Jon Stojan
Image credit: Adir Cohen and Liad Ichiye
Adir Cohen and Liad Ichiye are two passionate chefs who are rebuilding the culinary empire in Los Angeles. Through all the obstacles, the two chefs have built a collection of restaurants that provide customers with high-end kosher food and an unforgettable experience.
A Partnership Born in Israel
Adir and Liad first met in Israel while working at the Herbert Samuel restaurant, a top-rated restaurant in the country. After some time, the team split up. Years later, Adir and Liad decided to reunite and bring their culinary experience to the city of Los Angeles. They had a mission to bring a taste of their Mediterranean roots to the city’s food scene.
While going out with friends and family is fun for other people, for these two chefs, the fun begins with food. With this as their guiding principle, Adir and Liad envisioned creating a dining experience that would satisfy the palate and also create lasting memories.
Turning Challenges into Opportunities
The road to success for them was replete with hurdles. The COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 posed a massive challenge for the hospitality industry. For Adir and Liad, it became a crucible that tested their resolve and ingenuity. They launched their first restaurant, Next Door, with just seven employees.
The duo poured their heart and soul into training their team to deliver great food and impeccable service. Every plate they served reflected their meticulous attention to detail and love for curating culinary experiences. By 2024, their hard work paid off, building a team of nearly 100 employees across multiple ventures.
Image credit: Adir Cohen and Liad Ichiye
Crafting the Kosher Dining Scene
Adir and Liad’s restaurants are more than just eateries; they are vibrant experiences. Their unique cuisine blends Mediterranean flavors with eclectic fusion, offering glatt kosher options tailored to each event.
At Next Door, Mondays feature an extensive sushi menu, while Thursdays and Saturdays come alive with DJ nights. Meanwhile, Salamtak Catering provides seamless event experiences thanks to partnerships with a dedicated staffing agency. Weddings, bar mitzvahs, or corporate events at these venues are infused with the signature culinary touch of Adir and Liad.
A Plate Full of Accomplishments
The relentless efforts of this dynamic duo have earned them a series of accolades. Adir and Liad have received the Best Chef Award from San Pellegrino and Time Out Magazine. Their restaurants Next Door, Dr. Sandwich, Baazar Market, and Salamtak Catering are celebrated for elevating kosher dining to new heights in Los Angeles.
Looking Ahead
The journey for this duo is far from over. Within the next year, Adir and Liad are planning to open a new burger shop, aiming to create the best burger in LA. Their long-term vision includes franchising their dining concepts to share their flavors across the United States.
Creating an Inspiring Legacy
Adir and Liad’s story demonstrates the power of passion and perseverance. With their love for food, the duo has built and scaled a culinary empire that inspires aspiring chefs and entrepreneurs alike. Through their extensive dining experiences, Adir and Liad have proved that food is not just a means of sustenance but a way to celebrate life.