Our recent late-afternoon dining experience at Kogo, a highly-rated establishment boasting a coveted spot in the Michelin guide, was unfortunately a tale of two halves, with the first half being quite frankly a bit of a mess. Anticipation was high, especially as the restaurant graciously agreed to accommodate my wife's vegan diet, a rarity given their meat and fish-heavy menu. We also noticed that the other part of the room appeared to have normal, and likely more comfortable, seating, making our eventual placement even more frustrating. Our initial impressions were tarnished upon arrival. Despite having a booking, our table wasn't ready, leaving us awkwardly standing in the middle of the dining room for a full ten minutes. The confusion continued when another party attempted to claim our table, with staff seemingly unsure of the seating arrangements. We eventually found ourselves in an area with mismatched seating, a stark contrast to the seemingly better-appointed section we had glimpsed earlier. I, with my shorter torso, was practically adrift on a high bench, a good half-meter from the table, while my wife, possessing a normal-length torso, was awkwardly perched on a low stool. This uncomfortable setup immediately set a negative tone for the evening. This seating area was clearly not designed for dining and needs significant improvement. The dietary accommodations, though initially promising, proved to be a source of further disappointment. When my wife explained she was vegan, the staff member's confused expression and question about whether she ate fish revealed a concerning lack of understanding of basic dietary requirements. While I acknowledge Kogo's focus on meat and fish, in this day and age, a basic understanding of veganism should be expected. A suggestion of risotto was uninspiring, and despite asking the waiter to consult with the chef about potential vegan options, nothing materialized. My wife ultimately settled for a selection of grilled vegetables, mushrooms, and salad. My own order, a ribeye steak with a side salad (the size of which was unknown when ordering), was passable but unremarkable. The steak was cooked acceptably, but an unusually high fat content (around 30%) was disappointing. The toasted potatoes were the highlight of my dish, though the combination of those, the side salad, and the vegetable side proved to be far too much food. The presentation of my wife's meal was frankly bizarre. Two bowls were placed directly in front of her, one filled with oil-soaked grilled vegetables and the other with mushrooms. The mushrooms, while looking good, were reportedly so salty that they were almost inedible. The overall presentation was baffling. Why no plate? Why two bowls? We had to request a plate (twice, as the first was a side plate) and then awkwardly transfer the food, creating an unnecessarily messy situation. The vegetables themselves were swimming in oil, lacking any discernible sauce or seasoning. The only positive here was the price, which was surprisingly low for side dishes. In conclusion, our experience at Kogo was a letdown, particularly considering its reputation and Michelin guide inclusion. The service was disorganized, the seating uncomfortable, and the approach to dietary needs was, at best, poorly executed. While my steak was okay and my potatoes were very good, my wife's vegan meal was an afterthought, both in conception and presentation, with the added insult of overly salted mushrooms. A restaurant of this caliber should strive for consistency and inclusivity, neither of which were evident during our visit. I'd recommend looking elsewhere if you're seeking a truly exceptional dining experience, especially if you have any dietary restrictions or prefer comfortable seating in the...
Read moreA Delightful Culinary Experience at Kogo in Koper
Kogo in Koper is one of those restaurants that immediately makes an impression from the moment you walk in. The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between refined elegance and relaxed comfort, creating a space where you feel both welcome and special. The interior is stylishly decorated, with an attention to detail that matches the care put into every plate that leaves the kitchen.
Service at Kogo is simply outstanding. The staff are attentive without being intrusive, offering genuine warmth alongside professional efficiency. Every course is served with a smile and a clear understanding of the menu, making guests feel well-taken care of throughout the entire dining experience.
The food itself is well above average, and in many cases, exceptional. Ingredients are fresh and thoughtfully sourced, and the flavors are balanced yet bold. Presentation is another area where Kogo excels — each dish arrives as a visual work of art, with plating that showcases creativity and precision. From starters to desserts, the attention to both flavor and aesthetics is evident.
Portions are generous without sacrificing refinement, and there is a clear emphasis on quality over quantity. The menu offers a variety of choices that cater to different tastes, while still maintaining a cohesive culinary identity.
Whether you’re in Koper for a special occasion or simply looking to enjoy a meal that exceeds expectations, Kogo delivers on every level. With its combination of excellent service, beautiful ambiance, and consistently delicious food, it’s a place worth visiting time...
Read moreAbsolutely loved our experience at Kogo! The atmosphere is stylish and modern, but still warm and welcoming. The staff were incredibly friendly, professional, and knowledgeable about both the menu and local wines.
We ordered the ravioli and spaghetti—both were perfectly cooked and full of flavor. The starters were creative and well-balanced, and the dessert was a perfect finish. The wine list focuses on local selections, which paired beautifully with the dishes.
It’s clear this place takes pride in quality and presentation. Definitely one of the best dining experiences we had in Koper—highly recommended for anyone looking for a great mix of regional flavors with a...
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