ABOUT THE FOUNDERS OF PAUL'S ON TIMES SQUARE
Paul Nicaj, Nick Krkuti, & Chef Dino have teamed up to create Times Square’s best Italian Restaurant In NYC.
Paul Nicaj
Namesake Paul Nicaj, is a legend in the New York City hospitality industry.Born to Albanian parents in Montenegro, Paul Nicaj immigrated to the United States in 1968 with the dream of making it big in the hospitality industry.
Nicaj launched his career by working at The Plaza Hotel for the next twenty-eight years, Pierre Hotel for six years and now owning an interest in more than a dozen NYC restaurants, heading a hospitality army of more than seven hundred employees.
Princess Diana teamed up with the famous New York City restaurateur to create a whimsical afternoon tea at the Plaza. The “Princess Diana Tea” was a huge hit, showcasing Paul’s innovation and the Plaza’s elegance.
Paul authored “Uncle Paul’s” which is staple in the world of restaurants.
Chef Dino Redzic
Chef Dino Redzic’s ascent from the enchanting landscapes of Montenegro to the pinnacle of New York City’s culinary scene is a story of passion, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to authentic Italian cuisine. At Paul’s on Times Square, each dish crafted by Chef Dino serves as a testament to his dedication to freshness and tradition.
His journey, deeply rooted in a reverence for culinary excellence, began long before the neon glow of Times Square. Through his experiences in renowned kitchens, Chef Dino not only honed his craft but also grasped the very essence of gastronomy, which he now expresses through his distinct culinary offerings.
A celebrity in his own right, Chef Dino has graced numerous TV cooking shows, showcasing his culinary prowess. His leadership within the esteemed James Beard Foundation has further solidified his status, and his collaborations with culinary legends have served as the foundation for creating the gastronomic gem, Paul’s on Times Square.
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Dino Redzic is not just a chef; he is a culinary innovator, skillfully blending Italian heritage with global flavors. His impressive career spans from Montenegro to some of New York’s finest venues, leading to the establishment of successful restaurants like Amici Amore and Butcher Bros. Steakhouse. At Paul’s on Times Square, his dishes reflect the rich diversity of New York, embodying the city’s vibrant culinary landscape.
Since entering the New York hospitality industry in 1992, Chef Partner Dino Redzic has built a legacy of excellence. His extensive experience includes prestigious establishments such as the James Beard, Rainbow Room, and Windows on the World. He has had the privilege of working alongside culinary greats like Alain Ducasse, Daniel Boulud, Thomas Keller, and many others, continuously enriching his expertise.
Alongside his acclaimed restaurants, Chef Dino launched Uncle Paul’s Hospitality Group in 2012, which reflects his vision for innovation in Pizza dining. His latest ventures, including “Osukaa Omakase,” a next-level sushi restaurant in Long Island City and Manhattan, embody his culinary expertise and commitment to personalized service, bringing his renowned reputation to the international world of cooking.
With each plate, Chef Dino Redzic not only serves food but tells a story of ambition, creativity, and the enduring influence of his heritage, making him a key figure in the ever-evolving culinary world.
Nick Krkuti
Since the late 1980s, pizza connoisseur and entrepreneur Nick Krkuti has owned and operated dozens of pizzerias and restaurants throughout the tri-state area. Nick’s expertise in this field has put him at the consulting front of many success stories. Nick has single-handedly opened various neighborhood pizzerias throughout Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, and Manhattan. With his knowledge in the field, he can easily guide a client in the right direction when starting a new business. Not only does Nick have a background in food and beverage, but he has also owned and operated a construction management business, which put his skills to use when building new shops from scratch. With decades of experience, Nick is well-versed in every aspect of the business and is an asset to Uncle Paul’s Hospitality Group. Nick has successfully launched Not Ray’s Pizza in 1991, located in the heart of Downtown Brooklyn.
Accolades and Achievements
2020
James Beard Foundation Leadership
Chef Dino served as the head of the prestigious James Beard Foundation, showcasing his leadership and culinary expertise.
2018
Celebrity Chef Award
Recognized for his appearances on numerous TV shows, Chef Dino received the Celebrity Chef Award for his contributions to the culinary world.