This Is TASTE 678: Smithereens Charts Its Own Course with Nikita Malhotra & Nick Tamburo
Oct 29, 2025
Will Thompson, co-owner of Sunny's in Miami, shares the inspiring journeys of his culinary career, highlighting influential meals from his early days in Boston. Meanwhile, Nick Tamburo and Nikita Malhotra, the creative duo behind Smithereens, delve into their New England-inspired seafood offerings and innovative beverage program featuring Riesling and rice-fermented drinks. They reflect on the importance of intentionality in food, service, and even music, crafting a unique dining experience that's deeply connected to the East Village community.
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From Warehouse Pop‑Up To Permanent Steakhouse
- Will Thompson turned a pandemic pop-up in a Little River roofing-tile warehouse into a permanent outdoor steakhouse after testing tacos first.
- The temporary experiment ran for years and convinced him to fundraise and open Sunny's permanently in Miami.
Modernize Tradition To Fit Place
- Thompson rejects reenacting old steakhouse norms and instead mixes classic steakhouse dishes with lighter, climate-appropriate options.
- He argues restaurants should reflect local ingredients, seasonality, and guest needs, not strict tradition.
Favor Timeless Drinks Over Trends
- Build a beverage menu around lasting classics rather than chasing novelty trends.
- Focus on drinks that make guests order a second one and add just enough novelty to feel fresh.
