have a full-service restaurant for lunch or dinner, Restaurant Ekman —located in the heart of the hotel—serves as a gathering place for conference and party groups. The space is flexible and well-suited for groups of all sizes, making it an ideal spot for events with food, drinks, entertainment, and a bar. AMENITIES Some of my favorite places to spend time at Karl Johan Hotel include the mezzanine, which looks right out over Karl Johans gate – a perfect spot to enjoy a coffee and watch the city go by. If you like to keep up with your workouts, there’s a spacious fitness room waiting for you. The reception is open 24 hours, so there’s always someone on hand to help, whether you’re checking in late or need a local tip. For business or events, the hotel has a conference hall that seats up to 40 people in a classroom setup, along with four smaller meeting rooms. And when it’s time to unwind, the lounge with its cozy gas fireplace is the perfect place to end the day. Karl Johan Hotel Karl Johans gate 33 0162 Oslo, Norway +47 2316-1700 karljohanhotel.com By Markin Abras, Photos/Karl Johan Hotel

Located in the charming neighborhood of Landala , near the center of Gothenburg, Koka Restaurant is a Michelin-starred destination offering a refined yet relaxed dining experience rooted in modern West Swedish gastronomy. The space itself is a study in contrast and harmony—Nordic minimalism meets historic detail. Light wood-paneled walls and clean lines define the interiors, while an ornate 19th-century glass ceiling lends an unexpected touch of elegance. Koka’s food philosophy centers around clarity and simplicity—each dish is built on the bold expression of just a few high-quality ingredients. The menus lean plant-forward, especially in spring and summer, but celebrate the best of the local landscape year-round. Meat is used sparingly, with a strong preference for sustainable seafood from nearby waters and wild game from local hunters. The restaurant’s commitment to the environment is evident in every aspect, from its nearly 90% organic sourcing to its strict no-waste policy. Seasonality is key at Koka, and the menus shift regularly to reflect what’s freshest. You can choose three tasting menus of varying lengths. Menu KOKA is the most elaborate, featuring seven courses that might include dishes like Hamachi with sorrel and cucumber, scallop with peas and miso, or halibut with mussels and chanterelles. The Farmer’s Menu offers a slightly shorter five-course option, while Tonight’s Menu , available on weekdays and during early weekend seatings, offers a four-course version for a quicker but still immersive experience. All menus begin with sourdough bread and churned butter and end with a sweet bite of toffee. Wine pairings are carefully curated in collaboration with small-scale European winemakers who practice organic or biodynamic farming. Koka Viktoriagatan 12 411 25 Gothenburg, Sweden +46 31 701 7979 restaurangkoka.se/en/restaurant-koka By Markin Abras, Photos/Koka

If you’re in Oslo and want to experience top-tier Nordic cuisine, Kontrast is a must-visit. Located in the vibrant Vulkan neighborhood near the Akerselva river and just a short walk from Central Station, this Michelin two-star restaurant has earned both critical acclaim and a Green Star for its outstanding commitment to sustainability. Chef Mikael Svensson , originally from Skåne, Sweden, leads the kitchen with a vision shaped by his experience in some of Europe’s finest restaurants, including Spain’s three-Michelin-starred Martin Berasategui and Quique Dacosta . Since opening Kontrast in 2013, Mikael has built a reputation for pushing boundaries through his focus on hyper-seasonal, local, wild, and organic ingredients — nearly all sourced from within Norway. The kitchen works closely with small-scale producers, emphasizing animal welfare, soil health, and marine conservation. They receive whole animals and freshly caught seafood daily, butchering and preparing everything in-house to minimize waste. What makes Kontrast unique is its ever-evolving menu that reflects not only the changing seasons but also the Norwegian climate. To prepare for long winters, Mikael’s team employs traditional and modern preservation techniques, creating ferments, pickles, and vinegars that add depth to the dishes year-round. Rooftop-grown, bee-friendly herbs also find their way onto plates, all within a setting that’s thoughtfully designed to focus attention on the food and the open kitchen, where the chefs’ precise choreography is part of the experience. The space at Kontrast is modern and sleek, yet warm and welcoming. Clean lines and raw architectural elements create a contemporary feel, while soft lighting, tactile finishes, and an exposed ceiling add a subtle industrial touch. The set menu at Kontrast invites diners to explore Nordic flavors through a contemporary lens, changing constantly based on what local farmers and producers offer. While the restaurant accommodates dietary restrictions, vegan and milk-protein-free menus aren’t available. To complement the seasonal dishes, Kontrast offers carefully crafted wine pairings—including classic, premium, and non-alcoholic options—that enhance the flavors of the meal. For more intimate gatherings, the restaurant offers private dining rooms for groups ranging from four to sixteen guests, with customized menu options. Restaurant Kontrast Maridalsveien 15a, 0175 Oslo, Norway +47 21 60 01 01 www.restaurant-kontrast.no By Markin Abras, Photos/Restaurant Kontrast

Located atop Sommerro, TAK Oslo is a vibrant rooftop restaurant by award-winning chef Frida Ronge , blending seasonal Norwegian produce with the precision and elegance of Japanese cuisine. Sister to TAK Stockholm , it offers a menu where treasures like Porsangerfjord king crab meet delicate sashimi, tempura, and miso-infused creations—perfect for adventurous palates and lovers of refined comfort. With sweeping views over the Oslofjord and Solli below, the Rooftop Terrace becomes a lively hub in fair weather, complete with DJs, sharing plates, and cocktails. For guests staying at the hotel, the experience is elevated further with access to Oslo’s only year-round rooftop pool. Inside, the restaurant’s sleek, contemporary design mirrors its culinary philosophy—clean lines, natural materials, and warm lighting set the stage for an intimate yet energetic dining experience. Whether you’re here for a multi-course chef’s selection or a few dishes to share, TAK Oslo turns each visit into a celebration of Nordic-Japanese harmony. TAK Oslo Located at Sommerro Sommerrogata 1, 0255 Oslo, Norway +47 21 40 49 40 sommerrohouse.com/restaurants/tak-oslo By Markin Abras, Photos/TAK, Oslo

Located in Frogner , a historic neighborhood in Oslo’s West End, Sommerro is a distinctive Art Deco hotel that opened in September 2022. The iconic building in which the hotel is set was constructed over a 13-year period, from 1917 to 1930, by Norwegian architects Andreas Bjercke and Georg Eliassen , creators of some of Oslo’s most recognizable buildings. It first opened its doors as the headquarters for Oslo Lysverker , the city’s electrical company. The hotel’s renovation is Norway’s largest preservation project to date, blending the original architectural character with contemporary design while respecting the local cultural heritage. The doors to Restaurant Ekman , set beneath a beautiful chandelier and embraced by two semi-circular staircases, are an impressively dramatic architectural feature. Sommerro sits in a prime location just behind the Royal Palace and within a short walking distance of Nationaltheatret station, which offers direct airport express train access. Operated independently by Nordic Hotels & Resorts , the hotel emphasizes sustainable practices and eco-conscious experiences that reflect Oslo’s reputation as a ‘happy and healthy’ city. Don’t miss the chance to explore the Frogner district, known for its charming townhouses, 19th-century apartment buildings, and a wide selection of restaurants, galleries, and boutique shops. ACCOMMODATIONS At Sommerro Hotel, you’ll find 242 guest rooms, including 56 residences that blend Norwegian functionalism with Art Deco touches. The design draws from Norwegian artist Gerhard Munthe ’s paintings, with custom furnishings like simple chandeliers, checkerboard headboards, and cabinets with marquetry. Curated artwork throughout the hotel reflects its history, connecting past and present. Room options range from “Twin Alcove” and “Standard Double” to “Superior King,” “Deluxe,” “Junior Suite,” and the “Heritage Suite.” Each room offers a comfortable retreat with oak parquet floors, hand-knotted rugs, and bathrooms. Higher-category rooms and suites provide extra space, separate living areas, and sometimes terraces or hot tubs, many with views of the city or neighborhood. Guests also enjoy stocked mini-bars, an insider’s guide to the area, and access to the rooftop pool, gym, and wellness spaces. Nearby Villa Inkognito , an 11-suite retreat from the 1870s, opens via private entrance or footbridge. It features living areas, antiques, original artwork, and an outdoor space, available for full rental starting March 2023. DINING Sommerro offers several restaurants and bars for guests and locals, each with its own vibe. The buffet breakfast is served in Ekspedisjonshallen , a dramatic and spacious all-day dining room featuring an original wall fresco by Norwegian artist Per Krohg . It was one of my all-time favorite breakfasts and is considered by many to be Oslo’s best breakfast spot. The venue, which truly feels like a Hollywood movie set, also hosts weekly events with emerging artists and DJs. There’s also TAK Oslo , serving a refined Nordic-Japanese dining experience with breathtaking views (see special coverage on the next page). To Søstre offers afternoon tea, champagne and oysters, along with classical concerts. Named after the building’s original project by architects Bjercke & Eliassen, it features lush greenery, abundant natural light, and rabbit-print upholstery inspired by Gerhard Munthe. Barramon brings Basque tapas and wine, while Plah , led by Norway’s “Best Thai Chef” Terje Ommundsen, has also relocated here. AMENITIES Sommerro emphasizes wellness and social experiences. Its 1,400 m² wellness floor, Vestkantbadet , features a restored 1932 public bath, indoor pool, Finnish and infrared saunas, a cold plunge pool, and treatment rooms for massages and facials. The 400 m² gym offers state-of-the-art equipment and personal trainers. The hotel also has the city’s first rooftop pool, sauna, and terrace, adding a unique outdoor wellness element. Beyond wellness, Sommerro provides many spaces to relax and socialize, including a small private cinema with weekly screenings, an intimate library, a gilded club stage, and multiple historic meeting and event rooms. With seven restaurants and three bars, it caters to various tastes and occasions. Nearby, Villa Inkognito —an 11-room villa—is available for guests seeking extra privacy. Additional amenities include a 24-hour front desk, laundry services, and a commitment to sustainability, ensuring a complete guest experience. Sommerro Hotel Sommerrogata 1 0255 Oslo, Norway +47 2140-4900 www.sommerrohouse.com By Markin Abras, Photos/Sommerro Hotel

Hotel Danmark sits in the center of Copenhagen’s Cultural District, between City Hall Square and the National Museum , just steps from Tivoli Gardens , Europe’s oldest amusement park. It’s also a short walk from Strøget, the city’s main shopping street. The hotel’s dual-building design blends two eras. The white building from 1791, once home to a royal confectioner, is a listed heritage site. Its baroque façade contrasts with the sleek green building from 1969, updated in 2017 with thousands of racing-green tiles for a bold, modern look. Inside, the stylish lobby features contemporary sofas, a long communal table for work or socializing, and a fully stocked bar. Guests can enjoy a complimentary happy hour and mingle in this warm, inviting space. ACCOMMODATIONS Hotel Danmark offers 89 rooms and suites that balance Nordic design with artistic flair. Each room is styled in soft whites and greens, depending on its location in the historic or modern wing, with plush textures, velvet-finish walls, and custom-made furniture. Design details like specially designed lamps from RUBN Lightin g and classic CH33 chairs by Hans J. Wegner give each room a curated, high-design feel. Bathrooms are outfitted with REN Clean Skincare products which I loved. You can choose from room categories ranging from cozy single rooms to spacious three-bedroom suites, all of which combine functionality with style. DINING The hotel’s main dining venue, Tivolihallen , is located on the corner of the property and serves classic Danish cuisine, including open-faced sandwiches (smørrebrød) and other hearty favorites. It offers both guests and locals a taste of traditional fare in a charming setting, and shares an outdoor courtyard with the hotel. Breakfast is served in the Vineyard , a cozy, light-filled space with green accents. I especially enjoyed the chia pudding, fresh bread selection, and variety of juices. Also worth noting: the daily Wine Hour —a complimentary happy hour serving wine only—and the Nightcap Hour , when guests are invited to enjoy complimentary wine and spirits. AMENITIES Hotel Danmark is as much a lifestyle space as it is a hotel. Its rooftop terrace, one of the few public rooftops in the district, offers panoramic views of Copenhagen’s skyline. Weather permitting, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy drinks at sunset. The hotel also features a fitness room and elegant meeting spaces for business needs, from work sessions to formal meetings. Hotel Danmark Vester Voldgade 89 1552 Copenhagen, Denmark +45 3311 4806 www.brochner-hotels.com/hotel-danmark By Markin Abras, Photos/Hotel Danmark

The Ritz-Carlton, Berlin commands a striking presence at Potsdamer Platz , in the heart of the city and just moments from the Brandenburg Gate and Tiergarten . Once a historic crossroads and later a symbol of Berlin’s post-war division, Potsdamer Platz has evolved into a dynamic center of culture, commerce, and architecture—home to restaurants, galleries, upscale shopping, and the hotel itself. Designed by Hilmer & Sattler and Albrecht , the building channels classic Art Deco with a light sandstone façade, strong vertical lines, and elegant symmetry, recalling the sophistication of 1920s grand hotels—an aesthetic carried throughout the interiors. A 2019 redesign by G.A. Design and Carbone Interior Design AG amplifies this spirit, crafting a lavish, cinematic atmosphere. Bold geometry, marble floors, circular columns, rich textures, and polished brass accents evoke timeless elegance with theatrical flair. The grand lobby makes a lasting impression with its sweeping staircase, glittering chandeliers, and intricate detailing that pays homage to Berlin’s golden era of film and culture. ACCOMMODATIONS The 303 rooms and suites at The Ritz-Carlton, Berlin blend exquisite Art Deco design with contemporary touches and hand-selected furnishings that evoke Berlin’s glamorous golden era. Marble bathrooms with heated floors, Dyptique amenities, plush robes, customizable pillow menus, and feather beds ensure exceptional comfort. Suites offer spacious privacy, panoramic Potsdamer Platz views, and access to the exclusive Club Lounge , a quiet retreat with personalized service. For an elevated stay, the Ritz-Carlton Penthouse , the hotel’s largest suite at 3,067 sq ft (285 sqm), features three separate bedrooms, a spacious living and dining area, and dining for eight. The Ritz-Carlton Presidential Suite spans 2,206 sq ft (205 sqm) with two bedrooms, a workout area, top-level security, separate living and dining spaces, and views of Potsdamer Platz and Berlin’s lush Tiergarten park . The Carlton Club Suite offers a serene, art-filled retreat. All include exclusive Club Lounge access and personalized service. DINING At The Ritz-Carlton, Berlin , dining is a refined experience blending tradition with innovation. The Curtain Club offers inventive cocktails inspired by the ‘Roaring Twenties’, paired with live music on select evenings. For a modern take on German cuisine, POTS delivers sophisticated dishes that balance traditional flavors with creative techniques in a warm, inviting setting. During the summer, the Secret Champagne Garden invites you to enjoy champagne and crafted cocktails al fresco in a secluded urban oasis. Meanwhile, The Lounge provides an elegant setting to savor light meals, cocktails, and a celebrated afternoon tea ceremony featuring seasonal and unique tea blends. AMENITIES At The Ritz-Carlton, Berlin , you’ll enjoy top-tier amenities designed for your comfort, including a fully equipped wellness center, fitness room, indoor pool, sauna, steam room, and an exclusive Club Lounge for Club-level guests with personalized service and refined dining. Family- and pet-friendly, the hotel welcomes dogs under 45 lb (20 kg) for a fee and provides electric vehicle charging. You’ll also have 24-hour room service, daily housekeeping with turndown, a gift shop, convenience store, same-day dry cleaning, kitchenettes in select rooms, and more. For business and events, the hotel features nine versatile event rooms, including the city’s largest luxury ballroom with over 12,600 square feet of elegant space. The Ritz-Carlton, Berlin Potsdamer Platz 3, 10785 Berlin, Germany +49 30 337777 ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/berzt-the-ritz-carlton-berlin By Markin Abras, Photos/The Ritz-Carlton, Berlin

Udtryk , which means “Expression” in Danish, is the latest culinary venture from Chef Edward Lee . Born in Hong Kong and shaped by diverse cultural influences, Lee’s career has taken him through some of Europe’s top Michelin-starred kitchens. Situated in a charming and somewhat secluded courtyard on Teglgårdstræde in Copenhagen, Udtryk received its first Michelin star shortly after opening, making it the fastest debut star awarded in Denmark’s history. The restaurant delivers an omakase-style dining experience, where Edward personally curates a highly individualized tasting menu. Dishes are served one at a time, focusing on refined technique, presentation, and an exceptional emphasis on freshness. Ingredients are sourced daily, with fish caught the same morning and herbs and produce gathered just hours before they reach the plate. Udtryk’s menu beautifully blends Japanese, Nordic, and French culinary traditions into an elegant progression of seafood, seasonal vegetables, and refined dishes such as Wagyu and caviar. Signature highlights include Bluefin Tuna Otoro with Sea Urchin and Buddha’s Hand Koshu & Sudachi, Mangholm Garden Peas with Cucumber and Whipped Tofu, Monaka with Danish Mackerel and Almond, French Toast with Wagyu, and Turbot seasoned with 10-year-aged Shaoxing wine and aged tangerine peel from Xinhui, southern China. The tasting concludes with palate cleansers and artfully crafted desserts featuring lychee, yuzu, rhubarb, and truffle. To complement the menu, Udtryk offers an eight-glass wine pairing featuring unexpected selections from around the world, designed to enhance each course. Worth noting, Udtryk offers vegetarian and pescetarian options. Udtryk Teglgårdstræde 8A 1452 Copenhagen, Denmark +45 30 20 79 06 www.restaurantudtryk.dk By Markin Abras, Photos/Mads Sommer Ankerlund