EaterWire: The Story of Nobu, Toi Sold, Remembering Ciro Marino and More!

NOBUWIRE—In a substantial interview, Nobu Matsuhisa recounts the story of Nobu, and how his first Beverly Hills endeavor almost failed: "I named the place Matsuhisa. My wife was my only business partner ... For the first two years we accepted only cash - we couldn't afford a credit card machine. We didn't make a profit; at the end of each month we were able to pay rent, our vendors and our bills at work and at home, but that was it." [CNN]

SANTA MONICA—According to some liquor license action, Toi on Wilshire is being sold to Adam Milstein, last seen on down the road. The initial DBA is NY&C. [EaterWire]

LISTS—LA.com declares the five best mac-and-cheese destinations in town: Swingers, Hugo's, Pete's Cafe and Bar, Ketchup and Hotel Bel Air. What'd they miss? [LA]

LOS ANGELES—Legendary restaurateur Ciro "Mario" Marino recently passed away due to lung cancer. He laid claim to being a part of Hollywood dining history, and the Daily Dish has a comprehensive look at his life, from his Via Veneto days in the 50s to Marino Ristorante today. He was 76. [LAT]

[Photo of Toi on Wilshire at 2am by Caroline on Crack]