When passion, determination, and the best Albanian values come together, dreams can be realized anywhere by anyone. The result of such success is the restaurant "Duomo 51" with three Albanian partners in New York. For the past year, Zamir Gashi, Mariglen Dine, and Alban Jakupaj have been offering a destination for customers who love Italian cuisine and more, all under the care and expertise of Chef Vilfrid Hodoj. Probizz.al interviewed one of the partners, Mariglen Dine, who not only shares the unique experience of gastronomic service at "Duomo 51" but also reveals that their next project is the opening of a hotel and restaurant in Albania.
When did the planning for Duomo 51 begin, and why did you choose an Italian name when located in NEW YORK and with three Albanian partners?
The project called "Duomo 51" started no more than 1 year ago. It's a combination of two different elements in its name. "Duomo" is a term traditionally used in Italy to describe the large cathedrals in various cities in Italy, and since the cuisine is Italian, and the restaurant in New York has a view of St. Patrick's Cathedral, we chose Duomo.
"51" is a number used to mention the exact street in New York, which is 51st Street.
How challenging was it to position the restaurant as one of the best in New York?
In New York, it's a great challenge because it's a large city with high competition in the food industry. But if you are dedicated, you can achieve it. It also requires a combination of good gastronomic values, excellent service, good business management, and a well-integrated marketing strategy.
Has it recently been selected by the prestigious Forbes magazine? What do you think was most appreciated at the restaurant, the cuisine, innovations, service, etc.?
The hospitality that characterizes us Albanians is one of the key factors. But also the cuisine, an extraordinary experience with creativity in cooking and presentation by our chef Vilfrid Hodoj. Excellent service, ambiance, and design are also crucial. A combination of all these elements creates an exceptional experience in a restaurant rated by Forbes and similar magazines.
With three Albanians running the business, what role do Albanians play in your business?
Albanians in "Duomo 51" include the hospitality and staff that we are very proud of.
How much has its location (gradeçieli 25 West on 51st St. between 5th Ave & 6th Ave) contributed to it being frequented so much?
The location of DUOMO51 is an important factor, a very good location in the center of Manhattan in New York City, an area with a lot of activity and tourists.
Being close to Rockefeller, Radio City, and St. Patrick's Cathedral in the center of Manhattan, one of the most visited destinations in the world, creates convenience for tourists visiting the city and willing to spend on a special dinner. Besides tourists, a restaurant with this location has the potential to attract local customers and business employees in the surrounding area for lunch or dinner.
In the Duomo51 area, there may be many other alternatives but also high competition. This requires each restaurant to maintain a high standard to attract and retain customers.
However, it is essential for the quality of food, service, and customer experience to remain high to ensure long-term success.
Do you plan to expand DUOMO 51 to other American cities?
The next objective is to open a hotel and restaurant in Albania to offer a unique accommodation and gastronomic service experience in our beautiful but still underrated country, Albania.
We aim to create an attractive destination for local and foreign tourists, using the natural beauties of Albania and presenting the culture, cuisine, and traditions of the country authentically. We want these customers to feel cared for and drawn to excellent service, attention to detail, and a friendly and relaxing atmosphere. Through this objective, we aim to contribute to the development of tourism in Albania and help promote the beauties and potential of this unique country.
Mariglen Dine | Manager
Duomo51 Restaurant Rooftop New York Midtown – 5th Avenue
25 W. 51st Street 7th floor, New York, NY 10019
Direct: 1 (917) 572 1368
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