On December 5th, chefs Vasilis Mouratidis and Giannis Panagiotidis will present a night of Macedonian gastronomy.
Ark restaurant is offering another opportunity to explore Greece through its rich flavors and aromas. Chef’s Diary invites you to embark on a culinary journey across the country, stopping at the Stars of Glyfada after visiting Volos, Crete, and Iraklia. This time, Thessaloniki and Halkidiki take center stage.
Ark’s executive chef, Giannis Baxevanis, will hand over the reins of the kitchen—knives, pots, and all—not to one but two talented colleagues with shared roots yet distinct approaches to modern Greek cuisine. Vasilis Mouratidis and Giannis Panagiotidis will lead the Ark brigade, crafting a fine dining menu inspired by the rich lands of Macedonia.
A Duo of Culinary Visionaries
Vasilis Mouratidis, executive chef at the 5-star Danai Beach Resort in Halkidiki and co-owner of Moldee Bar Restaurant in Thessaloniki, follows a philosophy of blending diverse ingredients, flavors, and techniques without limits or prejudices. On Thursday, December 5th, he will challenge the palate and mind with dishes that transform premium ingredients into unexpected culinary creations.
Giannis Panagiotidis, executive chef at the 5-star Dion Palace Resort on the Olympic Riviera, has carved his path in the culinary world while staying true to his roots in Thessaloniki. He has passed on his extensive knowledge and experience to the next generation of chefs for years while continuously evolving alongside them. With respect for high-quality ingredients, he comes to Ark to offer guests a learning experience through taste.
Ark will host the renowned and beloved gastronomic scene of Thessaloniki for one night only in a surprise menu. This culinary dialogue between Greece’s most iconic coastal urban fronts—the Thermaic Gulf and the Athenian Riviera—will unfold on Thursday, December 5th, at the Stars of Glyfada, one of the city’s most beautiful destinations.
Chef’s Diary: A Vision for the Next Generation
Chef’s Diary goes beyond creating a unique menu. Its mission is to inform and inspire future generations about the value of Mediterranean cuisine and Greek gastronomy. The day after the dinner, local schoolchildren will visit Ark to meet the guest chefs and Ark’s culinary team. Most importantly, they will cook one of the dishes from the menu, gaining valuable insights.
These initiatives are a priority for chef Giannis Baxevanis, who, along with his guests, aims to teach children about the Slow Food philosophy, fostering a love for Greek gastronomy and supporting local producers.
Chef’s Diary Schedule
The final event for 2024 in the Chef’s Diary series is scheduled for December 12th, 2024, with Michalis Martha from Kalymnos.
