INTERVIEW WITH MICHELE GRIFFO, GENERAL MANAGER OF SUGARSAND

Could you please tell us a little bit about yourself?

Born and raised in Italy I always had a passion for F&B industry. This passion gave me the opportunity to travel and expand my experience in England, Switzerland, China, Malaysia and now Indonesia.

Bali is now my new home since 7 years and loving every single moment in it!

With numerous beach clubs available in Bali, tell us what makes SugarSand so different than others.

SugarSand is so much more than a beach club. We have a fantastic restaurant offering Nikkei cuisine and our cocktails have been carefully crafted and inspired by reinterpretations of the classics. SugarSand is also more intimate compare to other venues, thanks also to our design, music and ambiance. We offer a completely new experience in Seminyak.

What is the most challenging thing in your current position you have experienced so far and why did you decide to work in Bali?

Challenges are a good thing. I see them as a motivation to constantly improve myself and the team I work with.

It is actually a funny story on how I came to live and work in Bali. When I got my first job in Indonesia it was for Potato Head in Jakarta but I actually never worked there as they immediately transferred to their Beach Club here in Bali where I worked for the next 4 years. So now here I am!

Share with us the most memorable moment that has ever happened during your career

It is hard to pick only one moment but for me the most memorable moment was when I first got a job as a part time in Italy. I was just 16 years old and as soon as I got behind the bar I was captivated by atmosphere, noise, smell and vibe there was. It was then I knew I wanted to work in Hospitality.

If you could pick one place to be your dream destination anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

I am lucky enough to be in a dream destination. Bali is an incredible place! Reach in culture with an amazing natural landscape and incredible F&B scene. It is hard to find a better place than Bali where you can be fulfilled both in your personal and professional life.

If you were given a chance for a fix up in life, what would you do differently?

Nothing! There is no time to have regrets in life, the only way is forward and every experience (even mistakes) must be accepted as a learning curve in your life.

What do you think your strongest personal quality is?

I been told I am very sociable and quite funny. I love to joke around and work in a professional but FUN environment. Also all the traveling helped me in being very open minded and adaptable to changes.

What goals do you have for the New Year?

If we are talking professionally than my goal for the New Year is to put SugarSand on the map as one of the best beachside restaurants and bars in Bali. The competition is very tough but I am confident with the effort all the team is putting in and it shall be rewarded.

What do you do for fun during your day off?

During my day off I love getting on my bike and ride around Bali, especially going north where the roads are more empty and you can really appreciate the beauty of the island.