Ask any chef worth their salt where they love to dine in New York City and chances are they’ll mention the omakase temple Sushi Noz. Chef Nozomu Abe has left an indelible mark on the most dynamic restaurant scene in the world since opening Two MICHELIN Star Sushi Noz in 2018, followed by the more accessible Noz Market and One MICHELIN Star Noz 17. When he isn’t in the kitchens of his restaurants, you might find him sipping a craft coffee and strolling with his family on the Queens waterfront in Long Island City.
The Hokkaido native loves the spectrum that New York has to offer, from steaks at Peter Luger to Japanese at Two MICHELIN Star odo to hamburgers from JG Melon. Below, the MICHELIN Starred chef shares his favorite low-key museum, his guilty pleasure, and where you'll catch him on his day off.
New York is filled to the brim with cafes. What's your go-to spot for a good cuppa'?
Sweetleaf Coffee Roasters in Long Island City.
How about for a solid breakfast or lunch?
Shio Ramen or Katsu Don at Vert Frais.
Restaurant work often entails late nights. Where do you go for an after-hours meal?
The Penrose or JG Melon.
You're a MICHELIN Starred chef—but where do you go to indulge in a guilty pleasure?
Popeye’s.
What's the best restaurant for celebrating a special occasion?
odo.
Your friend is visiting New York for just 24 hours—where do you take them?
Outside of the restaurant scene, what's your top pick for spending an afternoon in New York?
Noguchi Museum [in Long Island City, dedicated to the work of the renowned Japanese-American artist and landscape architect Isamu Noguchi].
For chefs, R&R is essential. Where we might find you on your day off?
Hanging out at the Long Island City waterfront park with my wife and our 17-month old.
Address book:
Sweetleaf Coffee Roasters
10-93 Jackson AveLong Island City, NY 11101
Vert Frais
43-10 Crescent St, Long Island City, NY 11101
The Penrose
1590 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10028
JG Melon
1291 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10021
odo
17 W 20th St, New York, NY 10011
Peter Luger
178 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Noguchi Museum
9-01 33rd Rd, Astoria, NY 11106
Hero image: Courtesy of Chef Nozomu Abe
