After twenty remarkable years serving the vibrant culinary scene of New York City, EN Brasserie is set to close its doors, leaving a void that will be hard to fill. Known for its authentic Japanese cuisine, the restaurant’s final chapter has been punctuated by a heartfelt “Sayonara party” that celebrated not only its storied history but also the birthday of its beloved owner, Reika Alexander. As the venue prepares to shut down by December 22, many faces from the worlds of entertainment and gastronomy turned out to honor a hidden jewel of the city.
Among the attendees of the farewell gathering were high-profile patrons that included noted personalities such as Dave Chappelle, Chris Rock, and Sofia Coppola. Their presence underscored the restaurant’s significance, not just as a dining spot but as an integral part of the lives of many influential New Yorkers. Martha Stewart, a long-time advocate for the establishment, led the evening with a series of emotional speeches, reflecting on her deep connection with EN Brasserie.
Stewart recounted her initial visits, stating, “I’ve been coming to this beautiful restaurant right when it opened,” her nostalgia evident as she noted the sheer number of times she had dined there. Her experience with the restaurant began when she featured Reika on her show back in 2007, a moment that would propel the eatery into the limelight. “That exposure brought us a wave of new guests,” Reika reminisced in her social media announcement, highlighting Stewart’s crucial role in the restaurant’s success story.
The Dreams and Aspirations Behind the Cuisine
For Reika Alexander, the closure signifies more than just the end of a business; it reflects a journey rooted in passion, dedication, and community. The outpouring of love from friends and loyal customers evident at the party showcases EN Brasserie’s role as a cultural hub. Chappelle encapsulated this sentiment perfectly by stating, “This is not just a restaurant. This is my friend’s dream.” He emphasized the significance of sharing good food and creating memories, echoing sentiments echoed by countless diners over the years.
Chris Rock humorously joined in the narrative, light-heartedly warning of the future of the beloved site: “when they turn this place into a Gap… we’re never going to shop here!” Such banter filled the room with warmth, celebrating the joyful moments that have unfolded within the restaurant’s walls.
As EN Brasserie prepares to close, it leaves behind not only a legacy of culinary excellence but also a strengthened sense of community among its patrons. The closing marks the end of an era for many, instilling a bittersweet sentiment that resonates with the love shared under the restaurant’s roof. While the doors will close, the memories, friendships, and gastronomic joy fostered therein will remain a part of New York City’s vast tapestry. If there’s one truth to be celebrated at this farewell, it is that some restaurants transcend mere dining— they become cherished experiences intertwined with the lives of those around them.
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