When Nicholas Harary began working at his local pizza joint at the tender age of eleven, he realized he possessed two traits that would shape his future—an extraordinary work ethic and a passion for the restaurant industry. This discovery would lead him to the Culinary Institute of America (CIA) where he graduated at the age of seventeen.

His culinary education and impressive experience culminated in Restaurant Nicholas, Harary’s own establishment launched in December of 2000 with his wife Melissa. Fast forward 18 years and Chef Harary’s no-nonsense approach to food has made him a celebrated presence in nationwide culinary circles and is recognized by some of the nation’s most respected publications.

Restaurant Nicholas was awarded four stars from The New York Times, NJ Monthly, The Star Ledger and the Bergen Record. AOL named Restaurant Nicholas one of the top 11 restaurants in the country. Restaurant Nicholas has also received the Four Diamond Award from Triple A and remains the highest rated restaurant (food and service) in New Jersey’s Zagat from 2006-present. Chef Harary’s critically acclaimed first cookbook, The Nicholas Cookbook, was published in 2009 and received the Prix Littéraire Gastronomique award and was also an IACP Award finalist.

Chef Harary is a devoted Giants and Yankees fan and treasures being a father to his young children, Nicholas and Juliana.