Prague Journal

Saturday, January 22, 2005.

Howard had been given two free dinners at the Radisson Hotel’s Alcron restaurant, which specializes in (very expensive and fancy) seafood, and Marketa generously suggested that the four of us go to dinner and split the tab. The Radisson is a 5-star art deco deluxe hotel just off Wenceslas square, with a large foyer that has a large lounge, sports bar, café, and the small (8 tables) Alcron restaurant. The Radisson was originally called the Alcron Hotel, constructed in 1930 as a luxurious hotel and became known also for its jazz concerts. The building underwent extensive restoration in 1998. Most of the original interior was preserved, including the weighty chandeliers, the rich Italian marble, the Art Deco decor, and the creamy “milk glass” seen throughout the hotel. The Alcron Restaurant was built in September 2000. According to their promo literature, “this unique restaurant offers fish and seafood specialities of the top quality. With its maximum of 28 seats, is aimed to attract the most exclusive clientele.” On this Saturday evening, there weren’t many clientele exclusive enough to want to dine there: we were one of only four parties the whole evening. (The other restaurants and bars in the hotel seemed to be quite full of activity). The food and service were excellent, but there is no way we could afford to go there and pay full price. The dinners alone – full-course meals, but without the complementary champagne and wine – would have been $85-$100 each. Desserts would have been $20 each! So thanks to Howard and Marketa’s generosity, we had a very elegant dinner and, of course very pleasant evening with them.

posted by JWinn @ 10:54 PM