Photo Credit: Cedric AngelAs the son of an on-the-move diplomat, celebrity chef Marc Murphy grew up in Milan, Paris, Villefranche, Rome, Washington D.C. and Genoa. While Murphy originally planned to be a race-car driver, his peripatetic childhood provided an unusually useful background for his ultimate profession as chef. He is likely the only culinary guru who can claim Prince Albert of Monaco was once his babysitter!
Before branching out on his own, Murphy worked with the food world greats like Alain Ducasse at the Louis XV restaurant in Monte Carlo and Sylivan Portay at Le Cirque. His Landmarc restaurant, which opened in 2004, was widely praised for its innovative French-Italian fusion menu. TV viewers know Murphy from his frequent appearances as a judge on Chopped and his face-off against Bobby Flay on Iron Chef. In addition to Landmarc, Murphy helms Ditch Plains, which has two locations in the city. and Kingside at the Viceroy, where he offers a sophisticated take on American cuisine.
Where were you born? Milan
How long have you been in New York? Over 25 years
You lived many places when you were a youngster. How did that effect your cooking style?
I grew up eating in France and Italy so I was lucky to develop a really amazing palette as a kid. The flavors stuck with me and I love to incorporate them into my cooking. Herbs de Provence is a favorite and reminds me of my childhood.
Favorite neighborhood: UWS (Upper West Side)
Best restaurant (beside your own): Baekjeong Korean Restaurant
Best Italian: Crispo
Best French: La Mirabelle
Best steakhouse: The Palm
Best dessert: Caramel Pudding at Kingside
Best bar: Polo Lounge
Best Sunday brunch: Extra Virgin
Night-on-the-town favorites: Broadway or the ballet
Best place for a power business meeting: Landmarc at the Time Warner Center
If you have out of town guests, which hotel would you recommend? The Plaza for its own world charm
Favorite labels: Jon Varvatos or Ted Baker
What’s your favorite dish to cook at home? Roast chicken and vegetables
What dish do you recommend for someone who isn’t a good cook to try? Anything slow roasted, such as Beef Bourguignon. The slow cooking time is forgiving and it sounds impressive!
Best gym/athletic gacility: Central Park…no seriously it’s the best place to run
Favorite charity: City Harvest
Best museum/exhibit: The Met, Manus x Machina
Describe New York in three words: Sleepless, eclectic, energizing
Favorite city historic place to see or explore: Grand Central Terminal
What’s best about New York: It’s a melting pot; we have so many cultures and cuisines to experience and it’s a great walking city.
The secret to your success? Passion
