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  • Dinner: 5:15 – 10:00 pm
  • Mid-Day Menu: 3:00 – 5:15 pm
  • Lunch: Mon – Fri: 11:30 am – 3:00 pm
  • Brunch: Sat / Sun 10:30 am – 2:30 pm

Our Team

Nicholas Harary

Owner

At the age of eleven, Nicholas Harary worked at a local pizza joint (Pizzarama!) and discovered two traits that would shape his future—an extraordinary work ethic and a passion for the restaurant industry. His culinary education and impressive resume culminated in Restaurant Nicholas, Harary’s own establishment that launched in December 2000 with his wife Melissa. During its 20 year run, Restaurant Nicholas was awarded four stars from The New York Times and NJ Monthly, the Four Diamond Award from Triple A and was the highest-rated restaurant (food and service) in New Jersey’s Zagat from 2006-2020. Now, Nicholas writes a new chapter with Nicholas Barrel & Roost – a modern, casual dining experience featuring a chef-driven comfort food menu for foodies of all ages. Nicholas is a devoted Giants and Yankees fan and father to Nicholas and Juliana.

Melissa Harary

Owner
A Monmouth County native, Melissa Harary has built an impressive career in the restaurant industry that spans both coasts. In 1995, she met Nicholas and embarked on a career path that transported her from California to Manhattan and ultimately back to her hometown. Melissa sharpened her hospitality skills at Tabla, as Service Director in New York City and at several reputable wineries in the Napa Valley. In the fall of 2000, Melissa worked tirelessly alongside her husband to open Restaurant Nicholas. Melissa’s graciousness and warmth, combined with painstaking attention to detail, has made her the cornerstone of Restaurant Nicholas and the source of its success. Nicholas states, “Melissa is my muse in the kitchen and the personality in the dining room.” Melissa is a proud mother of her son, Nicholas, and daughter, Juliana. She continues to oversee administrative operations for Barrel and Roost as well as Nicholas Creameries.

EDWARD RASIEWICZ

General Manager

An Ocean County native, Edward Rasiewicz joined the Restaurant Nicholas team in 2009. During the 11 years with Nicholas & Melissa, Edward has moved through the ranks of the restaurant to being promoted to General Manager of Nicholas Barrel & Roost. He is fondly considered Nicholas’s “Number One” when it comes to all aspects of the restaurant. His passion for the restaurant industry and the understanding of Nicholas Harary’s cuisine and service is unparalleled. Rasiewicz’s charm, quick wit and grace under pressure have made him beloved by staff members and guests alike.

Kevin Koller

Executive Chef
Kevin Koller knew from an early age that he wanted to be a chef. New Jersey born and raised, Kevin graduated with honors from Johnson & Wales University in 2011 with degrees in both Culinary Arts and Nutrition. During college, Kevin interned at northern New Jersey based restaurant, Restaurant Latour, at Crystal Springs Resort and remained there for one year after graduating. It was at Restaurant Latour where he began to hone his skills and discover his passion for fine dining. Kevin joined the Restaurant Nicholas team in 2012. At Restaurant Nicholas, he rotated through the restaurant’s six stations, earning his role as Sous Chef in 2015. Ultimately, Kevin accepted the position of Executive Chef. Using modern techniques and quality ingredients, Kevin found his niche at Restaurant Nicholas and looks forward to making his mark on Barrel & Roost.

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Parking: Although it’s legal to park in side streets, we ask that you be courteous to our neighbors and use the two adjacent parking lots surrounding the restaurant.

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