Our Chef
Robert Bagli
Mr. Robert Bagli has been named Chef de Cuisine at Cafe Botanica in the Essex House on Central Park. The announcement is made by Dimitrios Zarikos, Director of Food and Beverage for the hotel. "In his new position, Robert will be assuming greatly expanded responsibilities regarding Botanca's menus, concept and philosophy." states Zarikos.
Bagli joined the Cafe Budapest team at the time of the hotel's reopening in 1991. "From the outset, Robert has been the "hands-on" force behind Cafe Botanica. His practical experience combined with his formal training and culinary vision will bring Botanica in to a new era of cooking", states Zarikos.
Bagli shys from labeling his cuisine. "The menu I am bringing may be called "Ethnically American". A 1982 graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, Bagli completed apprentice ships at the two Star Michelin Les Jardins De L'Opera in Toulouse and the Three Star L'Esperance in St.Pere sous Vezeley.
Bagli resides in New Jersey with his wife and infant son.