Already an established force in the revitalization of Boston’s Downtown Crossing, the Yvonne’s team continues to energize the neighborhood, this time with a contemporary Peruvian restaurant called RUKA in the newly opened Godfrey Hotel Boston. When RUKA opens later this year on the ground level of the hotel, the group behind Yvonne’s will expand on its signature style of high-touch social dining with a Nikkei-inspired concept that harnesses the bold, vibrant flavors of Latin cuisine, tempered with polished Asian techniques and presentations.
Several exploratory trips to Peru over the past year have informed the forthcoming restaurant’s décor, ambiance, beverage, and culinary programs. RUKA has been meticulously developed by Christopher Jamison and Mark Malatesta in partnership with Culinary Director and Chef Partner Tom Berry, and Ting Yen of the internationally acclaimed Oishii restaurants. Executive Chef Preston Miller, who spent four years working under April Bloomfield at Michelin-starred New York City restaurant The Breslin, will helm the kitchen at the new restaurant. The menu integrates elements of traditional Peruvian cooking while emphasizing the heavy influence of Japanese ‘nikkei’ and Chinese ‘chifa’ cuisine that have become inextricably intertwined with the contemporary culture of Peru. A world-class sushi program highlights the ingredients and extraordinary flavor profiles of the coastal South American country. The group’s Beverage Director, Will Thompson, the creative influence behind Yvonne’s critically lauded beverage program – spearheads RUKA’s cocktail program that is similarly rooted in the diverse regions of Peru & Japan.
Most recently, the group introduced Boston to Yvonne’s, a modern interpretation of the supper club. Since opening in September 2015, Yvonne’s has paid homage to the decadence of its predecessor Locke Ober, while offering Boston a truly unique high-energy, playful, yet service-oriented experience. With a menu centered on social dining, Yvonne’s caters to groups looking for sharable plates in a setting that keeps glasses raised and conversations buzzing.
Opening fall 2016 off the lobby of The Godfrey Hotel Boston, RUKA will welcome hotel guests, locals, and travelers alike for a taste of Nikkei in the heart of Downtown Crossing.
