Matt Abergel

Matt Abergel is a prominent Canadian chef and entrepreneur, best known as the co-owner and executive chef of Yardbird and Ronin, two acclaimed restaurants in Hong Kong. He is also a co-founder of Sunday's Spirits, Sunday's Grocery, and the chicken rotisserie brand Roti Tori.

Early Career and Background

Matt began his culinary journey in various Japanese kitchens across Canada. His significant career breakthrough occurred when he moved to New York City to work under renowned chef Masayoshi Takayama at the prestigious restaurant Masa. In 2009, he relocated to Hong Kong, where he was inspired by the city's vibrant food culture to establish his own restaurant.

Establishing Yardbird

In 2011, Abergel, alongside business partner Lindsay Jang, opened Yardbird, a modern izakaya specializing in yakitori (grilled chicken skewers). The restaurant quickly gained popularity for its unique approach, which included a no-reservations policy and a commitment to quality ingredients. In 2013, they expanded their culinary repertoire with the opening of Ronin, which focused on Japanese cuisine.

Recognition and Contributions

Abergel's work has been recognized with numerous accolades, including a Michelin star for Yardbird in 2021, ten years after its opening. He published his first book, "Chicken and Charcoal," in 2018, detailing the story behind Yardbird's inception and growth. His culinary philosophy emphasizes community engagement and authenticity, reflecting his belief that dining should be an enjoyable and relaxed experience.

Recent Developments

As of September 2024, Abergel and Jang announced plans to close Ronin in December 2024 to launch a new venture adjacent to Yardbird in January 2025, indicating their ongoing commitment to innovation in the culinary landscape of Hong Kong.123