The roof of the Novapark Hotel in Graz offers an extraordinary highlight: two airplanes that have been converted into a bar and a restaurant. This unique attraction has attracted numerous visitors since it opened five years ago. But now the popular airplane restaurant is facing a significant change: regular operations will be discontinued. Guests could only dine there until the end of July 2024, after which the restaurant will only open on request for parties and events.
The planes, an Ilyushin IL 62 and a Boeing 727-200, were spectacularly hoisted onto the roof of the hotel in 2018 and have been used as a bar and restaurant since then. The restaurant in the Boeing 727-200 is particularly notable as it claims to be the only one of its kind in the world to operate at a height of 22 metres. The ambience of the original aircraft, the VIP seating and the attached kitchen offer guests a unique culinary experience that goes far beyond the usual airplane food.
Change of concept from August 2024
Regular restaurant operations on the aircraft ended on July 31, 2024. From August, the restaurant will only be open on request for special occasions such as parties and events. This decision comes as no surprise, as the restaurant was recently only open on Fridays and Saturdays. A Facebook post by the hotel invited guests to use the remaining opening hours and once again enjoy the special flair of the aircraft restaurant.
While the restaurant is ceasing its regular operations, the Fliegerbar in the Ilyushin IL 62 will remain open. This 80s-style bar has also established itself as a popular meeting place where guests can enjoy cool drinks and snacks above the rooftops of Graz. The bar also has a kitchen, so visitors don't have to miss out on culinary offerings entirely.
Possible pop-up events in autumn
However, there is hope for all lovers of the airplane restaurant: In the fall, the restaurant could reopen in the form of pop-up events. These temporary events offer the opportunity to experience the special ambience of the airplane again, even if regular operations are suspended. Details about these pop-ups are not yet known, but the hotel plans to inform its guests about them in good time.
The idea of operating a restaurant and bar in real airplanes caused a stir right from the start. The two airplanes were painstakingly restored and brought to their current position on the hotel roof. The Ilyushin IL 62 and the Boeing 727-200 were once used in commercial aviation before being converted into these unique dining establishments. The hype at the opening was huge, and the interest of guests has not waned since then.
A visit to Novapark
For those who don't want to miss out on the extraordinary experience of eating or drinking in an airplane, the Novapark in Graz remains a worthwhile destination. In addition to the aviator bar, guests can use the sun terrace at a height of 22 meters at the Ilyushin IL 62 or the green outdoor terrace of the Nova Spa. Vouchers for the aviator bar or as a value voucher are also still available.
The airplane restaurant in Novapark was and is a special highlight in Graz's gastronomy scene. With the switch to exclusive bookings for parties and events, the concept has changed, but the unique experience remains. The opportunity to dine in a real airplane above the rooftops of Graz remains for special occasions. The airplane bar in the Ilyushin IL 62 remains a place where you can enjoy cool drinks and snacks in an extraordinary environment.
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