A Tasting Experience in Kaunas Takes You Back to the Golden Interwar Era
Tastings in Kaunas
For the third year in a row, Kaunas has been hosting the historical tasting experience “The interwar Cuisine.” These events bring together history enthusiasts eager to explore the food culture of interwar Lithuania and its temporary capital.
The tastings currently take place at Park Avenue, located in a building that once served as the residence of the German envoy a century ago.
What Made the Interwar Period in Kaunas So Special?
The interwar period is often referred to as Kaunas’ Golden Age — and for good reason. In 1938, Polish military attaché Leon Mitkiewicz visited the city and was astonished by what he saw: a city so beautiful, so modern, with impressive buildings and elegant hotels — a true so called “Little Paris.”
At the time, Kaunas had much to admire. A rapidly growing national economy transformed the city from a large provincial town into a European-style capital. Elegant ladies strolled the streets perfectly dressed, while gentlemen demonstrated impressive knowledge of fashion and etiquette.
And then there were the new buildings rising along Laisvės Alėja and in the Žaliakalnis district. During the 20 years of independence, around 12,000 new buildings were constructed in Kaunas. In 2023, Kaunas modernist architecture was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
These and many other fascinating stories are shared during a one-hour guided tour of Žaliakalnis that takes place before the tasting.
The Tasting Experience – What Stories Will You Discover?
During the tasting, the story of the interwar period continues — this time through food. We explore Lithuania’s remarkably rapid industrial growth, agricultural and food production, the cuisine and flavors of the era, favorite dishes of prominent figures, as well as the dining habits of the elite and diplomatic circles. You’ll also learn about the daily life of restaurants and cafés during that vibrant time.
And what would a tasting be without exceptional food?
Since the tasting experience takes place in the former residence of the German envoy, the menu is inspired by the dishes once served to guests by the last envoy to reside there, Erich Wilhelm Zechlin. Valuable insights were also shared by the envoy’s grandson, Thomas, who has personally visited the residence.
Tasting Menu
– Wild mushroom strudel with truffle and pecorino cream;
– Clear duck broth;
– Beef roulade with polenta, cauliflower, and red wine sauce;
– For dessert, “The Black Forest” is served with cherry ice cream made by the chef.
For corporate teams or groups of friends seeking a distinctive gastronomic experience, we can organize a private event that will satisfy not only your appetite but also your thirst for knowledge.
If one tour isn’t enough to satisfy your curiosity, we invite you to explore more experiences with Ekskursijos Kaune.
To arrange a tour time, contact us anytime by email at labas@paragaukistorijos.lt or by phone at +370 611 35830, Monday–Thursday from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
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