Nestled in the heart of Tirana, a few blocks from Blloku, The Crown offers a unique dining experience that combines the elegance of a spa and hotel with a delightful brunch menu. My visit towards the end of May 2024 left me with a mix of impressions, but overall, it was a pleasant experience worth sharing.
Find the Crown’s website here: https://thecrowntirana.com
Or on Google Maps here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/MKrhQpvdbaMDy7ch7
Ambiance and Setting
The Crown’s interior is nothing short of spectacular. The ambiance is elegant and fresh, providing a serene backdrop for a leisurely brunch. The decor exudes sophistication, making it a perfect spot for a special occasion or a relaxing morning meal. Along with other establishments in Tirana, such as the Lift Steakhouse, The Crown’s setting stands out for its refined and inviting atmosphere.
Service and Seating
Arriving early, I found the seating process to be quick and efficient. The staff were friendly and attentive, ensuring a smooth start to my brunch. The service was commendable, with no major issues to report.
The Menu and Dining Experience
The Crown’s brunch menu is designed with a unique twist, allowing diners to check off items they wish to order, reminiscent of a dim sum experience. This interactive approach is both fun and practical, though I would advise ordering a bit more than you might initially expect, as the serving sizes are on the smaller side. (i.e. Baked Tomato is half of a small tomato.)
Highlights and Recommendations
The Pre-meal setup highlighted how sophisticated this spot is. It’s really a pretty layout. You can see the trees blowing in the sunny wind outside from the second floor.
Soufflé Omelet: The standout main dish of my brunch was undoubtedly the soufflé omelet. Its texture was impeccable—light, fluffy, and almost cloud-like. While it didn’t have seasoning, pairing it with the traditional Albanian fërgesë added a burst of flavor. A touch of spice or some added ingredients like cheese or vegetables could elevate this dish to perfection.
- Egg Scramble: Well-seasoned and flavorful, the egg scramble was a delightful surprise. The spices from the fërgesë added a nice kick, making it a dish worth trying.
- Omelet: The regular omelet was just ok, similar to a rolled egg. Adding cheese or other ingredients could significantly enhance this dish.
- Also pictured is the Smoked Salmon, mushroom, beef ham, baked mushroom, and baked tomato.
The salad was quite basic, and fresh. I felt it could benefit from more robust flavors, but this may be a preference within morning salads to be on the lighter side of flavouring.
Yogurt with Fruit: Ending my meal on a high note, the yogurt was fresh and not overly sweet, with the natural sugars from the fruit providing just the right amount of sweetness. It was a refreshing and satisfying conclusion to the brunch. I love the presentation and would 100% order this again.
The Highlight of the Brunch
The small bowl of Fergese, my personal highlight of the meal. Spiced perfectly, and goes well with the egg dishes. I was putting this on the salad, omelettes, and even the beef ham. It went well with everything, and when I return, I might even order 2.
Value for Money
At a standard priced 1,200 Lek per person for the breakfast buffet option, The Crown’s brunch is on the pricier side for breakfast. However, the unique menu and elegant setting make it a worthwhile experience, particularly for hotel guests who can enjoy the buffet as part of their stay. For non-guests, it might be best to visit with a group or for a special occasion to make the most of the experience.
Final Thoughts
The Crown in Tirana offers a brunch experience that is both unique and enjoyable. The elegant setting and interactive menu make it a standout choice for those looking to indulge in a leisurely morning meal. While some dishes could use a bit more seasoning, the overall experience is positive, and I would recommend giving it a try, especially if you are staying at the hotel. For those planning a visit, go hungry and be sure to check off a variety of items from the menu to fully enjoy what The Crown has to offer.
