Iron Chef Morimoto's 70th Birthday at MM by Morimoto

Jun 11

Jun 11 Iron Chef Morimoto's 70th Birthday at MM by Morimoto

World-renowned culinary icon Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto celebrated his 70th birthday in true Morimoto fashion—with an exclusive, high-energy celebration that doubled as a sneak peek of his newest venture, MM by Morimoto, set to open this July in Montclair, New Jersey.

Hosted at the soon-to-open restaurant at 193 Glenridge Avenue, the private event welcomed a curated list of guests for an evening that blended festive tradition with signature Morimoto flair. The celebration featured a lively pig roast, an elaborate tuna-cutting demonstration, jaw-dropping ice sculptures and an ice luge, and a dramatic birthday cake presentation. Guests were treated to a flavorful array of passed hors d’oeuvres and buffet dishes, offering an exciting first taste of the upcoming restaurant’s menu.

Set to officially debut this summer, MM by Morimoto marks the acclaimed chef’s latest stateside opening—and the first in collaboration with Montclair Hospitality Group. The expansive space spans over 12,000 square feet, with seating for more than 200 guests, and is designed to provide an immersive dining experience that reflects Morimoto’s global culinary vision. Guests can expect an elevated omakase bar, a curated sushi and sashimi program, and a soon-to-be-unveiled grill and protein menu. The beverage program promises handcrafted cocktails, a robust wine list, and a selection of sake and beer, with sushi boxes available to-go for those on the move.

In attendance were friends, collaborators, and culinary notables including actress Lyrica Okano, meat purveyor Pat LaFrieda, Montclair Hospitality Group founder Luck Sarabhayavanija, and pastaRAMEN executive chef Robbie Felice, among others from the local food scene and hospitality industry.

Chef Morimoto’s celebration wasn’t just a birthday—it was a moment of reflection and forward-looking excitement. Known worldwide for his pioneering blend of Japanese and Western cuisines, Morimoto’s career spans continents and decades. From his television fame on Iron Chef and Iron Chef America to his growing portfolio of restaurants—including recent openings in Napa, Jakarta, and aboard Holland America Line’s Nieuw Amsterdam—Morimoto continues to redefine global dining. With MM by Morimoto, he brings his artistry to Montclair, promising a new standard for Japanese cuisine in New Jersey.