Chef Akira Back (Seung-wook Back), who gained international recognition on the U.S. culinary survival show Iron Chef America, is set to open a new restaurant in Los Angeles Koreatown. His Japanese restaurant, named Norikaya, will begin serving guests in mid-August at 554 S. Western Avenue in Koreatown.
The name “Norikaya” combines “Nori”, the Japanese word for seaweed, and “Kaya”, short for Izakaya, promising to blend the flavors of Japanese cuisine with the vibrant atmosphere of an izakaya. The menu will feature a variety of ingredients, including tuna, caviar, Otoro, Uni, and smoked Kampachi, with dishes priced between $8 and $25 per plate.
The bar will seat 20 people, and the interior is designed with gold accents to create a luxurious yet Asian-inspired aesthetic. Chef Back commented on Norikaya, saying, “We have harmoniously blended traditional Japanese cuisine with modern elements. We strive to express the flavors and artistry of Japan.” He co-founded Norikaya with his partner Robert Kim, who also co-runs ABSteak.
Regarding his choice of location, Back said, “LA Koreatown is known for its trendiness, international culinary and nightlife scene. It’s a vibrant and culturally rich neighborhood, so we thought there was no better place to be.”
Originally from Seoul and a former snowboarder, Back transitioned to cooking after retiring from the sport. He says working in the kitchen allows him to recapture the excitement of his snowboarding days. He describes his cooking style as “based on my mother’s ‘home cooking’ and inspired by the different cultures and cuisines I’ve experienced while traveling the world.”
“My dishes are like a melting pot of cultures,” he added. “I want my guests to experience different cultures and the world through my food.”
Akira Back’s modern Japanese restaurant brand, “Akira Back,” is located in 28 cities around the world, including Seoul, Paris, Las Vegas, Beverly Hills, and San Diego. His signature dish, the Tuna Pizza, combines tuna and truffle oil on thin-crust dough and has captivated the taste buds of gourmets.
Other brands include Dosa By Back Seung-wook in Apgujeong-dong, South Korea, and ABSteak, an upscale Korean barbecue restaurant in Hollywood, Los Angeles, further establishing his reputation for providing exceptional dining experiences.
BY HAEUN CHUNG, HOONSIK WOO [chung.haeun@koreadaily.com]
