Restaurant Monte is a family story that began in 1985 with a traditional Istrian tavern owned by the parents of chef Danijel Đekić. In the following years, Danijel and his wife Tjitske, a renowned sommelier, whom both think of food as a way of celebrating life, and as an act that brings people together, took over Monte and transformed it into a true gourmet oasis in which tradition is still highly valued.

Danijel and Tjitske passed on their dedication and love for the restaurant Monte to their sons Ilja and Simon.

Together with his father, their older son Ilja creates innovative, ever-evolving, and terroir-based cuisine characterised by daring innovation, all in order to recreate archaic flavours that often bring back the best memories from one's childhood.

Simon, the junior, has followed in his mother's footsteps and has taken over the task of Maitre d', besides this developing his experience as sommelier. His natural communication skills have made him the leading front of house.