Nobu Hotel Atlanta
Nobu is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a bang. This May, “Taste of Nobu Atlanta” arrived in the city as a part of the international brand’s celebratory traveling dining series, hosted by globally acclaimed chef and restauranteur Nobu Matsuhisa. Held at Nobu Atlanta’s rooftop lounge, the event drew in a crown of local luminaries and gave incomers an inside peek into the North Buckhead location, renowned for its culinary expertise and warm hospitality.
The event featured live chef stations—with a taco bar, robata-yaki and shabu shabu like A5 wagyu Kaburi, konbu broth, umami ponzu and sweet sesame miso—handcrafted cocktails and signature canapes, including assorted sushi rolls and the brand’s beloved yellowtail jalepeño dish. Here, chef Matsuhisa shares how he is celebrating Nobu’s anniversary, divulges the inspiration behind Nobu Atlanta and gives us a sneak peek into what’s next for the brand.
Chef Nobu Matsuhisa (center) pictured at the "Taste of Nobu Atlanta" event
How do you decide which dishes to include on the Nobu Atlanta menu?
Our chefs start by executing our signature dishes while developing an understanding of the Nobu vision and philosophy. We then source ingredients from local vendors in order to make the Atlanta experience unique, like dairy products and peaches.
Are there any signature dishes at Nobu Atlanta that are unique to this location?
This season, we are excited to introduce a local spin on our soft shell crab with watermelon salad. Instead of watermelon salad, this popular dish will be served with Georgia peaches.
What is your favorite dish on the Nobu Atlanta menu, and why?
I can never choose a favorite but when people ask me to recommend a dish, I will always say to try some of the Nobu classics. The black cod miso is our most famous dish, and I’m still very proud of it.
A featured dish at the "Taste of Nobu Atlanta" event
How do you balance your time and creativity across the many Nobu locations worldwide?
I travel about 10 months out of the year. I try to spend time evenly across all of the locations, but it can be difficult. I often visit for specific events. I make sure I have plenty of time to spend with the team while I am there so I can continue to mentor and train.
What opportunities do you see for Nobu Atlanta in the evolving culinary scene of Atlanta?
We hope to continue to attract the local community and introduce them to the “Nobu Way.” We also want to continue to source many of our ingredients locally. We have very talented chefs who are always working to respond to local tastes and add creative twists to our dishes.
What was your vision for Nobu Atlanta, and how does it reflect your overall philosophy for the Nobu brand?
I want to maintain the Nobu standards in Atlanta. As always, I want to provide the best quality ingredients, good, clean food, and good service in a beautiful and welcoming environment.
"Taste of Nobu Atlanta," held at Nobu Atlanta’s rooftop lounge
What inspired the design and atmosphere of Nobu Atlanta?
Like all of the restaurants, we aim to make the atmosphere comfortable and welcoming for all guests. Some highlights include traditional Japanese riverstone wall accents and handmade sake carafes that are on display in the sake room wall. These carafes are designed by ceramic artist Pascale Girardin.
Do you have any future plans or upcoming events for Nobu Atlanta that you can share with us?
This year, we are excited to celebrate our 30th anniversary. Nobu Atlanta will showcase some select items as a part of the celebration. Details are forthcoming, but we are very excited for the guests to experience.
How do you see Nobu Atlanta evolving over the next few years?
We would like to continue to provide good, clean food and exceptional service. We would like to cement our place in the community by participating in local events, both on the hotel and restaurant side.
Signature canapes at the "Taste of Nobu Atlanta" event
What are you most looking forward to during the Taste of Nobu event?
I am looking forward to spending time with the Nobu Atlanta team. I enjoy mentoring and training my teams always. I am also looking forward to meeting all of the Atlanta guests and seeing them happy, enjoying the event.
See also: The 12 Best Atlanta Chefs To Follow
Photography by: Photography courtesy of Nobu Atlanta
