Former 'Friends' Writer-Chef Hosts Friendsgiving Feast at OyBar in Studio City
Jeff Strauss, the mastermind behind popularizing Friendsgiving, is hosting the holiday at his acclaimed Studio City gastropub. This veteran TV writer-turned-restaurateur co-wrote the iconic first-season 'Friends' episode in 1994, which solidified the found-family holiday as a new American cultural tradition and inspired a series of memorable Thanksgiving episodes on the sitcom.
Strauss's inspiration for Friendsgiving dates back to 1981 during his time as a student at Tufts University. He lived with fellow TV writer Jeff Greenstein, who later became the showrunner of 'Will & Grace'. Strauss recalls, 'Some people loved Thanksgiving, while others dreaded it.'
While the 'Friends' episode didn't coin the term Friendsgiving, it significantly contributed to its popularity. Strauss's character, Monica, embodied the group-mom spirit of hosting Thanksgiving for everyone. Greenstein added a personal touch to Chandler's character, revealing that Strauss's parents had told him about their divorce during a Thanksgiving dinner.
After 'Friends', Strauss worked on various TV shows, including a long-term project with 'Reba' on The WB. However, when opportunities dwindled, he shifted his focus to his enduring creative passion: food. He started with Jeff's Table, a popular Eastside sandwich spot, and later opened OyBar in Studio City, transforming the former Oyster House Saloon into a cozy, low-lit haven.
OyBar has gained a dedicated following for its unique dishes, such as a Jewish-inspired poutine and a Vietnamese-style burger. Strauss's Friendsgiving feast, held on November 21-22, offers an eight-course, wine-paired menu filled with food references and in-jokes from the first season of 'Friends'. The menu features tartlets, various potato dishes, and a duck served with chestnuts, yams, and mushrooms. Strauss explains, 'The menu includes personal touches that make me smile, just like they would in a script.'
Don't miss out on this unique Friendsgiving experience! Join Jeff Strauss at OyBar for a memorable feast filled with laughter, delicious food, and a touch of 'Friends' magic.
