We joined Nobu Matsuhisa and architect David Rockwell for a luncheon in NYC, celebrating the soft launch of the new Nobu Hotel Eden Roc, in Miami, Florida.
Sushi god Nobuyuki “Nobu” Matsuhisa is not to be underestimated. The vibrant chef has a quiet composure that is even more impressive and jarring when you call to mind his culinary empire that now touches just about every continent. He has perfected the art of the sushi, and is truly committed to the game, now dealing in hospitality. Yes, the reliable luxury of the Nobu name extends itself to the world of hotels, too. Sure, Nobu has dealt in domestic before, he has restaurants in hotels, but now the Nobu experience extends to the room itself, creating a coddling, comfortable experience that is uniquely Nobu.
Nobu is certainly about the food. It is good food and Nobu hand-picks culinary experts around the world to carry the legacy forward. But the culture and lifestyle that surrounds Nobu is the stuff of legend. Kim Kardashian cites it in Kris Jenner’s birthday song: “She’s big on cocktails, Nobu Malibu”. The parking lot at every Nobu is a paparazzi goldmine. And inside? Can you imagine the stories. So it makes good sense for Nobu to take advantage of a genuinely star-studded (and star-adored) brand and apply the magic to hotel. So, starting in January, Nobu Hotel will open in Miami Beach at the iconic Eden Roc hotel. Nobu’s favorite designer David Rockwell was tasked with conceiving the eclectic, suitably Japanese interior, which, knowing Miami, shall be a perfect respite from the neon and the pastel. “The soothing tones are most evident in the bathroom,” says Rockwell, who we spoke with at a private luncheon at Nobu’s original NYC outpost, Nobu 57, “the important thing here is the offset lighting, which brings a particular drama.” The luncheon was an opportunity for the media and those close to the Nobu brand to really get a sense of the new property, with execs of Nobu also joining guests to view renderings of the rooms and entertainment spaces. “It’s all about the experience. From the entryway- the porte cochère- to the check-in desk, it’s all an experience. That’s what really matters.”
Drama indeed, Rockwell was also responsible for the bar in the the Eden Roc and Nobu the chef is preparing dishes for the Nobu restaurant located beachside. The hotel will open in time for Art Basel Miami, but no promises you’ll get a reservation: we’re sure celebrities are already lining up to stay in Miami’s hottest property. But don’t fear, be seen at the hotel bar or the Nobu location, right in the hottest city on earth.
Nobu Hotel Eden Roc will join over nine other future Nobu properties as well as existing locations in Manila, Philippines and Las Vegas, USA, all managed by Nobu Hospitality. Learn more here.
