Spilling Secrets: Celebrity Chefs Judy Joo and Mark Strausman Dish on their Extraordinary Lives

Mark Strausman and Judy Joo MEGA

Celebrity chefs Judy Joo and Mark Strausman had a conversation discussing his remarkable culinary journey, famous customers, preferred dishes, and much more.

At the age of 67, Strausman takes pride in being the owner of the renowned New York City hotspot, Mark's Off Madison (M.O.M.). This eatery has gained fame for its delectable homemade New York bagels, and its beautiful patio area makes it a must-see destination during the summer.

In the latest edition of We, the chef exclusively tells Joo, 48, about his restaurant. He mentions that the patio is almost the same size as the restaurants and that it is not on the street but adjacent to the building, providing an authentic outdoor cafe experience. The restaurant has received recognition as one of the best 100 restaurants in NYC by the New York Times, a fantastic honor that the chef wishes his late mother could have witnessed. He expresses that he works hard without any expectations, so it is rewarding when achievements like this occur. Explore more of Strauman and Joo's conversation below:

Joo: Your fame largely stems from creating the iconic Fred's at Barneys. When did you realize that being a restaurateur was your true calling?

Strausman: Glenn Bernbaum was my inspiration. I spent six months working at his restaurant, Mortimer's. Although I didn't enjoy it much, as I had experience in Europe and making tomato and onion salad with Russian dressing seemed trivial to me. But observing Glenn's work intrigued me and made me think, "I can do that too." He opened a whole new world to me, which I found fascinating.

JJ: Plenty of big names have dined with you. Who’s been your favorite?

MS: We did a party for Bono and that was pretty cool. Athletes and musicians are always incredible.

JJ: Who’s your dream guest?

MS: Someone who is really relevant today, like George Clooney, Taylor Swift or Harry Styles. You always want a heartthrob in there!

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JJ: The patio at M.O.M. is officially open for the season. What’s your ideal summer cocktail and meal?

MS: It has to be an Aperol spritz — and I think eating a club sandwich or one of my big salads outside is like skipping in Capri, or pretty close.

JJ: What’s your fave dish to make for a crowd?

MS: I prefer bagels or pizza, being a lifelong New Yorker.

MS: That’s like trying to choose between your children. You can’t pick!

JJ: Do you have a go-to bagel order?

MS: Salt bagel, scallion cream cheese, salmon, onion and tomato.

JJ: Best street cart food in NYC?

MS: Chestnuts!