As the chef at 10 Cubed in New York City, Nduvo Salaam prepares dishes that blend his Afro-Caribbean roots with classic French technique on the 100th floor of Central Park Tower, one of the tallest residential buildings in the world. However, his work can feel anonymous, even as he serves the wealthy and powerful residents of the building.
Private restaurants within luxury apartment buildings are becoming increasingly popular, with high-end real estate developers incorporating them into their properties to attract top clients. At 10 Cubed, Nduvo Salaam is one of the few chefs who get to create menus for such restaurants. While some may see it as a coveted opportunity, others may view it as a step away from the high-pressure world of public restaurants.
Nduvo Salaam’s journey to 10 Cubed was not an easy one. Born to a Jamaican mother and Nigerian father, he grew up in Jamaica, where he was taught to cook by his mother. He later moved to the United States, where he studied culinary arts and fine dining, working in some of New York City’s top restaurants.
Despite his success, Nduvo Salaam still longs for the recognition and critical acclaim that some of his peers, who work in public restaurants, often receive. He wishes for the validation that comes with being reviewed and critiqued by food critics and bloggers. In an industry where social media has elevated the profiles of many chefs, Nduvo Salaam feels left out of the spotlight.
As he navigates the world of private dining, Nduvo Salaam has learned to adapt to the unique pressures and expectations of his clients. He has developed a thick skin, essential for a chef who serves the 1 percent. However, he still hopes to have his food appreciated and critiqued by those who can understand his craft on a deeper level.
In the end, Nduvo Salaam’s story serves as a reminder that even in the high-stakes world of fine dining, talent and hard work can take you only so far. It is the connections, opportunities, and breaks that one can make along the way that truly make all the difference.
