Latest news with #NobuMatsuhisa
Forbes
2 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
Inside Nobu's Global Sake Program
Nobu on London's Portman Square. In the world of upscale lifestyle dining, few restaurant and hospitality groups command the international presence and cultural cachet of Nobu. Co-founded by chef Nobu Matsuhisa, actor Robert De Niro, and film producer Meir Teper, the brand is known for its high-end Japanese cuisine and supporting hotel business. After three decades of refinement, the offering is both casual but sophisticated, while Nobu's culinary identity, with its fun Peruvian influence is unmistakable. Underpinning it all is a deep and deliberate focus on sake. Sake, is a Japanese fermented drink made from polished rice, water, yeast, and koji mold. Its flavor profile can vary significantly, from light and crisp to rich and full-bodied, making it a highly versatile companion to Japanese cuisine. At Nobu, guests are encouraged to celebrate that versatility by pairing specific dishes, such as delicate sashimi or umami-rich miso cod, with different sake styles. While the pairings can be fascinating, it's also an opportunity to get your head around the differences between, say, a Ginjo and a Junmai. At every Nobu restaurant and hotel around the world, one producer dominates the sake list however - Hokusetsu, an artisanal brewery from Sado Island, a remote and solitary area of northern Japan. The brewery is privately owned and operated by the Hazu family and has been crafting sake under demanding winter conditions for generations. It was founded in 1871, and since has harnessed the natural characteristics of the territory. 'Delicious sake cannot be made without fresh air and clean water' notes the brewery. 'Sake rice, the raw ingredient, doesn't grow well until the temperature drops. We have ideal conditions for that. This place is perfect.' Hokusetsu's team point out that not only do they cherish traditional values, but, also strive to make sake that people oversees will enjoy. The Hokusetsu Sake Brewery on Sado Island The story behind Nobu's partnership with Hokusetsu goes back some time. In 1987, famed Japanese rock musician Eikichi Yazawa gifted Chef Nobu a bottle of Hokusetsu sake at his Beverly Hills restaurant, Matsuhisa. Struck by its quality, Chef Nobu reached out to his distributors and soon arranged an introduction to Mr. Hazu, owner of the brewery. What began as a professional agreement quickly grew into a lasting friendship and creative partnership. Over nearly 40 years, their collaboration has evolved into a deeper relationship. 'We're connected at a level that goes beyond a business partnership, we're like brothers.' The Nobu team reaffirms this, pointing out it comities to be a 'thoughtful and ongoing collaboration built on shared passion and trust.' Nobu San has invested in a high quality sake partnership with Hokusetsu on Sado island. Over more than three decades, the two have worked closely to curate a range of sakes that complement Nobu's food and reflect its values. 'Sake is a core part of Japanese culture,' says Chef Nobu. 'It was important we got Nobu's sake just right. It is made with the best ingredients and utmost care.' The brewery also feels that the correct balance has been struck, adding that, 'Hokusetsu's sake doesn't intrude on the cooking, but it still manages to assert itself. It complements and enhances the taste of the cooking.' At a time when many sake producers are expanding into the United States and Europe, Nobu has remained resolutely tied to Japan. All Nobu-branded sakes are still produced exclusively by the Hokusetsu brewery on Sado Island. Of course, each territory has its own quirks when it comes to the import and distribution of each product. The Nobu group works with Japanese import specialists to distribute Hokusetsu sake internationally, ensuring that quality is preserved and a full range of expressions can be accessed. This includes many different classifications such as Junmai (pure rice sake with no added alcohol), Daiginjo (highly polished and fragrant), and Nigori (cloudy, with a creamy texture). It also includes custom selections created in collaboration with Chef Nobu himself. Janju Watanabe, chief brewer at Hokusetsu elaborates. 'Food is a language shared through the world and through good sake, food can bridge the gap between cultures. Thanks to Nobu san Hokuetsu's sake has been enjoyed by people all over the world.' Nobu San in London While the source is singular, the presentation varies. Nobu's locations in Europe and the Middle East often carry a more curated selection, typically offering 8 to 10 sakes. In London, particularly at Nobu Hotel Portman Square, the offering is even more expansive, with up to 15 expressions at any given time. Some have the benefit of age and are very, showcasing both Hokusetsu's craftsmanship and more recently, the evolving sophistication of London's sake audience. Among the most distinctive is the Daiginjo YK 35 Enshinbunri, a sake processed using a centrifuge for extraordinary texture. It is full of fresh citrus, melon, and delicate umami, delivered with silk-like precision. Its sibling, the Daiginjo YK 35 Nigori Enshinbunri, maintains that same flavor profile but with a fine milky texture that pays homage to traditional unfiltered styles. For those drawn to complexity, the Cho Daiginjo YK 35 offers notes of lychee, melon, and marzipan. It is made from Yamada Nishiki rice (one of the top grades of Japanese rice used) and polished down to 35% of its original size. Other offerings, such as the Honjozo Yukinohibiki, strike a spicier, more savory chord, with pepper and citrus notes that work beautifully when served warm. A slightly higher temperature will give it more sharpness and a clean, refreshing taste. Moreover, those who prefer some of the mellow elegance that comes with maturation, the Onkagushu 10-Year-Old is delicate, dry with mellow, evolved aromas. Ginjo 71, one of the most popular Sakes on the list. In truth, across all locations, the brand considers two expressions as cornerstones of the program. The Nobu Private Selection, a Junmai Daiginjo handpicked by Chef Nobu, reflects the essence of the collaboration, ie. a bespoke sake chosen to enhance the food. 'Each sake offers something different and can be paired with different dishes,' says Chef Nobu. 'It elevates the dining experience.' Another standout, the Ginjo 71, features a vibrant label designed by Chef Nobu's daughter Yoshiko-san and offers bright citrus and melon aromas with a refined palate. It was sourced as an approachable, yet sophisticated expression of Hokusetsu's house style. It has quickly become one of the most versatile sakes on the menu, balancing acidity with full-bodied richness - an ideal starting point for newcomers. In many ways, Nobu's approach to sake mirrors its culinary ethos: deeply connected with Japanese tradition, but always open to reinterpretation. Chef Nobu was among the first in the West to serve premium sake cold, in bamboo pitchers, at a time when warm sake was the norm. 'With high-quality sakes I recommend you drink them cold' he says. 'Once customers have had this sake, they can't go back to normal sake.' NEW YORK, NY - MAY 30: Chef Nobu Matsuhisa (L) and Robert De Niro speak onstage during the Nobu Downtown Sake Ceremony at Nobu Downtown on May 30, 2017 in New York City. (Photo byfor Nobu Restaurants ) The first Nobu restaurant opened in New York in 1994, and the first hotel followed in 2013. Today, the company is an impressive hospitality force with venues all over the world. Nobu turned 31 last year, an impressive milestone in an industry with a high failure rate and at the constant mercy of fashion. The brand's longevity is matched by remarkable loyalty though. Guests return not just for the food but for the entire Nobu hospitality experience, which they associate with high-end, cosmopolitan lifestyle and a high octane atmosphere. 'Our sake represents my journey,' says Chef Nobu. 'It honors the past but looks forward.' In London the pouring of sake, all the way from the remote island of Sado and toasted in the lively ambience of the Portman Square site, often by guests experiencing sake for the first time, is an echo of that journey. Anyone fast tracking themselves to the top shelf should ask for a bottle of the Daiginjo Black Label.
Tatler Asia
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Tatler Asia
Chef Nobu Matsuhisa on the nuances of a master: 'You have to learn from everything in life'
Chef Nobu Matsuhisa sat across from me with a warm smile that radiates positivity, embodying the essence of cheerfulness, friendliness and humour. His journey through life is nothing short of extraordinary. Today, he is a beacon of Peruvian-Japanese cuisine, renowned for creating luxurious dining experiences that captivate taste buds worldwide. Nobu's name has evolved into a celebrated brand he has dedicated his heart and soul to building. Over the years, he has instilled his passion and beliefs in his team, fostering an ecosystem that thrives on creativity and excellence. Chef Nobu's legacy is not just about food but a shared vision that continues to inspire. Read the full feature to learn about his captivating life story, and to find out what life lessons he values. More from this week's lineup: Cheers, Isabel Martel FranciscoDining editor & deputy editorial director Tatler Philippines
Time Business News
15-05-2025
- Time Business News
Top 7 Luxury Hotels in Munich City
Munich, the Bavarian capital, is a city where old-world charm meets modern luxury. From historic landmarks and world-class museums to upscale shopping and fine dining, Munich offers a high-end experience for every traveler. And when it comes to accommodations, the city boasts a dazzling array of luxury hotels that deliver unforgettable comfort, style, and service. Here are the top 7 luxury hotels in Munich City that promise to elevate your stay in this vibrant metropolis. Location: Promenadeplatz 2-6, 80333 Munich A symbol of timeless elegance, the Hotel Bayerischer Hof is one of Munich's most iconic five-star hotels. Established in 1841, this grand hotel has hosted royalty, celebrities, and heads of state. The interiors combine classic luxury with modern amenities, offering 337 rooms and suites designed by renowned interior designers like Axel Vervoordt. Guests can enjoy gourmet dining at the 2-Michelin-starred Atelier restaurant or unwind at the Blue Spa, featuring a rooftop terrace with panoramic city views. The hotel also offers live jazz at the famed Falk's Bar and a private cinema for a truly indulgent experience. Location: Neuturmstrasse 1, 80331 Munich Nestled in the heart of the old town, just steps from Marienplatz, the Mandarin Oriental, Munich offers sophisticated luxury in a historic building. This boutique-style hotel features 48 rooms and 25 suites, each designed with Asian elegance and German charm. Guests are treated to personalized service, exquisite dining at Matsuhisa Munich (a culinary concept by Nobu Matsuhisa), and access to a rooftop terrace with a heated pool and 360-degree city views. It's a top pick for discerning travelers seeking a peaceful yet central retreat. Location: Sophienstrasse 28, 80333 Munich Surrounded by the green oasis of the Old Botanical Garden, The Charles Hotel offers contemporary luxury in a tranquil setting. This Rocco Forte property is known for its spacious rooms, marble bathrooms, and floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the interiors with natural light. The hotel's Sophia's Restaurant & Bar serves creative Mediterranean cuisine, while the award-winning spa includes a 15-meter indoor pool, sauna, and treatments using premium skincare products. Its proximity to Königsplatz and major museums makes it ideal for culture lovers. Location: Maximilianstrasse 17, 80539 Munich Located on Munich's most exclusive shopping boulevard, the Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski has long been a favorite of international jetsetters. This 5-star hotel combines old-world grandeur with modern elegance, offering lavish rooms and suites with views of the inner courtyard or the historic street. Its lobby lounge is one of the most beautiful in the city, often referred to as the 'living room of Munich.' Guests can indulge at the Schwarzreiter Tagesbar & Restaurant or relax in the elegant spa featuring a Finnish sauna and a heated pool. Location: Marienplatz 22, 80331 Munich If you're looking for boutique exclusivity with a home-away-from-home feel, Beyond by Geisel is the perfect pick. Located directly on Marienplatz, this adults-only residence-style hotel features just 19 uniquely designed rooms and suites, all offering spectacular city views. What makes Beyond truly special is its all-inclusive concept. Guests enjoy complimentary à la carte breakfast, snacks, drinks, and personalized service throughout their stay. With an open kitchen and wine cellar, this hotel delivers a more intimate and luxurious urban experience. Location: Bayerstrasse 12, 80335 Munich Housed in a restored 19th-century post office near Munich's central train station, the Sofitel Munich Bayerpost fuses historic architecture with avant-garde design. Its 396 rooms and suites feature high ceilings, minimalist furnishings, and luxurious details that embody French elegance. Facilities include the award-winning Délice La Brasserie, Isarbar for cocktails, and a serene wellness area with a heated indoor pool, sauna, and steam bath. The central location makes it an excellent base for exploring the city or catching early trains to nearby attractions. Location: Landsberger Str. 68, 80339 Munich Stylish, bold, and unmistakably modern, Roomers Munich caters to trendsetters and cosmopolitan travelers. Part of Marriott's Autograph Collection, this design-forward hotel features dark, moody interiors, sensual lighting, and 280 luxurious rooms and suites. The hotel's standout features include an award-winning Roomers Spa with hot tubs and a Japanese onsen, and an in-house Asian fusion restaurant, IZAKAYA. It's ideal for those who enjoy nightlife, innovative design, and indulgent wellness amenities in one package. Whether you're staying at one of these luxurious hotels for business or pleasure, your journey should be as elegant as your destination. That's where Munich Airport Transfer comes in. We offer premium private transportation from Munich Airport to any of these top hotels in the city. Our professional drivers, luxury vehicles, and door-to-door service ensure you arrive in comfort and style, without the stress of navigating public transport or hailing a taxi. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Forbes
13-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Nobu Brings The Hits To Maui's Grand Wailea
Nobu serves its version of surf and turf at Maui's Grand Wailea. So much of what chef Nobu Matsuhisa does is as intuitive as it is technical. 'It's like my mother's philosophy,' Matsuhisa says moments before the May 3 grand opening of Nobu at Maui's Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort. 'My mother would cook leftovers, open the fridge and get some fish and vegetables and some noodles. It's like, I'm hungry, so my mom opens the fridge and just makes something with leftover ingredients. It's not about a 100 percent perfect recipe. Basically, you don't waste anything.' It was this kind of thinking that led Matsuhisa to create the first version of his iconic yellowtail jalapeño dish with ingredients he found after cooking at a charity dinner more than 30 years ago. Long before zero-waste cooking became a trend, Matsuhisa was just doing what he does and being a pioneer in so many ways. The technical part is there, too, of course. Matsuhisa prides himself on consistency, so he's proud that the new Rockwell Group-designed Nobu in Maui checks all the boxes that make his restaurants what they are. It starts in the kitchen and then extends to the dining room, sushi bar and lanai terrace. 'I see the fish, touch the vegetables, see the colors, understand which one is more fresh,' Matsuhisa says. 'Then I start cooking. I taste. I bite. Perfect dishes don't come the first time. I have to try and then go to the next step.' Nobu Matsuhisa is proud to be a hands-on chef who looks carefully at ingredients and how they are ... More plated. At the new Nobu, guests can enjoy his signature dishes like yellowtail jalapeño, new-style sashimi, spicy tuna crispy rice, creamy spicy rock shrimp tempura and the game-changing miso black cod that was a big reason why Robert De Niro decided to convince Matsuhisa to open the original Nobu in New York. For dessert, there are treats exclusive to Nobu Grand Wailea like a Laie Vanilla pavlova, coconut lilikoi semifreddo and a Kona coffee '3 leches' cake. 'This is a Nobu in Maui,' says Matsuhisa, who's also using Hawaii seafood and produce at the Grand Wailea. 'We like to cook with local ingredients.' This new Nobu is part of a $350 million makeover atthe beachfront Grand Wailea, where lifestyle trends, lifestyle and luxury blend nicely. At the Loulu cafe, there are Erewhon-curated products (from trail mix to magnesium power sticks) and treats like Cosmic Bliss vegan soft-serve. The refreshing Love & Lava Sundae, a collaboration with surfer Kelia Moniza, features Cosmic Bliss with local dragon fruit, Kula Country Farms strawberries, Akasha Superfoods sea moss gel, Blue Majik spirulina powder and candied macadamia nuts. The terrace at Nobu Grand Wailea offers a beautiful backdrop. It's all part of an amenity-laden resort where families can enjoy water slides and a lazy river while those looking for a more grown-up experience can sip cocktails and eat frozen grapes inside a cabana at the adults-only pool. For more significant fuel, the pool-adjacent Olivine restaurant has deeply satisfying wagyu Bolognese atop rigatoni for dinner and also opens for lunch and afternoon snacks. As day turns into evening in Maui, there's also a compelling reason to visit Nobu. Nobu co-founder Meir Teper says his favorite part of this restaurant is the sunset. Sit on the terrace and see for yourself. The sunset pairs well with miso black cod.
Web Release
28-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Web Release
20 Iconic Years of Four Seasons Hotel Doha: A Celebration of Tradition, Luxury and Unforgettable Moments
By Editor_wr On Apr 28, 2025 Four Seasons Hotel Doha this month marked its 20th anniversary, celebrating two decades of timeless elegance, exceptional hospitality, and world-class dining. The hotel honoured its 20-year legacy with a weekend of one-of-a-kind culinary experiences, including immersive masterclasses and an exclusive gala dinner with a menu curated by globally renowned chefs Nobu Matsuhisa and Jean-Georges Vongerichten. Ever evolving yet rooted in its heritage, Four Seasons Hotel Doha continues to shape the region's luxury hospitality scene through meaningful experiences that reflect the city's vibrant culture and diverse culinary landscape. Truly unique dining experiences Four Seasons Hotel Doha brought together two of the culinary world's most celebrated names for a rare and exciting collaboration with two exclusive masterclasses. Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, known for his distinctive blend of Japanese techniques and Peruvian flavours, joined Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, the mastermind behind over 60 acclaimed restaurants worldwide including Curiosa by Jean-Georges at Four Seasons Hotel Doha. At the masterclass on April 25th held at Curiosa by Jean-George, Chef Jean-George taught Chef Nobu to cook his favourite Curiosa dishes. And, on April 26th at Nobu, Chef Nobu taught Chef Jean-Georges to cook the best dishes of Nobu. To elevate this collaboration, the two chefs curated a special, one-night-only gala menu, that was served at the Gala dinner on April 26, offering guests a unique opportunity to experience their iconic dishes. This special event cemented the hotel's standing as a leading culinary destination, home to Nobu Doha (selected by the Michelin Guide 2025) — as well as Le Deli Robuchon, Curiosa by Jean-George (selected by the Michelin Guide 2025), Elements, and Makani Beach Club. For more than two decades, Four Seasons Hotel Doha has attracted global acclaim for its ever-evolving dining scene, blending innovation with authenticity at every turn. The Legacy of Four Seasons Hotel Doha Since opening in 2005 as one of the city's first five-star hotels, Four Seasons Hotel Doha has helped shape the standard for luxury hospitality in the region. Over the years, it has evolved through thoughtful renovations, including a major transformation in 2019, and embraced modern enhancements while preserving its signature warmth and personalised service. Now recognised with a Forbes 5-Star rating for the second consecutive year in the 2025 Forbes Travel Awards, the hotel continues to stand out for consistently offering elevated experiences that feel both timeless and refreshingly current. The Spa and Wellness Center has also been awarded the Forbes 5-Star accolade in 2025, further cementing the property's position as a holistic luxury destination. Adding to this milestone, Four Seasons Hotel Doha collaborated with international contemporary artist Dan Pearce who created an exclusive sculpture honouring the property's 20-year legacy. The piece was unveiled on April 26 during the anniversary weekend, followed by a gala dinner—that made the celebration an even more memorable occasion for guests. Reflecting on the hotel's 20-year journey and this exclusive culinary collaboration, Shadi Suleman, Senior General Manager of Four Seasons Hotel Doha, says: 'At Four Seasons Hotel Doha, we're always looking for new ways to bring fresh, meaningful experiences to our guests – it's what has allowed us to stand out, even two decades on. Our exceptional restaurants are at the heart of these moments, and we were truly honoured to welcome two of the world's most celebrated chefs to mark this special occasion. With immersive masterclasses and a bespoke gala menu, we elevated the culinary experience to even greater heights.' With this landmark anniversary, Four Seasons Hotel Doha continues to embody the convergence of art, culinary excellence, and elevated guest experiences. With its signature blend of timeless elegance and quintessential Four Seasons hospitality, the hotel remains a defining presence in the city's luxury landscape. Looking ahead, the property is poised to inspire a new generation of travellers and tastemakers, setting the stage for many more memorable moments in the years to come. Comments are closed.
