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The much-anticipated opening of Okaru has just been announced for Roslyn.
The brainchild of chef and partner Marc Spitzer, Okaru will open Thursday, Jan. 30, at 1401 Old Northern Blvd. in the downtown area.
Spitzer is the executive chef and a partner at BondST, which is among the most popular Japanese restaurants in New York City — with locations in NoHo and Hudson Yards.
(BondST was just in the news last month for playing host to superstar couple Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce.)
“I am bringing the same mentality as we have always had at BondST; consistency while still evolving has always been the goal, so I strive to do the same at Okaru,” Spitzer, 46, told Greater Long Island. “I will be focusing on more Long Island fish and produce when the seasons allow, and create some new dishes based on those ingredients. I am still bringing all peoples favorites but also want to offer some new items.”
Spitzer, who was born, raised and still lives in Plainview, has teamed up with Noam Shemel, principal of Kano Real Estate Investors, to open Okaru together.
The two-story, 110-seat space designed by Carlita Alexander was built out over the course of months in an historic building that dates to 1890. The menu will feature modern and traditional Japanese-inspired dishes alongside an ingredient-driven cocktail program — along with selections of sake, wine and beer.
In Roslyn, Spitzer will be a fixture in the kitchen.
“I will always be in the kitchen while at the restaurant, but my role is managing the day to day operations as well,” he said. “I have my hand in all areas of the restaurant — no job is too big or small. During service, my focus will be in the kitchen while still being closely involved with the front of the house, service and bar. I also designed the menu, and trained the kitchen staff.”
He will remain on at BondST as well.
“But I will be focusing on OKARU as it is my own project and is closer to home on Long Island,” he said. “After commuting into the city for the last 28 years, it allows me with more time, most likely at the restaurant but at least not in traffic!”
— all photos courtesy of Okaru
