Charlie Mitchell’s Hit List

Interview with Charlie Mitchell

Words by Max Berlinger
theory magazine charlie mitchell

In his downtime, the two-Michelin-star chef is just as food- and style-obsessed as when he’s on the clock at his restaurant high above New York City.

What was the first meal in New York that really wowed you?

The cold, spicy beef tendon at China Cafe. It opened my mind to street food and things I never had growing up.

Where was the first place you became a regular after you moved to the city?

Wo Hop in Chinatown and Josie’s Bar in the East Village! 

What’s something you do with friends or family who are visiting?

Eat! I always take my family to a good steak house like Gage & Tollner. We also cook at home a lot. My world is very centered around food and bev; it’s what I love. 

If you’re hosting a dinner at home, where do you shop for ingredients?

I go to the Tin Building by Jean-Georges at the Seaport. 

What’s your go-to place to see live music? 

Groove, on the corner of West 3rd and Macdougal Street. They host these cool nights featuring R&B covers. 

Beyond the food, what makes a good service experience at a restaurant? 

The best maître d’s, the best captains, and the best sommeliers are able to connect with you through their personality, while still being very fancy and over the top. 

What’s a restaurant that is worth the money? 

I’m always going to love Eleven Madison Park. And all those really expensive omakases in the city; I appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into them. 

Favorite pizza? 

Well, I’m a fan of Detroit-style pizza. But if I’m getting a slice, I like Prince Street Pizza. 

What’s your favorite martini? 

I won’t pick ours, so probably the Nines. My go-to order right now is a Vesper martini. 

You’re a very stylish guy—where do you shop?  

I love this store in Brooklyn called Ven Space. It’s super sick and right by my coffee shop, Café Noire. Theory’s billboards have caught my eye around the city too. 

How has living in New York changed your style? 

There is no in-between. In New York, you can wear whatever you want. 

Photography: Clement Pascal 

Fashion: Natalie Klein