Early Life and Background

• Birth and Origin:

  • Roman Kaplan was born in the Soviet Union.
  • He emigrated to the United States in the 1970s.

• Educational Background:

  • Studied at a university in the Soviet Union before moving to the U.S.

Career and Achievements

• Restaurant Ownership:

  • Kaplan is best known for founding the Russian Samovar restaurant in New York City.
  • The restaurant has become a cultural hub for Russian immigrants and Americans interested in Russian culture.

• Cultural Contributions:

  • Russian Samovar is noted for hosting literary events, musical performances, and gatherings of intellectuals.
  • The restaurant has played a significant role in preserving Russian cultural traditions in the U.S.

• Collaborations with Notable Figures:

  • Worked with famous personalities like Joseph Brodsky, a Nobel Prize-winning poet.
  • Collaborated with Mikhail Baryshnikov, the renowned ballet dancer.

Personal Life

• Family:

  • Kaplan’s family background and personal life details are relatively private.

• Community Involvement:

  • Active in the cultural and social life of the Russian expatriate community in New York.
  • Known for his philanthropic efforts and support for various cultural initiatives.

Influence and Legacy

• Impact on Russian-American Culture:

  • Kaplan has significantly influenced the Russian-American community through his cultural and social endeavors.
  • Russian Samovar has become an iconic institution representing the fusion of Russian and American cultures.

• Recognition and Awards:

  • Kaplan has received various accolades for his contributions to the arts and culture.
  • His work has been recognized by both American and Russian institutions.

Notable Works and Publications

• Literary Contributions:

  • Although primarily known for his restaurant, Kaplan has also contributed to literary circles through his support of poets and writers.

• Media Appearances:

  • Featured in numerous articles and interviews highlighting his role in promoting Russian culture in the U.S.
  • The Russian Samovar has been mentioned in various travel and culture guides.

"Kaplan's Russian Samovar is more than just a restaurant; it's a vibrant cultural center that brings together people from all walks of life to celebrate Russian heritage."

Further Reading and Resources

• Books:

  • "Russian Samovar: An Anthology" collects stories and essays about the restaurant's influence and significance.

• Websites:

  • The official website of Russian Samovar provides more details about events, history, and menu offerings.

• Articles:

  • Various cultural and culinary magazines have featured articles on Kaplan and his restaurant, offering insights into his contributions to the cultural landscape of New York City.