More than just a bar, Riddle is a sensory escape where no menu exists and each cocktail is a story waiting to unfold. In this conversation, Duško Kostadinoski, Director of Riddle Bar, opens up about the philosophy behind the venue’s concept, the role of hospitality in shaping Belgrade’s identity, and why genuine experience always starts—and ends—with people.
How would you describe the concept behind Riddle Bar, and what sets it apart on Belgrade’s hospitality scene?
The concept is based on the attention we give to our guests—their preferences and expectations. That’s why we decided not to have a written menu. Instead, we talk with each guest to understand their taste and turn that imagined cocktail into a drink in the glass.
We’re also proud to produce many of our own ingredients. That’s the beauty of craft mixology—the freedom to express creativity in its purest form. Every cocktail we create carries a story, from the ingredients to the motivation and the name itself.
What are the challenges and advantages of managing an exclusive bar within an international hotel like Crowne Plaza?
There are far more advantages than challenges. One of the bigger challenges is introducing short-stay hotel guests to the Riddle concept, especially since this is a business-focused hotel rather than a seaside resort. But those who stay longer and take time to engage with the idea see Riddle as an escape from daily obligations—a “me time” experience, as it’s called in the West. That’s why we work closely with the hotel to position Riddle as a tranquil retreat within a busy environment.
As for advantages—Crowne Plaza is the largest congress hotel in Belgrade with direct access to the Sava Center. That alone speaks to the potential of our collaboration. Plus, we have full access to the hotel’s resources and receive unwavering support for our ideas. This partnership proves that when young, creative minds unite around a shared vision, there are no limits—success becomes inevitable.
Riddle Bar is known for its sophisticated ambience and carefully curated cocktails. How do your most popular creations come to life?
For a cocktail to become popular, several factors need to align. First, there’s the idea—what exactly are we trying to achieve with this drink? Then come the ingredients and why they’re paired together. And, of course, it must appeal to the guest.
Our entire team is involved in this process. Often, someone will come up with an idea for a cocktail, and then the team helps shape it—from flavour to name. It’s like writing a story—it needs an introduction, development, and conclusion. If we add twists, turns, and a rich epilogue, we get a Riddle cocktail—memorable and layered.
What kind of guests typically visit Riddle Bar, and does the guest profile shift with Belgrade’s seasonal events?
Riddle attracts those who value quality time and want to enjoy a space where it’s not about who you are, but what kind of person you are. We once said: “Riddle is open for everyone, but not for anyone.”
Seasonal events in Belgrade do bring more people to the city, but as a bar with limited seating, it doesn’t affect us much. If we were a larger, more commercial space, it might—but then we wouldn’t be Riddle. We’d be something else entirely.
How do you see the role of bars like Riddle in positioning Belgrade as a regional hub for business and social gatherings?
Specialised venues with a strong identity have the potential to host themed events and bring industries together—not just in hospitality, but in related sectors too.
Take Athens Bar Show, for example—perhaps the most attended cocktail bar expo in the Balkans. It’s supported by the tourism board, spirits brands, and bartender associations. Similar events are held in Zagreb, Tirana, Bratislava… We’ve visited nearly all of them and gained valuable insights.
Belgrade certainly deserves such an event and has the regional connectivity to make it a success. There’s already momentum—local colleagues are organising a one-day event for the second year in a row this June, which has the potential to grow into a major regional gathering.
Do you collaborate with local suppliers, and how important is regional identity in your daily operations?
Absolutely. We do our best to support everything produced in Serbia that’s usable in mixology—herbs, fruits, vegetables, spirits, liqueurs, and wines.
Our upcoming plans are focused on increasing international visibility, especially through direct collaborations with bars from the region
As I mentioned earlier, every drink has a story, and that story includes the origin of its ingredients. This helps us create a distinctive identity and flavours that are difficult to replicate elsewhere.
You have extensive experience in hospitality. What are your guiding principles in team leadership and creating an exceptional guest experience?
A team is a mix of individuals with different personalities and strengths. When balanced well, the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. It’s essential to listen, give space for opinions, and support creativity—even when it’s not fully formed. The rest of the team helps shape that idea.
Experience comes down to people. Ambience, lighting, furniture—all of that matters, but the team is what makes the difference. I believe our team truly loves and respects this place. They nurture it and defend its identity. That’s much harder now—six years in, with the bar considered one of the best—than it was when we were starting out.
That’s why selecting new team members is so crucial. Everyone sees the success and wants to be part of it, but few are ready for the backstage effort before the curtain rises.
As our Head Bartender Laki tells the younger team members: “Riddle offers you the world’s sweetest cookies—it’s up to you not to get fat.”
What do you hope guests notice first when they walk into Riddle Bar?
Even when Riddle was just a sketch on paper, the theatre curtain was a symbol I hoped would spark guests’ imagination and curiosity. That curtain is the entry point to the whole story—the first impression. But the longer you stay, the more you notice the details, each placed with intention.
The more you uncover, the clearer the picture becomes of what lies behind the name “Riddle”—and why Riddle is much more than a cocktail bar.
What are your plans for the near future—can we expect surprises, events, or new collaborations?
Our upcoming plans are focused on increasing international visibility, especially through direct collaborations with bars from the region. There are so many amazing bars nearby, and we consider many of them friends. We’re on the right path to uniting around the idea of elevating the Balkan bar scene.
We share similar mentalities and values when it comes to hospitality, and I’m confident we can achieve great things together. I don’t want to reveal too much just yet—it’s still early days—but the reactions so far have been very positive. We’re excited about what’s to come.
Finally, what does a good bar mean to you personally?
To me, a good bar is a place where you feel comfortable and safe, like at home. A place you visit for the experience, and one that leaves you just a little bit happier than when you arrived.
