Destination: Bay of Kotor, Montenegro

Framed by dramatic limestone mountains and the sparkling Adriatic, the Bay of Kotor is one of the Mediterranean’s most captivating coastal landscapes. Medieval towns, quiet harbours, and centuries of maritime heritage create a setting where history and nature exist in perfect balance. Whether wandering through stone alleyways or gazing across the water from a sunlit terrace, visitors quickly discover a region that reveals its beauty at an unhurried pace.

Savor the Spirit of Bay of Kotor

Life around the bay revolves around the sea. Fresh seafood, local wines, and long lunches by the waterfront are woven into daily life, reflecting a culture shaped by generations of fishermen, sailors, and coastal communities. Here, gastronomy is more than a meal; it is an expression of place, season, and tradition.

In Perast, Trattoria Rosmarino captures this spirit through contemporary Adriatic cuisine inspired by the bay itself. Guided by a deep respect for local ingredients and maritime heritage, the restaurant offers a taste of Montenegro that feels both authentic and refreshingly modern.

Interview

Meet JRE chef Nikola Čelić, the talent behind Trattoria Rosmarino in Perast. Inspired by the Bay of Kotor and its maritime heritage, he creates cuisine that is rooted in place, guided by seasonality, and shaped by a deep respect for local ingredients. From Adriatic seafood to vegetables sourced nearby, his cooking reflects the character of Montenegro's coastline.

Nikola Čelić: Guided by Nature and Instinct

For Nikola Čelić, great cooking begins with understanding the landscape around you. His approach is built on simplicity, allowing ingredients to express themselves while instinct and experience bring each dish to life. Fire, freshness, and seasonality play a central role, creating flavors that feel honest and deeply connected to the bay.

At Trattoria Rosmarino, local traditions meet contemporary elegance. His story is one of patience, craftsmanship, and a belief that the finest dishes often come from treating humble ingredients with care and respect.

Recipe

Chef Nikola Čelić transforms familiar ingredients into something unexpected with this elegant summer dessert. Combining technical precision with a playful sense of creativity, he brings together sweetness, freshness, and texture in a composition that reflects the lightness of the Adriatic coast.

Flavors of Surprise and Contrast

Crisp Swiss meringue, delicate white chocolate cream, and vibrant tomato jam create an intriguing balance of flavors and textures. The addition of caramelized milk powder introduces a warm, toasted note that ties everything together, resulting in a dessert that feels both refined and refreshingly original. A perfect example of Chef Čelić's ability to elevate simple ingredients through imagination and restraint.