A culinary journey through the world of art. Specialists and representatives of the international Dorotheum offices reveal their favourite museum cafés and restaurants.
VIENNA
MARIANNE HUS SL-HÖRMANN SPECIALIST FOR 19TH CENTURY PAINTINGS AND MODERN ART
The Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna is not just a place for art, it is itself a work of art, unique in the world. Sitting under the golden dome, enjoying a cup of coffee and the occasional slice of cake, letting your gaze sweep through this magnificent room with its marble columns, ceiling frescoes, golden stucco work and grotesques is pure relaxation for the eyes and mind. Imperial beauty for everyone!
PRAG
HEAD OF DOROTHEUM PRAGUE AND SPECIALIST FOR 19TH CENTURY PAINTINGS
‘8smička’ is an incredible place for me. Formerly a factory, now a non-commercial high-end gallery where you first have to admire the incredible cakes and other confectionery in the café before you buy your tickets for the museum. A great combination of philanthropy and love of the confectionery trade, always full, always cozy, always delicious. Unique.
PARIS
JOËLLE THOMAS, DOROTHEUM REPRESENTATIVE IN PARIS
The Musée Jacquemart-André is a hidden oasis in Paris. Originally a private collection, the museum houses masterpieces from the Italian Renaissance, great Flemish masters and French art from the 18th century. The 19th century hôtel particulier forms a perfect ensemble with ‘La Nélie’. The café completes the harmonious atmosphere: a spacious terrace with a view of the garden, plus the finest patisserie from some of the best pastry chefs in Paris. For me, it’s the perfect place for a little break – preferably over brunch!
BRUSSELS
HONORINE DʹURSEL, HEAD OF DOROTHEUM BRUSSELS
The Café du Palais des Beaux-Arts in Brussels is a place where art and conviviality meet. Located within this temple of Brussels culture, built by famous Belgian architect Victor Horta, it offers the perfect break after immersing oneself in exhibitions or a performance. The refined and artistic ambiance of the ‘Café Victor’, with its elegant décor and large windows, echoes the creative atmosphere of the Palais. It’s a spot where one can enjoy a coffee while being surrounded by the artistic spirit that defines this iconic venue.
ROME
MARIA CRISTINA PAOLUZZI, HEAD OF DOROTHEUM ROME
My favorite café at the moment is the recently reopened ‘Serre Barberini’, an impressive 19th century greenhouse which has been meticulously restored. This hidden gem is located in Palazzo Barberini, not far from the Gallerie Nazionali di Arte Antica, and overlooks a beautiful garden which offers a perfect blend of history, art and nature. You can currently admire an extraordinary Caravaggio exhibition at Palazzo Barberini.
HAMBURG
LEONIE ABEL, HEAD OF DOROTHEUM HAMBURG
At the ‘Berliner Bahnhof’, in the middle of the Deichtorhallen art centre, you can enjoy Japanese-European fusion cuisine and a coffee – in the sun on a good day. I particularly like the history and architecture of the premises of the former Hamburg Berliner Bahnhof. It’s well worth a visit!
