Friedmans has switched concepts at Independence Plaza
Friedmans, which took the former Caliza space in Independence Plaza on N. Moore, has switched concepts for half of the store: it will now be Suram Sushi + Ramen, which serves what they call premium sushi, ramen and udon. (Thanks to A. and J. for the shots!)
Co-owner Jonah Phillips (his family owns Friedmans) said the space made more sense operationally for Suram than for their original Italian concept in that spot, Casa Louie.
The first Suram opened in 2023 on k60th and West End Avenue; they now have three locations in Manhattan along with a private events spaces in Hudson Yards and Herald Square.
The other half will still be Friedmans, which Phillips’ family opened in 2009 in the Chelsea Market. That menu was designed to be a gluten-free safe haven, since Phillips’ sister has celiac disease. The company has developed its own flours for pancakes, waffles and fried chicken — and now pizza and pasta for its Casa Louie locations.
More soon when they open.
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