Swiss Training to Terrapin Triumph: Swiss Training to Terrapin Triumph: Djan Paunovic’s Hospitality Journey

Norm chats with Djan Paunovic, whose remarkable career spans continents and decades in the hospitality industry. Born in Brooklyn and raised in Switzerland, Djan now serves as a cornerstone of Rhinebeck's dining scene at Terrapin Restaurant.
Djan shares his stories from his early career in Switzerland, working at prestigious establishments like the Robinson Club and ski resort bars. Most remarkably, as a teenager navigating his parents' divorce, he traveled solo across Europe to reconnect with family, demonstrating the independence that would serve him throughout his career. Returning to the United States, Djan played a key role in opening the Emerson Resort and Spa with Dean Gida. Though he briefly considered relocating to Colorado, a conversation with Terrapin Restaurant owner Josh Kroner led to what became his professional home for the past 17 years, where he serves as lead manager and beverage director. Djan discusses his personal life, including his pride in his children, who occasionally help at the restaurant but wisely chose different career paths. He candidly addresses industry challenges from COVID-19 impacts to staffing difficulties, while sharing entertaining celebrity encounters. His philosophy remains consistent: every guest deserves exceptional treatment regardless of their status.
They explore Djan's Yugoslav heritage, including traditional foods and the craft of making slivovitz, a plum brandy that connects him to his cultural roots. These discussions reveal how his diverse background enriches his approach to hospitality.

Produced by Norm Magnusson, Jennifer Hammoud, and Matty Rosenberg @ radiofreerhinecliff.org

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