BISTRO CARAMELLO
LOCATION: Domnesti, Ilfov County, Romania
LOCATION: Sinaia, Prahova County, Romania
YEAR: 2024
AREA: 108 sqm
STATUS: Finalised
A hundred years ago, Pelias Kalimtzakis, a distinguished Cretan pastry chef, and his French wife, Aline, chose the picturesque town of Sinaia as their new home. There, they inaugurated a multifaceted establishment that seamlessly operated as a restaurant, café, and confectionery. The locale swiftly gained renown, becoming a favored haunt for Bucharest's elite and international visitors alike.
The couple’s sociable son, an actor by profession, further elevated the establishment's prestige by attracting illustrious figures such as Tony Bulandra, Joujou Pavelescu, Jean Moscopol, Elvira Godeanu, Mihail Sebastian, and George Enescu. The confectionery’s acclaim reached across borders, with British lord Sacheverel Sitwell lauding it in his 1938 book, commending it as one of Europe’s finest.
In her memoirs, Margareta Amza extolled the Kalimtzakis establishment as the premier destination between Bucharest and Brasov. However, following nationalization, the establishment fell into decline under the communist regime.
In 2008, an attempt was made to revive the legacy of Kalimtzakis under the name "Cafeneaua parcului," aiming to recapture the interwar ambiance. Despite these efforts, the revival fell short of restoring the former glory.
In 2024, a new chapter began with the intervention of TIUGA STUDIO, under the visionary leadership of architect Alina Larisa Tugulan. The firm undertook an ambitious project to rejuvenate the historic Kalimtzakis building, transforming it into "Bistro Caramello." Located at 27 Octavian Goga Street, directly opposite Dimitrie Ghica Park and adjacent to the Palace confectionery and hotel, the restaurant’s redesign is nothing short of a masterpiece.
TIUGA STUDIO’s redesign draws inspiration from French aesthetics, reflecting the clients' desire to infuse the space with the charm and elegance reminiscent of their travels through France. The interior design masterfully blends classical elements with modern touches, ensuring that the renovation pays homage to the heritage of old Sinaia. The palette of forest green adorned with gold accents creates an ambiance of refined sophistication, merging nostalgic elements with contemporary luxury. Through this meticulous makeover, TIUGA STUDIO has not only revitalized a historic landmark but also redefined it, ensuring that Bistro Caramello stands as a testament to both the rich history and vibrant future of Sinaia.
ROOMS
GALLERY
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