Dam
Nova Gorica, Slovenia
⭐1 Star
The Experience
From Michelin Guide
At this restaurant, it is owner-chef Uroš Fakuč himself who takes care of guests. With a friendly, relaxed manner, he divides his time between the dining room and the kitchen, where he creates a single tasting menu based on whatever is available in the market that day, offering a shorter option as well as the “XL” version. His love of fish is clearly evident on the menu, which features freshwater options as well as fish from the Adriatic cooked using modern, precise methods which focus on classic flavours rather than unnecessarily complex recipes. The cuisine is perfectly balanced between Slovenian and Italian influences – the risotto with oysters, sea asparagus and chilli peppers is particularly recommended!
Unique Things
From Visitor Experiences
1. Chef Uroš Fakuč’s Personal Engagement and Market-Driven Tasting Menu
Chef Uroš Fakuč personally guides guests through a single tasting menu that changes daily based on market availability, reflecting a dynamic and fresh approach to fine dining. He offers both a standard and an “XL” version of the tasting menu, emphasizing a personalized and flexible dining experience.
2. Fusion of Slovenian and Italian Mediterranean Influences with a Focus on Fish
The cuisine at Dam is uniquely balanced between Slovenian and Italian influences, with a strong emphasis on fish dishes from both freshwater and the Adriatic Sea. The cooking style uses modern, precise methods that highlight classic flavors without overcomplicating recipes. A signature dish is the risotto with oysters, sea asparagus, and chili peppers.
3. Boutique Hotel Integration and Exclusive Ambiance
Dam is not just a Michelin-starred restaurant but also part of a boutique hotel, offering guests a deluxe stay with top-level indulgence and luxury accommodation. This integration provides a comprehensive high-end experience, including options for exclusive events and catering, making it a destination beyond just dining.
Ingredient Stars
From Visitor Experiences
The most honored or signature ingredients at the Michelin-starred restaurant Dam in Nova Gorica, led by Chef Uroš Fakuč, reflect a strong Mediterranean influence combined with the best local Slovenian produce. Key ingredients include:
Freshwater and Adriatic fish: Fish dishes dominate the menu due to the restaurant's proximity (20 km) to the Adriatic Sea. The chef uses both freshwater and sea fish, showcasing his love for seafood in innovative ways.
Truffles: Used notably in dishes like trout with truffles or fried egg yolk with a truffle crust, truffles add a luxurious and earthy flavor that highlights local Slovenian ingredients.
Oysters: Featured in signature dishes such as risotto with oysters, sea asparagus, and chili peppers, oysters bring a refined, briny taste that complements the Mediterranean style of the cuisine.
Sea asparagus: This coastal plant is used alongside oysters and chili peppers in risotto, adding a unique texture and a fresh, slightly salty flavor typical of the region.
Chili peppers: Used to add a subtle heat and balance to dishes like the oyster risotto, enhancing the complexity of flavors.
Chef Uroš Fakuč’s philosophy centers on using the finest local and seasonal ingredients, combining Slovenian and Italian influences with sophisticated techniques to create a harmonious and innovative dining experience.