Chef Takashi Igarashi at Kajitsu, Toshima-City

Quick Actions

Follow the chef:

About Chef Takashi Igarashi

Chef Takashi Igarashi is a culinary innovator known for his modern Japanese cuisine with an East-meets-West sensibility. He co-founded NR, a popular Japanese restaurant and cocktail bar in New York City, where he reimagines Meiji-era port town vibes through bold flavors and creative presentations. His approach emphasizes imaginative dishes and unique cocktail pairings.

Chef Timeline

Worked as chef at Kyoya

Kyoya

Prior to his current ventures, Igarashi honed his skills at established Japanese restaurants.

Worked as chef at Kajitsu

Kajitsu

Gained experience in traditional Japanese cuisine.

Involvement with ROKC

ROKC

Associated with ROKC, described as a 'spiritual sibling' to NR, indicating a shared innovative spirit before its closure.

2022

Featured for 'Mussel + Beer + Cotton Candy'

His imaginative appetizer was highlighted in 'Flavor & The Menu' magazine.

2025

Co-founded and continues as Chef at NR

NR

Insights

Key Information

Chef Takashi Igarashi is a culinary innovator known for his modern Japanese cuisine with an East-meets-West sensibility. He co-founded NR, a popular Japanese restaurant and cocktail bar in New York City, where he reimagines Meiji-era port town vibes through bold flavors and creative presentations. His approach emphasizes imaginative dishes and unique cocktail pairings.

Customer Perception

Customers consistently praise Chef Igarashi's inventive approach to Japanese cuisine and cocktails. Dishes like the chilled tsukemen, legendary seafood tower, and Hokkaido-style soup curry are frequently highlighted. His willingness to experiment with flavors, such as a blue cheese martini or a melon soda-inspired sipper with prosciutto, is seen as a unique selling point, offering an unexpected and adventurous dining experience.

Cuisine Highlights

Imaginative Japanese foodCreative cocktailsEast-meets-West flavorsMeiji-era inspired dishes

News

In May 2022, Chef Takashi Igarashi was featured for his imaginative 'Mussel + Beer + Cotton Candy' appetizer, praised for its 'carnival of flavors'.
NR, co-founded by Chef Takashi Igarashi, continues to be a modern Japanese restaurant and cocktail bar on the Upper East Side, known for its creative dishes like chilled tsukemen, seafood tower, and Hokkaido-style soup curry, alongside innovative cocktails.

Restaurants by chef

ROKC (now closed), Kyoya, Kajitsu, NR

Iconic dishes

Mussel + Beer + Cotton Candy, Chilled tsukemen, Legendary seafood tower, Hokkaido-style soup curry

Additional Details

Chef Takashi Igarashi co-founded NR with Shige Kabashima, known for his work at Angel's Share. NR is considered a 'spiritual sibling' to the now-closed ROKC, suggesting a continuation of a similar innovative and experimental culinary philosophy. The restaurant is located on the Upper East Side of Manhattan.