At Semma in the West Village, diners get a taste of Chef Vijay Kumar’s childhood. Kumar told The MICHELIN Guide, “The whole entire menu is based on my childhood memories. I grew up helping mom and grandma. They were my first inspiration.”
Although the South-India-born chef earned his stripes in MICHELIN Starred restaurants in California, today he calls New York City home. When he’s not crafting bold flavors behind the stove, he’s out discovering NYC’s endless gems. We sat down with him to uncover his top spots in the city.
And, to read our Inspectors' take on Semma, click here.
New York City has so many great coffee spots — do you have any favorites?
Bluestone Lane, which is right across the street from Semma, or Kolkata Chai Company for a taste of home.
Go-to spot for breakfast or lunch?
Clinton Street Baking Company
Restaurant life often entails late nights. What's your after-hours go-to?
Kati Roll or Mamoun’s Falafel
In a city with plenty of places to indulge, what's your ultimate guilty pleasure?
Los Tacos No.1 at Chelsea Market, tacos from Jalapeño Food Truck while on my way to catch the Path train home , and dollar pizza from the pizzeria around the corner from Semma.
Where would you go for a special occasion?
Let's say someone is visiting from out of town. Where do you take them for a taste of NYC?
Tell us about one of your favorite places in New York City.
One of my favorite spots in NYC is the path by the Hudson River in the summertime. It always feels so magical and refreshing to get the breeze from the river while enjoying the breathtaking views.
Working in a MICHELIN Starred kitchen, rest is a requisite. Where might we find you relaxing on a day off?
I love to take short road trips and explore the nearest natural attractions and enjoy the local food scene.
Address Book:
Bluestone Lane
locations across NYC
Kolkata Chai Company
60 Kenmare St, New York, NY 10012
Clinton Street Baking Company
4 Clinton St, New York, NY 10002
Kati Roll
locations across NYC
Mamoun’s Falafel
119 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012
Los Tacos No.1
Chelsea Market
75 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011
Frenchette
241 W Broadway, New York, NY 10013
COTE
16 W 22nd St, New York, NY 10010
Don Angie
103 Greenwich Ave, New York, NY 10014
Dame
87 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012
Hero image: Courtesy of Vijay Kumar
