Chef

As quoted by the New York Times, "Hook demonstrates exceptional talent for marrying flavors and highlighting natural tastes."

Executive chef Jason M. Hook brings to Cafe Nuovo more than a decade of experience working in the finest restaurants in New York City and abroad. Building on his extensive French background, Chef Hook's New American Cuisine is a reflection of an undying commitment to all things fresh, seasonal and local.

After working at Le Bec Fin and the Ritz Carlton, Philadelphia, Jason began his near-decade long tenure in New York City at the Four Seasons Hotel. Progressing through the ranks landed him a transfer within the company to assist in the opening of Georges Le Cinq at the Four Seasons, Paris. From there, he moved on to Lespinasse in the St. Regis Hotel in NYC. This first experience in a New York Times four-star kitchen opened doors to later positions as saucier at Town, in the Chambers Hotel, and as sous chef at the famed Jean-Georges.

Next came a position at Alain Ducasse at the Essex House, a true French kitchen serving haute French cuisine. Working under the tutelage of the fabled Chef Ducasse and Chef de Cuisine Didier Elena, he was again part of a team to usher in the stars - this time a fourth star from the New York Times and a third from Guide Michelin.

Ducasse has played a very influential role in shaping Jason's philosophy. Says Hook, "Ducasse is my mentor. Everything I do today is rooted in his kitchen and my true appreciation for discipline, technique and detail is credited to my time by his side."

Jason went on to open the French master’s second New York restaurant Mix, a fusion restaurant integrating various world cuisines utilizing the same technique and discipline as all Ducasse establishments.

Building on his extensive French background and commitment to supporting local growers and artisans, Jason brings a fresh, seasonal approach to his menu planning. Together, they combine with multi-layered flavor and texture composition to insure our patrons experience the full measure of the high standards and vision set by Jason and his team at Café Nuovo.