For chef Zach Robinson, this isn’t just another dinner service; it’s the culmination of four years of hard work.
On July 13 at 5:30 p.m., the Fedora and St. Jardim chef Robinson will take over St. Jardim for a one-night-only izakaya pop-up, showcasing a menu of Japanese-inspired small plates, skewers and desserts that reflect both his personal tastes and the lessons he’s learned throughout his career.
“This pop-up is a test of the last four years of my professional cooking career,” Robinson said. “I started cooking professionally when I was 17 and really took a real love for it. I got here by working my ass off, falling down so many times, and just getting back up.”
Known for the European-inspired cooking at Fedora and St. Jardim, Robinson is taking diners in an entirely different direction. Inspired by the lively atmosphere of Japanese izakayas, the evening centers on shareable dishes, drinks and conversation.
“I love the concept of small bites, good drinks and great vibes,” Robinson said.
The menu features oysters with ponzu and red plum, ginger tsukune chicken meatballs, stuffed shishito peppers with beef and cream cheese, pork belly enoki maki, curry shrimp skewers, black garlic butter shiitake mushrooms, cucumber daikon salad, soy-ginger glazed fairy eggplant and a New York-style sake lees cheesecake.
“All the dishes are one or two bites and full of flavor,” Robinson added. “The dish I’m most excited for is the sake lees cheesecake.”
The menu isn’t rooted in a single culinary philosophy so much as Robinson’s own palate.
“It’s all stuff I like to eat and enjoy eating,” he said.
His appreciation for Japanese cuisine began with his uncle’s homemade okonomiyaki, while the energy of izakaya cooking– the fast pace and constant movement around the grill– inspired the format of the dinner.
Growing up in New York also helped shape Robinson’s approach to food.
“I’ve had the chance to try so many different types of cuisines and have such a complex palate,” he said.
For Robinson, the evening is about more than serving good food. He wants guests to experience the community that’s supported him along the way.
“I want people to see how much family I have,” he said. “I hope they leave talking about how much of a great time they had.”
He also hopes the pop-up encourages people to step outside their comfort zones.
“To try something new,” he said.
Robinson believes pop-ups have become an important platform for young chefs looking to establish their own voice.
“I think all young chefs that are serious and have a real burning passion should do a pop-up,” he said.
If guests only order three dishes, Robinson doesn’t hesitate with his recommendations: the curry shrimp, stuffed shishitos and sake lees cheesecake.
As for what’s next after July 13, he’s keeping an open mind.
“I have no clue,” Robinson said with a laugh. “Hopefully, new openings for me and my career.”
Robinson’s one-night-only izakaya pop-up takes place Monday, July 13, beginning at 5:30 p.m. at St. Jardim, 183 W. 10th St. Seating is limited and service runs until sold out. Make a reservation online at resy.com/cities/new-york-ny/venues/st-jardim/events/zach-robinson-x-jardim-2026-07-13.
