Maître Restaurateur Chef Mojmir Marko Šiftar is a prominent figure in Slovenia’s culinary scene. Renowned for an innovative approach and dedication to the art of cooking Chef Mojmir currently leads the kitchen at Pen Klub Restaurant in Ljubljana. He has built up acclaim for a distinctive culinary style and significant contributions to gastronomy.

Chef Mojmir’s culinary journey commenced under the mentorship of Slovenian culinary legend Janez Bratov? at JB Restaurant. Following his graduation from the Biotechnical Education Centre, Chef Mojmir honed his skills at various esteemed establishments, including the Asian fusion restaurant Shambala in Ljubljana and the Aleksander Hotel restaurant in Rogaška Slatina. His career continued to flourish by taking on leadership roles at Tomi Restaurant in Portoro?, the Skipass Hotel Restaurant in Kranjska Gora, and Evergreen Restaurant, before ultimately joining the historic Pen Klub Restaurant.

A native of Prekmurje, Chef Mojmir’s roots are deeply embedded in his culinary creations. He often incorporates traditional ingredients from his homeland, such as the Prekmurje layer cake (Prekmurska gibanica), which holds a special place in his heart. His inventive spirit is evident in dishes like turbot with cracklings by masterfully combining his favourite fish with elements from his native region. Additionally, he has a profound passion for tea, which he seamlessly integrates into his cooking which resulted writing a cookbook titled “44 odtenkov čaja” (44 Shades of Tea), showcasing his creativity beyond the kitchen.

Chef Mojmir’s dedication and talent have been recognised with numerous accolades. He secured first place for Slovenia at the World Hemp Congress and earned two bronze medals at the 2012 Culinary Olympics in Germany. His international acclaim continued with a gold medal at the 2013 International Culinary Cup in Montenegro and a silver medal in Luxembourg the following year. Between 2012 and 2014, he held the prestigious title of Young Chef Ambassador of the World Association of Chefs’ Societies. In 2019, the Gault&Millau Culinary Guide honoured him as a Young Talent, further solidifying his status in the culinary world.

As well as his culinary achievements, Chef Mojmir has shared his expertise as a judge on the Slovenian edition of the cooking show MasterChef, influencing and inspiring aspiring chefs.

His commitment to excellence is encapsulated in his personal mantra: “Always be the best at what you do”. This philosophy drives him to continually innovate and be a trail blazer in his craft. This makes him a pivotal figure in Slovenia’s gastronomic landscape.

Under Chef Mojmir’s leadership, Pen Klub Restaurant has become a beacon of culinary excellence in Ljubljana. He heads up a relatively young team. This brings a fresh impetus of imagination, originality and creativity. What is their main inspiration? Nature and its gifts. Dishes are adapted to match the seasons. Chef Mojmir and his team conjure up unique experiences each individual dish. Service too is excellent as are the wine pairings. Everything is at the highest level.

It has become where culture, art and urbanity meet in fact a paradise for lovers of top cuisine. Pen Klub is surrounded by the Neo-Renaissance palaces of Ljubljana as you make your way to the Tivoli Park.

Patrons are offered a dining experience that marries tradition with innovation. Chef Mojmir’s unwavering dedication to his craft plus his ability to blend diverse flavours firmly establishes him as a leading light in contemporary Slovenian cuisine.

Prepared by a Chaîne News Online Staff Writer
Researched from various sources. E&OE

Pen Klub Restaurant
Tomšičeva ulica 12
1000 Ljubljana

Tel: +386 41 366 249
Web: www.kaval-grouo.sl/pen-klub