How’d you get started in the food social media industry?
I have always loved to take photos of food since I learned some food photography from my first job as an editor back in 2011. When I noticed I had so many food photos on my phone, I decided to create a food dedicated account in 2015.
Do you have a particular type of cuisine that is your favorite?
I enjoy tapas and some good wine, steak, Italian, Omakase,
What restaurants in New York do you think are musts for those visiting the city?
For a good steak and French, I would say La Grande Boucherie. For Italian, Carroll Place. For Spanish tapas, Bazar Tapas. For epic boba, Surreal Ice Cream. All other recommendations are on my Instagram.
What changes have you noted in the New York restaurant industry since the pandemic began?
Many have been affected and/or closed unfortunately, and hours have been very different from pre pandemic. In winter 2020, I remember restaurants in NYC only allowed outdoor dining but we New Yorkers still dined in (or rather out) in 30 degree weather because we love our restaurants that much! I remember I was out with other foodies taking photos in the cold weather to support local businesses. But now, things are definitely coming back- some re-branded and opened as new restaurants, others started reopening with regular hours.
What is your favorite thing to cook at home?
I definitely love to add some Japanese twists into what I cook. I am originally from Tokyo, Japan- born and raised. I like to make Japanese fusion pasta, my mom’s recipes etc.
What do you think sets New York apart as a food city?
Every city in the US is very diverse, but NYC has real authenticity in every cuisine. Depending on which area in NYC you go, you always find authentic cuisines made by people from those countries.
We also have pride as immigrants making it in NYC to showcase the food cultures. I also feel fortunate to witness that by connecting with chefs and restaurant owners as a food blogger/ marketer.
Outside of New York, have you been to any other cities that have wowed you with their food?
Dallas- I was connected with a local BBQ restaurant and they have a very good Southern style BBQ platter.
San Diego- I love visiting there especially for authentic Mexican food.
LA- when it comes to Asian cuisines, I felt there were definitely more options.
Where should people go in New York if they want to visit a restaurant that is a hidden gem?
There are countless great restaurants in Manhattan, but Astoria in Queens is full fantastic ones- especially great Greek restaurants. I recently moved from Manhattan to Astoria, and I continuously find great restaurants in my neighborhood.
What is your all-time favorite dish?
This is probably the hardest question… but the dry aged rib eye steak I had at La Grande Boucherie last night has been my absolute favorite for many years!
How has being a food influencer changed your relationship with New York City?
By food blogging in NYC, now I understand the behind the scenes story of each restaurant, which makes me love food in a very different way. Also, since the pandemic, I love the fact that I can be part of supporting local businesses by utilizing my platform.
