Gabriel Biton
General Manager
Gabriel was raised in a farming community, where he spent his childhood surrounded by the rhythms of nature, and being taught the value of hard work, patience, and the deep satisfaction of growing and caring for food from the ground up. It was also in his parents' small, family-run restaurant that he first saw the magic of food: how simple, honest dishes could bring people together, create lasting memories, and nourish both body and soul.
Gabriel traveled the world as a young adult, seeing everything from the bustling street food markets of Thailand and Laos, to the vineyards of Europe and beautiful shores of Australia. Eventually, his travels led him back to New York City, where a 10-day visit turned into 20 plus years. The city’s energy, its diversity, and its endless possibilities made it impossible to leave. His first job in New York was with the iconic Mars 2112, complete with Martians, lasers, and neon lights. From there, he found his calling at Steak Frites, a beloved French bistro in Union Square, where he discovered a passion for French cuisine and wines.
After a quick three-year detour to Brazil, Gabriel returned to New York, bringing with him a Brazilian-inspired passion for great food, gathering and sharing stories, and living in the moment. He spent a further five years honing his craft at City Lobster in Rockefeller Center, before eventually making his way to the Upper East Side. It was here that he discovered something truly special in Cafe D'Alsace, where he was first a manager, and is now General Manager, leading the team in this neighborhood gem for over 13 years.
One of Gabriel’s most heartfelt achievements is keeping his promise to bring every member of his team back together after the pandemic, thanks to the unwavering support of the restaurant’s neighbors, guests, and community. Today, he is exceptionally proud of Cafe D’Alsace and the space it has become — a place where guests can gather, enjoy delicious food, and share precious moments with friends and family, all while escaping for a moment from New York’s famous “grind.” To Gabriel, it isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a home, and one he is grateful to be able to share for many years to come.