Located in the scenic town of Dobrota, Kotor, Montenegro, Moments Restaurant is a burgeoning culinary hotspot. We sat down with the owner, Mark Calvert, and chef Viktor Dvinsky to discuss their journey, vision, and the unique dining experience they are crafting in this picturesque Balkan locale.
A Leap from Environmentalism to Hospitality
Mark Calvert, originally from York, England, has an unconventional background for a restaurateur. His history lies in environmental work in the UK, and he only ventured into hospitality after falling in love with Montenegro during a holiday. “I discovered it is one of the most beautiful places in the world,” Mark recalls. “The people of Montenegro are generous of spirit, very laid back, but they have their own unique food culture.”
This revelation led Mark, along with his partners—Milan, a local Montenegrin, and Viktor, a talented chef from Russia—to embark on a mission to elevate the culinary scene in Montenegro. “We decided we could create something unique, something that elevates the culinary experience,” Mark explains. And they have. In just 12 weeks, Moments has seen a significant increase in its customer base, with many clients returning despite being on short holiday stays.
Crafting a Unique Dining Experience
Viktor Dvinsky, the culinary mastermind behind Moments, brings a wealth of experience from some of the best restaurants in St. Petersburg and Moscow. His passion for food is evident as he describes the meticulous process of sourcing ingredients. “We do a great job of looking for products, finding these products. We take groceries from local farms,” he says. This dedication ensures that about 85 to 90 percent of their products come from within 16 kilometers of the restaurant, promoting sustainability and freshness. Moments Restaurant in Montenegro sets itself apart by prioritizing the quality and sourcing of its ingredients, ensuring an exceptional dining experience. Owner Mark Calvert and Chef Viktor Dvinsky go to great lengths to procure top-notch local produce, such as tomatoes from Podgorica farms and cheese from Lustica Bay, and unique European imports like Norwegian venison, making Moments the only restaurant in Montenegro to serve it.
This dedication to quality and service creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere where guests can enjoy breathtaking views over the bay and innovative cuisine. Moments Restaurant offers a unique, luxurious dining experience that leaves guests smiling and satisfied, as reflected in their glowing reviews.
At Moments Restaurant guests are promised more than just a meal; they are offered an experience that leaves a lasting impression. From the moment you arrive, possibly via their luxury boat, you are warmly welcomed and escorted to your table, often with a breathtaking view over the bay. The ambiance exudes warmth and luxury, setting the stage for a culinary journey unlike any other.
The menu at Moments is a constantly evolving masterpiece. “We’re on our fourth menu in 12 weeks, just gradually improving every dish and listening to our customers,” Mark shares. This dynamic approach not only caters to seasonal produce but also incorporates feedback to refine and enhance each dish.
Challenges and Vision for the Future
Operating in Montenegro comes with its own set of challenges. “Importing things is very difficult,” Mark admits, recounting instances of manually transporting cutlery in his suitcase. The laid-back Montenegrin culture, while charming for tourists, can be a hurdle for running an efficient business. However, Mark and his team are committed to providing excellent terms for their employees, aiming to retain motivated and happy staff.
Looking ahead, the vision for Moments is ambitious yet grounded. “Firstly, it is to make this restaurant the best it can be,” Mark states. Beyond that, they plan to extend their unique culinary experience to other venues across Montenegro without becoming a monotonous chain. “We want to be the go-to destination in Montenegro,” he affirms.
Expanding the Moments Experience
The Moments brand is not just confined to the restaurant. They have invested in two stunning apartments—one in a historic palace on the seafront and another in the center of Kotor’s old town. This allows guests to experience the beauty of Montenegro comprehensively. Additionally, they plan to offer accommodations in the ski resort of Kalasin, providing a unique opportunity to sunbathe by the coast in the morning and ski in the afternoon.
Moments Restaurant is more than just a place to eat; it is a holistic experience designed to showcase the best of Montenegrin hospitality, cuisine, and culture. With a team passionate about food, service, and sustainability, Moments is poised to become a landmark in Montenegro’s culinary landscape. As Mark puts it, “We want to be the best place for a customer to visit and the best place to work.” And with the dedication and vision of Mark and Viktor, Moments is well on its way to achieving that goal.
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