Ladies, meet David. David, meet my lovely readers. If you’re a Montrealer, you’ve probably heard about Ryu. Maybe you’ve even dined there. Since opening, it’s quickly become one of the hottest spots in the city thanks to its contemporary twist on Japanese cuisine. David is the man behind this wildly successful concept but that’s actually just one portion of his busy professional life.
Make sure to check out my interview with him below to see what one of the most fashionable men in Montreal insists all men should have in their closet and just where he’d spend a night if he’s not holding court at Ryu.
There’s two facets to your professional life, Group Dayan and Ryu, tell us about them !
Groupe Dayan has been operating since 1986 in real estate development. I joined 7 years ago we’ve done projects like the W Hotel, we currently own most the buildings on chabanel. Due to mine and my family’s background in real estate, I always knew I wanted to own my places, Ryu being my first. Ryu is contemporary Japanese bistro, I opened it 3.5 years ago because I believed Montreal needed a Japanese restaurant with ambience, as well as good food.
What is a typical day like for you?
I tend to have 6-7 more than a 9-5. It is hard to juggle both businesses, one really needs to have good time management skills; something I am currently working on and starting to develop.
What inspired you to open Ryu?
I got inspired by my travels and eating at really cool restaurants in the states as well as in Europe. I guess one could say I am a “foodie” at heart.
What is your current favorite dish on the menu at Ryu?
My favourite dish is actually one of our brand new ones. Pan seared scallop with prosciutto truffle and a maple dashi (sauce). When I am not eating at the restaurant, I actually love to cook, but all dishes really depend on my mood.
The word around Montreal is that you’ll be launching a catering side of Ryu, any amazing signature dishes to look out for?
Developing our catering menu is something we have been working on for a while and we’ve learnt that most people want to custom their own. We are proud to offer personalized menus to any catering client – it is a time where we can sit with the client and our chefs and develop something really special. No two events are the same.
Who are your style icons and do you find your style changes depending upon what sphere of your professional life you’re in?
I think David Beckham and Kanye West keep it fresh – my style goes from a tailored suit by day to tight jeans and loose tees by night…complete with some accessories.
You’re know as one of the more stylish men in Montreal, what do you recommend that every man should have in his closet?
As I said above, accessories. Accessories can make the outfit.
You have 48 hours in Montreal, how do you spend them?
That’s a really hard question! I would have to see my family, close friends, eat at Ryu, Milo’s or Le Bremner. Drinks in the old port, maybe a pop into some of my favourite nightclubs or bars, and end the night with someone special.
