Chef Harold Moore On The NYC Wine & Food Festival, His New Lincoln Center Restaurant

Chef Harold Moore is perhaps best known as the chef and owner of West Village gem Commerce, which opened in 2006 and closed earlier this year. But Moore didn't wait long before opening his newest restaurant, Moore Food & Drink, in Lincoln Center. In the upcoming  Food Network and Cooking Channel New York City Wine and Food Festival Presented by Food & Wine, which will be rolling through New York from October 15 to 18, Moore will be participating in both the Chicken Coupe and Meatopia, two of the festival's most popular events. We spoke with Moore about his love for the festival, as well as the differences in cooking for a West Village versus Lincoln Center audience.

The Daily Meal: What are you most looking forward to at NYCWFF this year?
Harold Moore: I love the energy that the festival brings to New York. People are so focused on food, which is always exciting. To me, the festival is really the official kickoff to fall. 

What will you be serving at Meatopia and the Chicken Coupe?
At Chicken Coupe I will be serving my coconut cake, and at Meatopia I will be making a rotisserie chicken.

What brings you back to the festival year after year?
I like being able to reach a new audience. As a chef, the festival gives you the opportunity to meet new people that haven't been or don't frequent your restaurant. 

What was your inspiration behind Moore Food & Drink? What are your hopes for it?
I just wanted to create a place where people could feel comfortable coming no matter what the occasion. 

How is it different running a restaurant near Lincoln Center versus in the West Village?
The pressure of the pre-Lincoln Center dining is no joke. It plays a huge role in the operation. Otherwise, I would say that people generally eat earlier in Lincoln Center than in the West Village. 

What are your favorite dishes to cook at home?
Eggs. Omelets or whatever I'm feeling that day. 

Are there any foods that you will never eat?
No.  

What do you think sets the NYCWFF apart from all other food festivals?
Well, it's in New York City. New Yorkers take their food very seriously, and the festival brings the whole city together.  That, mixed with the energy of the city, creates something really special.