Sumosan Montenegro: An Interview with Francesco Coccia on Culinary Excellence and Unique Experiences

Why Choose Dukley and Sumosan?

For those looking for an extraordinary summer destination, Dukley Gardens and Sumosan in Montenegro offer an unmatched combination of luxury, culinary excellence, and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to relax on pristine beaches, indulge in gourmet dining, or explore the vibrant nightlife of Budva, Dukley Gardens provides an experience like no other.

Fine Dining Table Team: Okay, we're with Francesco. He's from Italy. How are you? Tell us what the brand is and what the opportunity is in Sumosan Montenegro.

Francesco Coccia: So, my name is Francesco Coccia, and I’m from Italy. I’ve spent the last 20 years of my career in the hospitality industry. I’ve spent most of my career in London, in the UK. But I joined the Sumosan Group in London in 2017, and since then I’ve been involved in the opening of Sumosan Courchevel for the past four winter seasons. Last year, the company opened another venue—a summer venue in Crete, Greece—which I managed. And this year, I am very happy to be part of Sumosan’s Montenegro project.

Fine Dining Table Team: That's fascinating. Could you tell us more about what makes Sumosan Montenegro special?

Francesco Coccia: We are working with a great team of people. I am very happy to work for a brand that brings the same modern, contemporary Japanese cuisine to various parts of the world, which customers really appreciate. In Montenegro, we are blessed with a beautiful seaside location. We have also introduced, for the first time in a Sumosan concept, a beach club. The use of sunbeds and the daily enjoyment of the beach facilities are new additions we’ve never had before, and they are proving very successful right now. Customers can enjoy sunbeds, sunbathing, and swimming, all accompanied by Sumosan’s signature food and drinks. We are very happy to be here.

Fine Dining Table Team: That sounds like an incredible experience. How would you compare this location to other Sumosan venues around the world?

Francesco Coccia: This is a difficult question to answer. It’s definitely one of the places with the best views, along with the one in Greece. We also have a strong presence in the Middle East with beautiful indoor Sumosan locations. This Sumosan in Montenegro has one of the best sunset views I’ve ever seen. In terms of location, we’re very, very lucky here.

Fine Dining Table Team: Service is always a critical component. What do people expect here, and what do you offer that sets you apart from other places in Montenegro?

Francesco Coccia: We have brand standards like any major brand, but we pride ourselves on offering personalized service. We have corporate staff who travel with us, know our customers, understand their expectations, and recognize our regulars. We are flexible in our standards to accommodate guests’ needs and aim to provide personalized service to every guest. We call our approach «casual and friendly»—we’re not stiff or cold. We offer warm, friendly, and efficient service.

Fine Dining Table Team: Let's move on to some lighter questions. Champagne or spirits?

Francesco Coccia: Champagne.

Fine Dining Table Team: White wine or red wine?

Francesco Coccia: White wine.

Fine Dining Table Team: Perfect. Thank you, Francesco, for what you just shared. It’s amazing. I’d just like to add that the reason we chose Sumosan is because we’ve heard so much about their cuisine and their kitchen. Specialties from Sumosan are something our owners and many friends around the world have already tasted and tried.

Francesco Coccia: Thank you. We are proud that our reputation precedes us. In the hospitality industry, strong word-of-mouth recommendations are crucial. Since we opened here as a Sumosan brand last month, we’ve received great reviews for the quality of our food, our unique flavors, and our contemporary sushi recipes featuring modern Nikkei influences and unique spices.

Fine Dining Table Team: I've heard you ran into some challenges getting ingredients here to Montenegro.

Francesco Coccia: Yes, indeed. We worked hard to source ingredients from all over the world to ensure our guests can enjoy authentic flavors. In addition, our service is enhanced by highly trained staff—waiters, supervisors, bartenders, and chefs. We also provide additional staffing support. Our corporate chef, Buba, can further explain how unique Sumosan cuisine is compared to others.

Fine Dining Table Team: That's impressive. It sounds like Sumosan offers something truly unique on the Adriatic Sea.

Francesco Coccia: Yes, we believe so. Our cuisine isn’t just made—it’s crafted—and that craftsmanship is what sets us apart.

Fine Dining Table Team: Thank you again, Francesco. This has been enlightening. We look forward to enjoying the SumoSan experience here in Montenegro.

We invite you to visit Dukley Gardens, where every moment is crafted to perfection, and discover why Montenegro is quickly becoming a premier destination for discerning travelers worldwide. Experience the elegance, savor the flavors, and create unforgettable memories in the heart of the Adriatic.

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