Chef Charlie Mitchell is set to bring a new sound and taste to Saga as the restaurant reopens on September 1. The two-Michelin-star restaurant, located on the 63rd floor of a skyscraper at 70 Pine St. in Manhattan’s Financial District, will now feature a nostalgic ’90s R&B and soul playlist curated by Mitchell himself.
Taking over Saga in 2024 after the sudden passing of chef Jamal James Kent, Mitchell has made the space and menu entirely his own for the reopening. Influenced by the food he enjoyed as a child, Mitchell’s menu at Saga will showcase flavors from his grandmother’s Southern cooking, his Detroit upbringing, and his experiences in New York City.
Seafood and seasonal vegetables take center stage on Mitchell’s menu, with dishes like a tempura-style fish fry and cornbread topped with gold Osetra caviar. Other items on the menu include Tsuyahime dirty rice, warm potato salad, and a Moroccan tea service to end the meal.
In a departure from Kent’s larger, shareable menu, Mitchell’s new approach involves smaller, chef-directed plates to give diners a more intimate and controlled culinary experience. Mitchell, who previously earned a Michelin star at Clover Hill and won a James Beard Award for Best Chef: New York State, is excited to bring his unique voice to Saga.
The remodeled space at Saga pays homage to the Financial District of the 1990s, with black marble tabletops and staff uniforms designed by Sergio Hudson. With a team of 100 staff members and open seven days a week, Mitchell is ready to meet the new expectations that come with the expansion of Saga.
Reflecting on his journey as a chef, Mitchell shares that he is still figuring out his cuisine and voice, but remains committed to creating an intimate dining experience for guests. As he prepares to reopen Saga, Mitchell is excited to share his love of cooking with diners and hopes to create a memorable experience for all who visit the restaurant. the perspective of an experienced hiker about the importance of proper gear and preparation when embarking on a hiking trip.
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Proper preparation is just as important as having the right gear. Research the trail you plan to hike, including its difficulty level, length, and any potential hazards. Check the weather forecast and plan your trip accordingly, being mindful of any changes that may occur while you are out on the trail.
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In conclusion, proper gear and preparation are essential for a safe and enjoyable hiking experience. By investing in quality equipment, dressing appropriately, and planning ahead, you can mitigate risks and ensure a successful adventure in the great outdoors. Remember, the wilderness can be unpredictable, so it is always better to be over-prepared than underprepared when hitting the trails.
