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 creating in this picturesque Balkan setting.
A Leap from Environmentalism to Hospitality
Mark Calvert, originally from York, England, has an unconventional background for a restaurateur. He has a history of environmental work in the UK, and he only ventured into the hospitality industry after falling in love with Montenegro during a vacation. “”I discovered that it is one of the most beautiful places in the world," Mark recalls, “The people of Montenegro are generous-spirited and 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 enhances 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 even though they were only staying for short vacations.".
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're great at sourcing products and finding them. We get our groceries from local farms,”he says. This commitment 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 It 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 source top-quality local produce—such as tomatoes from farms in Podgorica and cheese from Lustica Bay—as well as unique European imports like Norwegian venison, making Moments the only restaurant in Montenegro to serve it.
This commitment to quality and service creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere where guests can enjoy breathtaking views of 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—perhaps via their luxury boat—you are warmly welcomed and escorted to your table, which often offers a breathtaking view of 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, gradually improving each dish and listening to our customers,”Mark shares. This dynamic approach not only takes seasonal produce into account 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 an obstacle to running an efficient business. However, Mark and his team are committed to providing excellent working conditions for their employees, with the goal of retaining motivated and happy staff.
Looking ahead, the vision for Moments is ambitious yet grounded. “First, it is to make this restaurant the best it can be,” Mark says. Beyond that, they plan to expand their unique culinary experience to other locations across Montenegro without becoming a run-of-the-mill chain. “We want to be the top destination in Montenegro,”he says.".
Expanding the Moments Experience
The Moments brand isn't limited to just the restaurant. They have invested in two stunning apartments—one in a historic palace on the seafront and another in the heart of Kotor's old town. This allows guests to experience the The Beauty of Montenegro comprehensively. In addition, they plan to offer accommodations at the Kalasin ski resort, providing a unique opportunity to sunbathe on 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 customers to visit and the best place to work.”And thanks to Mark and Viktor's dedication and vision, Moments is well on its way to achieving that goal.".
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