Chef Shige Kabashima at ROKC, Queens

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About Chef Shige Kabashima

Shige Kabashima is a renowned cocktail visionary and co-founder of several acclaimed New York City establishments, including NR and ROKC. He is celebrated for his innovative approach to mixology, crafting creative cocktails that often feature unexpected flavor combinations. His restaurants are known for reimagining Meiji-era port town aesthetics and offering a modern take on Japanese cuisine alongside his distinctive beverage program.

★Awards & Recognition

★The Fine Sake Awards Japan Gold Prize (S… (2024)

Chef Timeline

Cocktail Visionary & Founder

Angel's Share

Associated with the critically acclaimed speakeasy bar.

Co-founder & Cocktail Visionary

ROKC

Founded ROKC, which was known for its ramen and cocktails, and is considered a predecessor to NR.

Co-founder & Cocktail Visionary

NR

Co-founded NR with Chef Takashi Igarashi, continuing the innovative spirit of ROKC with modern Japanese fare and creative cocktails. Opened in the Upper East Side, NYC.

2025

Featured Cocktail Visionary

SAKECON NYC Fall ~SAKE DAY '25

Participation in a major sake event, highlighting his expertise in Japanese beverages.

Insights

Key Information

Shige Kabashima is a renowned cocktail visionary and co-founder of several acclaimed New York City establishments, including NR and ROKC. He is celebrated for his innovative approach to mixology, crafting creative cocktails that often feature unexpected flavor combinations. His restaurants are known for reimagining Meiji-era port town aesthetics and offering a modern take on Japanese cuisine alongside his distinctive beverage program.

Customer Perception

Customers praise Shige Kabashima's establishments for their 'impressive craft cocktails' and 'creative cocktails' with 'bold flavors.' The atmosphere is often described as having a 'relaxed swag' and 'serious edge,' offering an 'East-meets-West energy' and a 'constant pulse of creativity.' Dishes like the chilled tsukemen and Hokkaido-style soup curry are highlighted for their unique appeal.

Cuisine Highlights

Craft CocktailsJapanese FareRamen & Small BitesMeiji-era Port Town Vibes

News

NR, co-founded by Shige Kabashima, is recognized as a modern Japanese restaurant and cocktail bar on the Upper East Side of NYC, known for its chilled tsukemen, legendary seafood tower, and unique Hokkaido-style soup curry. It continues the innovative spirit of the former ROKC.
Shige Kabashima is featured at SAKECON NYC Fall ~SAKE DAY '25, an event celebrating sake and Japanese culture, where 'The Fine Sake Awards Japan 2024 Gold Prize' sake is highlighted, further underscoring his connection to premium Japanese beverages.

Restaurants by chef

NR, Angel's Share, ROKC

Iconic dishes

Chilled Tsukemen, Legendary Seafood Tower, Hokkaido-style Soup Curry, Blue Cheese Martini (cocktail), Melon Soda-inspired Sipper w/ Prosciutto (cocktail)