In the bustling heart of New York City, EN Brasserie has been a cherished culinary landmark for two decades. The renowned Japanese restaurant, beloved by locals and celebrities alike, is set to close its doors permanently on December 22. This bittersweet farewell is marked not only by nostalgia but also by a heartwarming celebration of its 20-year journey, attended by an array of notable patrons who have continuously supported the establishment.
This past Friday, a poignant “Sayonara party” transformed into a memorable birthday celebration for the restaurant’s owner, Reika Alexander. The event drew an impressive crowd, including prominent figures such as comedians Dave Chappelle and Chris Rock, filmmaker Sofia Coppola, artist Marina Abramović, and model Maye Musk. Each guest contributed to an electric atmosphere, filled with laughter and fond memories of the culinary experiences they had shared at EN Brasserie.
Stepping into the spotlight, Martha Stewart, a significant figure in the restaurant’s history, took the lead in the evening’s tributes. Her stories echoed the deep connection she had formed with the venue over the years. Stewart’s repeated visits since the restaurant’s inception have made her a staple. “I’ve probably dined here around 400 times—at least once a week,” she affirmed, emphasizing the role EN Brasserie played in her and her grandchildren’s lives.
Martha’s influence on the restaurant cannot be overstated; she was instrumental in introducing EN Brasserie to a broader audience. Her 2007 television appearance with Reika, where they showcased the art of tofu-making, proved to be a pivotal moment for the restaurant. In the wake of that exposure, Reika reflected on the surge of new customers and described Stewart as one of her “biggest supporters.” The sentiment of gratitude echoed throughout the night, as guests expressed their appreciation for both Reika and the culinary haven she created.
As the evening unfolded, various speakers, including Chappelle and Rock, highlighted the restaurant’s impact. Chappelle passionately articulated that, for him, EN Brasserie represented not just a place to dine, but a realization of his friend’s dream. He articulated the intrinsic value of sharing good food among loved ones, framing it as a fundamental joy of life. Meanwhile, Rock playfully remarked on the possibility of seeing the venue transformed into a commercial establishment in the future, showcasing a lighthearted yet poignant acknowledgment of the changing landscape of the dining scene.
The impending closure of EN Brasserie marks not just the end of an eatery but the conclusion of a beloved chapter in the culinary history of New York City. As patrons leave with remnants of cherished memories, the heartfelt tributes paid during the farewell celebrations serve as a reminder of the community, friendship, and artistry that flourished within these walls. EN Brasserie will be greatly missed, yet its legacy will undoubtedly resonate long after the final curtain falls on its storied history.