Iberostar and Irini colaboration

Following an extensive refurbishment, Iberostar Selection Creta Marine has been meticulously redesigned and upgraded to offer an elevated guest experience. Exceptionally located in Panormo, on the northern coast of the island of Crete, the hotel is nestled amidst new landscaped lush gardens and overlooks the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea. It has been built to emulate the charming Cretan village it is neighboured by, with a mixture of brand new and refurbished airy rooms, sugar cube style bungalows and a refreshed lobby and common area that embodies Cretan hospitality. True to Iberostar's culinary reputation, the resort’s all-inclusive offers a total of 9 restaurants and bars that will provide guests with a variety of natural, fresh and healthy homemade cuisine.

Chef Irini brings her expertise to curate a tempting menu featuring fresh and seasonal delights sourced from local producers, highlighting traditional Cretan cuisine infused with a modern flair, promising guests an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

Irini’s own Cretan heritage, allied with her experience and passion for high quality, responsibly sourced cuisine which aligns perfectly with our values for Honest Food and healthy eating, 

Chef Irini's collaboration with Iberostar involved engaging in creative discussions with our chefs meticulously crafting the menu for the reopening of Iberostar Selection Creta Marine. Chef Irini will introduce a selection of signature dishes for the hotel’s Vegghera Cretan Tavern restaurant, which embraces the charm of Cretan, taverna-style dining. 

After the launch, a selection of Irini’s dishes will be replicated at Kyknos Greek restaurant at Iberostar Selection Albufera Park, a family-friendly resort in Playa de Muro, Mallorca, which was refurbished last year. As part of the creative process, Irini worked on the bespoke menu in Mallorca with the hotel’s executive chef. 

Irini Tzortzoglou, is from a small village in Crete - Ano Akria in the Monofatsi, where she was immersed in the rich flavours of her homeland from an early age after working in her uncle's hotel and meeting her husband. Irini headed to London and began a successful 30-year banking career.

It wasn't until she relocated to Cumbria, a place reminiscent of Crete with its appreciation for quality food, that Irini's passion for cooking was reignited. Irini was inspired to take a leap of faith and enter MasterChef.

Irini's childhood was marked by scarcity but an abundance of fresh, home-cooked food, instilling a deep appreciation for locally sourced produce and simple cooking methods. This foundation served her well as she captivated judges and ultimately secured the title of MasterChef 2019.

Since then, Chef Irini has continued to make waves in the culinary world. She authored a book titled "Under the Olive Trees," sharing her recipes and culinary wisdom and has become an ambassador for Women in The Food Industry, inspiring others with her passion, skill, and determination.