Jaroslav Žídek
Jaroslav Žídek, a culinary legend originally from Prague, has been shaping Slovakia's fine dining scene for over two decades. As Executive Chef of RIVERBANK Restaurant, Grand Hotel River Park, a Luxury Collection Hotel in Bratislava since 2017, he brings a refined blend of tradition and global flair to every dish.
Jaroslav honed his craft early on by working across prestigious kitchens in the Czech Republic, Spain, and Scandinavia. In 2003, he moved to Bratislava to develop the culinary concepts at Erdödy Palace. There, he launched Camouflage and Flowers, both awarded two caps by Gault Millau and named top restaurants in Slovakia. In 2012, he opened the restaurant in Hotel Albrecht. Since 2017, he has steered the kitchen at RIVERBANK Restaurant, earning prestigious accolades, including Gurmán Award, Gault Millau, and Falstaff recognition.
Inspired by his mother's cooking and childhood culinary traditions, Jaroslav Žídek brings simplicity, authenticity, and pure, vibrant flavors to every dish at RIVERBANK Restaurant in Bratislava—creating a dining experience that feels truly like home.
He also emphasizes mentorship—many young chefs have grown under his guidance, benefitting from his passionate leadership and dedication to nurturing talent.