After two illustrious decades of delighting palates, EN Brasserie in New York City is set to close, leaving a significant void in the dining scene. This beloved Japanese restaurant finds itself at the bittersweet intersection of celebration and sadness. Its farewell comes not just as a closing but as a tribute to its long-standing legacy, which has enjoyed a dedicated following among locals and celebrities alike. The restaurant’s final chapter is marked by a poignant “Sayonara party,” coinciding with the birthday of its esteemed owner, Reika Alexander.
The farewell event, held recently, was a star-studded affair featuring renowned personalities like Dave Chappelle, Chris Rock, and Martha Stewart. Stewart, a foundational supporter of EN Brasserie, took the stage to share her deep connection to the restaurant. She recounted countless visits, estimating attendance of approximately 400 times since its inception. Stewart’s remarks not only highlighted her fondness for the establishment but also underscored the role she played in propelling it into the limelight. Her appearance on her cooking show in 2007, where she featured Reika’s tofu-making skills, was a pivotal moment that introduced the restaurant to a broader audience, a fact Reika acknowledged with heartfelt gratitude.
As the evening unfolded, it became clear that this gathering was not merely a farewell but also an acknowledgment of the bonds formed through shared meals and experiences. Stewart’s emotional delivery during her speech illustrated the sense of loss felt by many. “We’ll be very unhappy when it’s not here anymore,” she shared, expressing how integral EN Brasserie has been to her life and that of her grandchildren. Such sentiments were echoed by others in attendance, indicating the restaurant’s impact on a personal level.
Chappelle and Rock contributed to the evening’s spirit with humor and heartfelt messages. Chappelle honored the venue’s significance by celebrating it as more than just a dining spot but as a manifestation of a friend’s dreams. Rock’s comedic relief echoed the sentiments of loyalty, playfully vowing to never shop at the potential new store that might occupy its space.
As EN Brasserie prepares to close its doors for good on December 22, the memories created within its walls will undoubtedly linger. The restaurant not only provided culinary delights but also served as a gathering place for communities and friendships. It is a painful but fitting conclusion to a restaurant that has played a foundational role in the lives of many, reminding us of the powerful connections forged through food.
Ultimately, while we bid farewell to EN Brasserie, we celebrate its legacy—the delicious dishes, the heartfelt gatherings, and the countless memories that will resonate long after its last serving. In a world where culinary establishments frequently come and go, EN Brasserie’s departure is a poignant reminder of the ephemeral nature of such experiences. With gratitude and fondness, we mark the end of an era, while holding onto the unforgettable moments that this exquisite restaurant has given to its patrons.