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By Lilian Peña

Step into NoMa Social, and you’re instantly transported—suburban New Rochelle surroundings fade away, and in its place is the electric energy of a Manhattan downtown lounge. Smiling faces, upbeat music, and a contagious sense of excitement welcome guests to a place where food, atmosphere, and connection all come together seamlessly. Something Colby Brock’s grandfather had a vision in 1974 when the property was built. Her father made a reality in 1975 and continues to live on today through his daughter Colby.

At the heart of NoMa’s culinary and hospitality success is a powerhouse team: Owner & Hospitality Industry Leader, Colby Brock; Executive Chef Gio Rivera, originally from Guatemala, brings passion and creativity to every dish; Marie Palomba, the dynamic General Manager, keeps the front-of-house operations running like a well-oiled machine; and Rob Salese, the Restaurant and Lounge Manager, is the energy and strategy behind many of NoMa’s innovations.

A Menu with Meaning
Chef Gio’s Spring/Summer menu showcases fresh, daily-sourced ingredients and an ever-evolving roster of weekly specials. One dish that has become an insider go-to favorite is the Chicken Scarpariello (photo above)—a rich, savory plate that’s just as beloved in Chef Gio’s home as it is on the dining room floor. Its sauce is so craveable that guests have begged for it on other dishes, and the team is even considering bottling it as “Gio’s Sauce.”

Another standout is the Mixed Grill, expected to become a seasonal staple, and the soon-to-be-introduced Short Rib Ravioli—a dish customers have been requesting for months. “People set the buzz,” says Rob, “and it’s our job to make them happy.”

The Team That Weathered the Storm
Rob joined NoMa just before the pandemic hit in 2020. “Two weeks into the job, everything shut down,” he recalls. But he and Chef Gio didn’t fall out of rhythm. They served meals to first responders and members of the National Guard, keeping the kitchen alive and their mission intact.

The bond between Rob and Gio is the cornerstone of NoMa’s success. “It’s crucial to have a strong relationship between the front and back of the house,” Rob says. “One team, one goal.” That spirit has permeated the entire staff. Chef Gio, who began as a sous chef and worked his way up, now leads a tight-knit, 12-member kitchen team—many of whom have been by his side for years.

A True Family Legacy
The warmth and unity of NoMa can be traced back to the Brock family, who have helmed the restaurant and hotel for generations. Colby Brock, the current matriarch of the operation, embodies that legacy with grace and grit. Prior to working with her father in the family hotel restaurant business, Colby obtained a degree in psychology, a maters’ degree in interior design, and working for other hotel companies. While working for her father, she followed his guidance and began her journey at the front desk, later expanding her experience to include housekeeping and restaurant operations. “Colby is the mamma bear,” says Rob. “She finds the best in everyone and every situation. They let you do your job—no micromanaging.”

Colby’s leadership is rooted in deep trust. When she chose Marie Palomba as General Manager, it was with full confidence. “She has the chutzpah,” Colby says proudly. Marie agrees, describing their working relationship as “completely in sync” and expressing her deep gratitude for the trust the Brock family has placed in her.

More Than Just Dinner
Beyond the main dining experience, NoMa offers expanded banquet and event menus, ideal for celebrations big and small. As well as, event spaces and conference meeting rooms available within Hotel NoMa. In fact, NoMa Social has become a cherished landmark where generations of families gather. “People come in and tell us they were proposed to here, or celebrated anniversaries decades ago,” says Rob. 

Dessert is always a delight, with rotating favorites like the indulgent Fried Ice Cream and the gooey Chocolate Chip Sundae earning repeat praise.

The Secret? Love What You Do
Every person at NoMa shares one thing in common: passion. Whether it’s in the kitchen, behind the bar, or greeting guests at the door, the staff’s dedication is clear.

“You have to love what you do,” says Chef Gio—and at NoMa, that love is felt in every bite, every smile, and every unforgettable evening.