The traditional Black & White evening of JRE-Slovenia celebrated connection, recognition, and culinary excellence
There’s no single recipe for success behind the kitchen counter—and at JRE-Slovenia, they’re not even looking for one. Among the members, you’ll find perfectionists and intuitive creators, those who shine in the spotlight and those who lead by quiet example. Some change the world with their plates; others masterfully build their own small worlds. They are black, and they are white. They are fire, and they are ice. And it’s precisely in these contrasts—in style, approach, and character—that the strength of JRE lies: in diversity that doesn’t divide, but builds a community.
This spirit also defined this year’s Black & White evening—the largest annual event of JRE-Slovenia—held in the elegant setting of Galerija Repanšek. The gathering brought together 180 guests from the worlds of gastronomy, hospitality, media, and partner organizations. The evening began with a toast to a special sparkling wine, developed by JRE chefs in collaboration with Radgonske gorice—symbolizing the community’s diversity and elegance.
The event was hosted with charm and ease by David Urankar, while culinary masterpieces were crafted by Gregor Jelnikar (Georgie Bistro), Jorg Zupan (Aftr), Jure Tomič (Ošterija Debeluh), Leon Pintarič (Rajh), and the team from Hiša Raduha. Black-and-white elegance met laid-back authenticity—on a night where excellence didn’t exclude sincerity, but embraced it.
The highlight of the evening was the induction of new member Gregor Jelnikar and the awarding Uroš Štefelin as a Member de Honour.
Hiša Linhart in Radovljica, led by Uroš Štefelin and Marcela Klofutar, stands as a shining example of how tradition can be seamlessly woven with creativity. With a modern approach to Slovenian cuisine—rooted in local ingredients and the stories they carry—Hiša Linhart has become a symbol of responsible and thoughtful hospitality. Uroš Štefelin, one of the founding members of JRE-Slovenia, has long been an ambassador of the community and is a recipient of a Michelin star.
Being part of the JRE community for so many years has been an extraordinary journey. Receiving honorary membership is recognition of the path taken—and motivation for future challenges.
Hiša Linhart
Georgie Bistro, in the heart of Ljubljana, is where modern bistro cuisine meets a sense of home. Chef Gregor Jelnikar and his team create an experience grounded in local ingredients, genuine hospitality, and a drive for excellence—stripped of unnecessary pretense. Upon joining JRE-Slovenia, Gregor shared:
Becoming a member of JRE is a great honor for me and a recognition of the effort we put into Georgie Bistro. I look forward to collaborating and sharing knowledge with other members.
Georgie bistro
The evening came to a close just as it should in a culinary community: with music, relaxed conversation, and heartfelt toasts. The focus wasn’t on individual importance, but on connection. Not on competition, but on collaboration. And that is precisely why JRE-Slovenia continues to be what it is—a community of diverse individuals united by shared values.