Who Owns Nobu? – Nobu Company History

When it comes to renowned hospitality and culinary experiences, the name Nobu is one that stands out. But who owns Nobu? Let’s take a closer look at the fascinating history of the Nobu brand and its founders.

Key Takeaways:

Nobu Hospitality, LLC was founded by Nobu Matsuhisa, Robert De Niro, and Meir Teper in partnership with Drew Nieporent as the Operator with Myriad Restaurant Group.
Nobu Hospitality is an American company that has grown into a global brand with restaurants and hotels around the world.
The first Nobu restaurant opened in New York City in 1994, offering a unique fusion of Japanese techniques with Peruvian ingredients.
Nobu Hotels entered the market in 2013, providing a blend of modern luxury and traditional Japanese aesthetics.
The founders of Nobu Hospitality bring their expertise in cuisine, acting, and investing, making it a successful enterprise.

Nobu Company Background

Established in 1987, Nobu Hospitality has a rich history rooted in the vision and dedication of its founder, Nobu Matsuhisa. The journey began with Matsuhisa opening his eponymous restaurant, Matsuhisa, in Los Angeles. It quickly gained a loyal following and caught the attention of renowned actor Robert De Niro, who became a regular customer.

De Niro saw the potential for the Nobu brand to thrive in the bustling restaurant scene of New York City and suggested opening a restaurant there. Although initially hesitant, Matsuhisa eventually agreed, and in 1994, the first Nobu restaurant was established. This marked the official beginning of the Nobu brand, renowned for its exquisite fusion of traditional Japanese techniques with vibrant Peruvian ingredients.

The opening of the first Nobu restaurant in New York City was met with tremendous success and critical acclaim. Diners were captivated by the innovative flavors and artful presentations that have become synonymous with the Nobu experience. This fusion cuisine, combining the best of both Japanese and Peruvian culinary traditions, quickly garnered a dedicated following.

Key Milestones
Year

Opening of Matsuhisa restaurant in Los Angeles
1987

Robert De Niro suggests opening a Nobu restaurant in New York City
1994

Establishment of the first Nobu restaurant in New York City
1994

Since its humble beginnings, Nobu has expanded its presence worldwide, offering its unique blend of flavors, hospitality, and style in over 40 locations around the globe. The brand’s success can be attributed to its unwavering commitment to culinary excellence, innovative cuisine, and exceptional dining experiences.

Nobu Restaurants

Nobu Hospitality has gained worldwide recognition for its exceptional restaurants that showcase a unique culinary fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavors. The brand’s commitment to excellence and innovation has made it a global leader in the restaurant industry. With a total of 56 restaurants across the globe, Nobu continues to captivate diners with its remarkable dishes and elegant dining experiences.

The Birth of Nobu

The journey of the Nobu restaurant brand began on September 17, 1994, with the opening of the first Nobu restaurant in New York City. This landmark establishment was a joint venture between Nobu Matsuhisa, Robert De Niro, esteemed restaurateur Drew Nieporent, and investor Meir Teper. The collaboration brought together the culinary genius of Matsuhisa, the artistic vision of De Niro, and the business acumen of Nieporent and Teper, resulting in a dining experience like no other.

A Culinary Icon

At the heart of every Nobu restaurant is its dedication to pushing the boundaries of flavor and presentation. The menu features a range of exquisite dishes, with the black cod with miso as the undisputed signature dish. This delectable creation showcases Matsuhisa’s skillful fusion of Japanese and Peruvian influences, perfectly capturing the essence of the Nobu brand.

A Global Presence

Since its inception, Nobu has expanded its reach to 56 restaurants worldwide. From bustling metropolises to tropical escapes, each Nobu restaurant offers a unique setting while maintaining the brand’s unparalleled standard of excellence. Whether you find yourself in New York City, Los Angeles, London, or Tokyo, the Nobu experience promises an unforgettable culinary journey.

Region
Number of Restaurants

North America
23

Europe
12

Asia
16

Middle East
3

Australia
2

Each Nobu restaurant embodies the brand’s commitment to impeccable service and an inviting atmosphere. The sleek and contemporary designs, combined with the warm and attentive hospitality, make dining at Nobu an unforgettable experience for both regular patrons and first-time visitors.

The success of Nobu restaurants is a testament to the vision and dedication of its founders, as well as the talented chefs and staff who bring the brand’s culinary creations to life. Nobu’s continuous expansion and global recognition reinforce its position as a leading name in the world of fine dining.

Nobu Hotels

Alongside its successful restaurants, Nobu also made its mark in the hotel industry. The first Nobu Hotel opened its doors inside Caesars Palace in Las Vegas in 2013, expanding the brand’s reach beyond the dining experience. Combining modern luxury with traditional Japanese elements, Nobu Hotels offer guests a unique and immersive stay.

Since its inception, Nobu Hotels has continued to grow, bringing its distinctive blend of style and hospitality to various locations. From the vibrant city of Manila to the bustling streets of Atlanta, Nobu Hotels have expanded both nationally and internationally, captivating travelers with their unparalleled service and attention to detail.

As of 2023, there are 36 Nobu Hotels worldwide, each one designed to provide guests with a memorable and authentic experience. The hotels reflect the brand’s origins and commitment to excellence, showcasing a harmonious fusion of modern elegance and the minimalist aesthetics of Japanese tradition.

Year
Location

2013
Las Vegas, USA

2014
Manila, Philippines

2017
Miami, USA

2020
Atlanta, USA

Whether it’s a glamorous escape in Las Vegas or an urban retreat in Manila, Nobu Hotels offer guests an extraordinary journey infused with the brand’s unwavering dedication to quality and innovation. Each destination seeks to create an atmosphere that not only caters to the modern traveler’s needs but also envelops them in the essence of Japanese hospitality.

Founders of Nobu Hospitality

Meet the visionaries behind the iconic Nobu brand – Nobu Matsuhisa, Robert De Niro, and Meir Teper. Each founder has made significant contributions to the success and reputation of Nobu Hospitality, establishing it as a renowned culinary and hospitality enterprise.

Nobu Matsuhisa – Celebrated Chef and Innovator

Nobu Matsuhisa, the world-renowned chef, is the driving force behind Nobu’s exceptional culinary creations. Born in Saitama, Japan, Matsuhisa began his culinary journey at a young age and honed his skills under the guidance of sushi masters in Tokyo. His passion for blending traditional Japanese techniques with bold global flavors led to the development of his signature style – Nobu cuisine.

Known for his innovative fusion dishes, Matsuhisa’s creations reflect his mastery of blending Japanese and Peruvian flavors. His iconic dishes, such as the black cod with miso, have become synonymous with the Nobu brand and have captivated the taste buds of diners worldwide.

Robert De Niro – Acclaimed Actor and Visionary

Robert De Niro, the celebrated actor, and producer, played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Nobu brand. De Niro first encountered Matsuhisa’s culinary prowess at Matsuhisa, the chef’s Los Angeles restaurant, and instantly became captivated by his unique blend of flavors.

Inspired by Matsuhisa’s exceptional cuisine, De Niro approached him with the idea of partnering to bring their culinary vision to New York City. Their collaboration resulted in the opening of the first Nobu restaurant in 1994, marking the beginning of a global culinary phenomenon.

Meir Teper – Enterprising Investor

Completing the trio of founders is Meir Teper, an astute investor who recognized the immense potential of the Nobu concept. Teper’s keen business acumen and financial support played a crucial role in expanding the Nobu brand and transforming it into an international hospitality powerhouse.

Together, these three founders brought their diverse expertise, passion, and creative vision to create a brand that transcends boundaries and delights guests worldwide. Their collective dedication to excellence and innovation has solidified Nobu’s position as a leader in the culinary and hospitality industries.

Through their unwavering commitment to exceptional cuisine, remarkable service, and cutting-edge design, Nobu Hospitality continues to elevate the standards of culinary and hospitality excellence.

Expansion of Nobu

Nobu, the renowned culinary and lifestyle brand, embarked on its global expansion journey in 1997 with the opening of its first restaurant in London. Breaking free from the constraints of the United States, Nobu ventured into international territories, captivating the taste buds of diners worldwide. Since then, Nobu has continued to make its mark on the global stage, expanding its presence with restaurants and hotels in various countries.

What sets Nobu apart is its commitment to culinary innovation and a captivating dining experience. The brand’s fusion of Japanese techniques and Peruvian ingredients has redefined traditional cuisine, creating a unique and delectable culinary journey for its patrons. Accompanied by stylish and modern ambiance, dining at Nobu is an experience that transcends boundaries.

Nobu’s Global Presence

With its expansion efforts, Nobu has established a strong global presence, making its mark in major cities and iconic destinations around the world. Today, Nobu boasts a network of exceptional restaurants and hotels, delivering unparalleled hospitality and delightful gastronomic experiences to its discerning guests. From New York City to Tokyo, from Milan to Dubai, Nobu weaves its magic across continents.

Below is a representation of some of the countries where Nobu has expanded its brand:

Country
Number of Restaurants
Number of Hotels

United States
20
10

United Kingdom
5
3

Japan
3
2

United Arab Emirates
2
1

Australia
2
2

Italy
2
1

Thailand
1
1

These numbers are just a glimpse of the expansive reach of Nobu’s international presence. With each new opening, the brand continues to captivate diners and hotel guests with its impeccable service, attention to detail, and commitment to creating unforgettable experiences.

Stay tuned as Nobu’s global expansion journey continues, bringing its unrivaled hospitality and culinary excellence to new horizons.

Culinary Powerhouse

Nobu has solidified its position as a culinary powerhouse, captivating global audiences with its exceptional dining experience and innovative fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavors. With its distinct blend of tradition and creativity, Nobu’s culinary creations have won the hearts and palates of food enthusiasts worldwide.

At the heart of Nobu’s success are its signature dishes, renowned for their exquisite taste and artistic presentation. One such dish is the iconic black cod with miso, a melt-in-your-mouth delicacy that showcases the brand’s culinary expertise. Another crowd favorite is the New Style Sashimi, a unique take on traditional sashimi enhanced with flavorful sauces and aromatic oils, providing a tantalizing sensory experience.

Nobu’s dedication to culinary excellence has garnered global recognition, earning the brand prestigious awards and accolades. The combination of authentic flavors, quality ingredients, and meticulous preparation techniques has earned Nobu a well-deserved place among the world’s finest dining establishments.

Celebrities and discerning diners flock to Nobu restaurants, not only for the exceptional cuisine but also for the unrivaled ambience and impeccable service. The brand’s stylish and sophisticated interiors create the perfect backdrop for a memorable dining experience, while the attentive staff ensures that every guest feels welcomed and pampered.

With its global presence spanning over 56 restaurants worldwide, Nobu has become synonymous with culinary excellence and luxury dining. Its success can be attributed to Nobu Matsuhisa’s visionary approach to blending flavors and textures, along with the brand’s commitment to providing an unforgettable gastronomic journey.

Why Nobu Stands Out

Culinary Innovation: Nobu’s fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine sets it apart from traditional Japanese restaurants, creating a unique and unforgettable dining experience.

Star-Studded Appeal: Nobu’s reputation as a celebrity hotspot adds to its allure, attracting high-profile guests from the world of entertainment, sports, and business.

Exceptional Quality: Each dish at Nobu is crafted with precision and attention to detail, using only the finest ingredients to ensure an unparalleled taste experience.

Iconic Signature Dishes: Nobu’s signature dishes have become culinary icons, captivating food lovers around the world and inspiring countless imitations.

Innovation in Tradition: While embracing traditional Japanese cuisine, Nobu pushes culinary boundaries with innovative techniques and flavor combinations, appealing to adventurous and sophisticated palates.

Legacy of Nobu Matsuhisa: Nobu’s success is a testament to the extraordinary vision and talent of its founder, Nobu Matsuhisa, who has elevated the brand to global recognition.

When it comes to culinary mastery and global recognition, Nobu continues to reign supreme, captivating diners with its unmatched combination of exceptional flavors, luxurious ambiance, and impeccable service.

Collaborations and Partnerships

Nobu is known for its successful collaborations and partnerships with various companies and individuals, allowing the brand to expand its reach and offerings. These strategic alliances have played a significant role in establishing Nobu as a global hospitality icon.

One notable collaboration was with Crown Resorts, a renowned entertainment and resort company. In 2015, Crown Resorts acquired a 20% stake in Nobu for an impressive US$100 million investment. This partnership not only strengthened Nobu’s financial position but also opened doors for future growth and expansion opportunities.

Moreover, Nobu has joined forces with other luxury hospitality and lifestyle brands, combining their expertise and resources to create unforgettable experiences for guests. By leveraging the unique strengths of each partner, Nobu has been able to offer unparalleled services and elevate its brand identity.

These collaborations have not only expanded Nobu’s global footprint but also allowed the brand to tap into new markets and demographics. By aligning with like-minded companies and individuals, Nobu has been able to reach a wider audience and cater to the diverse preferences of its clientele.

Through its partnerships, Nobu has successfully curated exclusive events, unique dining experiences, and even custom-designed signature products. These ventures showcase the brand’s commitment to innovation and quality, further enhancing its reputation as a leader in the hospitality industry.

By continuously seeking out new collaborations and partnerships, Nobu remains at the forefront of the luxury hospitality market, delivering exceptional experiences that exceed guests’ expectations.

Leadership and Management

Nobu Hospitality is driven by a dynamic and experienced leadership team committed to maintaining the brand’s legacy of excellence and innovation. Headed by CEO Trevor Horwell and COO Struan McKenzie, the company’s leadership ensures the highest standards of quality and service across all aspects of the business.

As CEO, Trevor Horwell brings a wealth of expertise in the luxury hospitality industry. Under his guidance, Nobu continues to expand its global presence while upholding its reputation for delivering exceptional guest experiences. Horwell’s strategic vision has been instrumental in driving the brand forward.

COO Struan McKenzie plays a crucial role in overseeing the day-to-day operations of Nobu Hospitality. With a deep understanding of the hospitality landscape, McKenzie ensures that each Nobu establishment maintains its commitment to excellence in culinary offerings, service, and overall guest satisfaction.

The leadership team at Nobu Hospitality works closely with the founders, Nobu Matsuhisa, Robert De Niro, and Meir Teper, to uphold the brand’s ethos and drive its continued success. With their collective vision, experience, and dedication, Nobu continues to redefine luxury hospitality and culinary excellence worldwide.

Name
Position

Trevor Horwell
CEO

Struan McKenzie
COO

Nobu’s Unique Dining Experience

Nobu offers a dining experience like no other, where guests can indulge in exquisite cuisine, soak in the elegant ambiance, and enjoy impeccable service. The restaurants are meticulously designed with a modern and stylish aesthetic, creating a sophisticated atmosphere that perfectly complements the culinary offerings.

At Nobu, the menu is a testament to the brand’s innovation and creativity. It showcases a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavors, resulting in an extraordinary culinary journey that tantalizes the taste buds. Each dish is meticulously crafted using the finest ingredients, ensuring every bite is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Among the many culinary offerings, Nobu is renowned for its signature dishes that have become iconic to the brand. One such dish is the black cod with miso, a perfectly balanced combination of delicate fish and umami-rich miso sauce. This dish exemplifies the brand’s commitment to delivering exceptional flavors and elevating traditional Japanese cuisine.

In addition to the culinary delights, Nobu’s dining experience is elevated by its impeccable service. The staff is trained to provide attentive and personalized service, ensuring that every guest feels valued and well taken care of throughout their meal.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a romantic dinner, or simply seeking a memorable gastronomic adventure, Nobu offers an unforgettable dining experience that will leave you craving more. The combination of exquisite cuisine, elegant ambiance, and impeccable service sets Nobu apart, making it a culinary destination that should not be missed.

Recognition and Awards

Nobu’s commitment to culinary excellence and innovation has earned the brand widespread recognition and numerous prestigious awards in the hospitality industry. The brand’s restaurants have been acknowledged by renowned organizations and publications, solidifying Nobu’s reputation as a leader in the culinary world.

Some of the notable awards and accolades received by Nobu include:

Award
Date
Description

Michelin Stars
Various Years
Nobu restaurants in different locations have been awarded coveted Michelin Stars, a symbol of exceptional cuisine and dining experience.

World’s 50 Best Restaurants
Various Years
Nobu establishments have consistently been featured on the prestigious list of the world’s best restaurants, further cementing their culinary reputation.

James Beard Foundation Awards
Various Years
Nobu has been recognized by the James Beard Foundation, a renowned culinary organization, for its outstanding contributions to the industry.

Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants
Various Years
Nobu’s Asian locations have been honored on the list of Asia’s best restaurants, highlighting the brand’s regional culinary excellence.

Nobu’s dedication to consistently delivering exceptional dining experiences and pushing the boundaries of culinary creativity has garnered global recognition. These accolades solidify Nobu’s position as a top choice for discerning diners seeking exceptional cuisine and a memorable dining experience.

Future of Nobu

Nobu Hospitality is poised for an exciting future of global expansion and innovation. With its unwavering commitment to culinary excellence and exceptional hospitality, the brand has solidified its position as a premier culinary and lifestyle destination. Nobu’s ambitious plans include opening new restaurants and hotels in captivating new destinations, further establishing its global presence and captivating guests around the world.

As a pioneer in fusion cuisine, Nobu continues to push boundaries and delight diners with its unique blend of Japanese and Peruvian flavors. The brand’s dedication to sourcing the finest ingredients and delivering unforgettable dining experiences sets it apart. Whether indulging in the iconic black cod with miso or discovering new culinary creations, Nobu promises a culinary journey that tantalizes the senses.

But Nobu is not just about exceptional cuisine. It embodies the perfect harmony of modern luxury and Japanese traditions in its hotels. From the elegant design to the impeccable service, each Nobu hotel offers guests an immersive experience that reflects the brand’s essence. With its future expansion plans, Nobu aims to bring its distinctive blend of hospitality and sophistication to even more discerning travelers.

With its sights set on the future, Nobu Hospitality is poised to continue revolutionizing the culinary and hospitality landscape. As the brand expands its global footprint, it remains committed to providing unparalleled experiences, further cementing its status as an iconic luxury brand. With Nobu, the future of extraordinary dining and lifestyle awaits.

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