Chef Spotlight: NICK ACCARDI of Tavola in NYC

Nick Accardi was born in Brooklyn, New York but was raised in Italy in a very food focused family, with constant emphasis on cooking quality, fresh food at home. He learned his craft through apprenticeships with various old school chefs. Accardi opened his first restaurant, Cola's, in Chelsea in 1988. Seven restaurants later, he opened Tavola in Hell's Kitchen in 2012 and continues to serve authentic Italian cuisine. He has now lived in Manhattan 35 years and plans on continuing his families' legacy by bringing true Italian fare to New York City.

Broadwayworld.com had the opportunity to interview Nick Accardi about his culinary career and Tavola in New York City.

What was your earliest interest in cooking?

My earliest interest in cooking started in childhood, I grew up with it. It's almost natural considering I come from a family filled with chefs and foodies. When I was a little boy growing up in Italy, I constantly surrounded by chefs and people in the food industry, so it only makes sense why I enjoy it so much now.

Who were some of your career mentors?

My career mentors have been from various aspects of my life, from family members to people I have worked with throughout my professional career. Especially my previous bosses, they have taught me a lot and have inspired me, long after we've worked together.

What culinary styles have influenced your career?

When it comes to culinary style, Italian is my first love. But I also find that Basque and soul food have blended their way into my cooking style, they definitely have some great elements to bring to the table in their own right.

What do you consider the most distinguishing features of you work as a chef?

As a chef I have a desire to find a niche and really make it my own. With my dishes I emphasize authentic regional Italian farmhouse cuisine. The goal is to have those elements in every one of your dishes; people need to experience it in the food.

What is your favorite meal?

My favorite meal would have to be my mother's Sunday Sauce. I am fortunate to be able to taste various types of foods but that still is number one, it's the ultimate comfort food.

Tell me a bit more about your restaurant for our readers.

I have worked with many restaurants during my career but I can't help but always go back to regional Italian fare. That is what you'll find at Tavola, authentic and fresh cuisine. From the food buying process to the way it is prepared, it has all the elements of classic regional Italian cuisine, that's what makes it so special, the way no detail is spared.

Tavola is located at 488 Ninth Avenue (between 37th and 38th Streets) New York, NY 10018. They serve lunch, dinner and weekend brunch. Tavola also had a complete catering menu. Call them at (212) 273-1181 or visit their web site at http://www.tavolahellskitchen.com/.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Tavola

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