our story
Brasserie Mémère is a classic French brasserie created by Chef Thomas Ciszak. Ciszak’s inspiration comes from his warm childhood memories of his mémère, or “granny” in English, who was culinary trained in Germany. Memories of spending time in the garden with his grandmother planted the love for food and inspired Ciszak to embark on a culinary career. At Brasserie Mémère, Chef Ciszak continues to honor timeless French techniques and flavors, while still incorporating his grandmother’s warm and familiar cuisine, which will create new memories for generations to come.
about the chefs
Chef Thomas Ciszak embarked on his culinary career in Germany, attending prestigious culinary institutions and cooking at Michelin-starred restaurants. In the United States, he made a name for himself at The Manor and Tavern on the Green before becoming the Executive Chef at Shelly's New York and creating acclaimed Copeland (now Blue Morel) at the Westin Governor Morris. As an active philanthropist, Cizak has also cooked for notables like Michelle Obama and Hillary Clinton.
Chef Kevin Takafuji, originally from Hawaii, has an impressive history working with the likes of culinary masters such as Daniel Boulud and Eric Ripert of Le Bernadin. Most recently, he was chef at Pluckermin Inn and has worked with Ciszak at Morristown’s Blue Morel.
“...approachable everyday brasserie with classic French fare, which sounds pretty perfect to us.”
— Bergen Mama
