We know her as a successful actress and presenter, but her name is increasingly associated with culinary art. We’re talking about Markéta Hrubešová, who rose to fame alongside Lukáš Vaculík in the film Oznamuje se láskám vašim. Today, her successful career also includes fairy-tale productions and cooking shows. As a companion to these shows, she began publishing her own cookbooks – and now has an entire line of personal recipes. But what’s less known is how deeply connected she is to the town of Kroměříž.
Can you tell us about your bond with Kroměříž?
“I practically grew up in Kroměříž. My grandmother lived here her whole life, my mother was born here, and I was already coming here as a baby in her belly. I returned to Kroměříž every chance I got – I spent most of my summer holidays and every Christmas here.”
So you’ve known Kroměříž since childhood?
“Yes. We went on walks every day by the pond and to the romantic gazebos in the Chateau Garden. For me, it was a magical place, blessed by the endless love of my beloved grandmother. It was actually she who taught me how to cook game, which is one of my culinary focuses today.”
So your cooking talent came from her?
“My grandmother was a brilliant cook and baker. She made the best Christmas cookies in the world – amazing vanilla crescents, cocoa roll… I remember it all. Her recipe for Christmas carp and delicious potato salad has been passed down through two generations in our family – now my mum makes it, and I will continue the tradition too. My grandmother even had a millinery salon called Lilly right across from the Chateau Garden. She told me stories about it – we would find components for the beautiful hats she made for all the ladies in the elegant pre-war era, and a little while after. That’s why I love wearing hats – it’s my way of honouring her.”
What else do you fondly remember about Kroměříž?
“Most of all, I love the little house on Oskol, where my grandmother lived. After our walks in the garden, we’d have ice cream at Avion, we went to the churches – especially every Christmas to see the nativity scene. I’ve recently come back to Kroměříž for work several times in a row, and it’s lovely how all those memories have returned. I always look up to the sky and say, ‘Grandma, I hope you’d be at least a little proud of me.’”
So is visiting Kroměříž still a matter of the heart for you?
“Half of my heart and half of my life belong to Kroměříž. It’s etched in my heart like a beautiful hallmark. And I sincerely recommend everyone to enjoy it too. If you want peace, charm, elegance, a beautiful place with soul and history – come to Kroměříž.”