It's been rumored for months now that Michael Psilakis and his longtime partner Donatella Arpaia would be splitting up their growing restaurant empire, but recent calls had both parties denying the existence of any trouble in paradise. And yet, it's not so shocking to hear the following news.
According to their pr reps, Psilakis is leaving as executive chef and partner of his and Arpaia's 2 year-old midtown spot Mia Dona. This announcement comes on the heels of the departure of the beverage director James Horn, the GM of Mia Dona, and the exec. chef Jason Hall. It's unclear whether any of the events are related or what this means for their other restaurants Kefi and Anthos, but for what it's worth, here's their explanation:
“Given the economy and new projects that have arisen for us both, Donatella and I have decided it would be best for her to take full ownership of Mia Dona,” says Michael Psilakis. “The restaurant is truly an extension of Donatella in both cuisine and design and it feels right for her to have complete control of the operation and menu going forward. I have several projects in the works that I will be focusing on in the near future.”· All Mia Dona Coverage [~E~]Lifestyle expert and restaurateur Donatella Arpaia agrees, adding, “We’ve given this decision quite a bit of thought and we both feel it is best for the group that I focus my energies on Mia Dona at this time while Michael turns his attention towards his new opportunities.” Psilakis, who recently opened Gus & Gabriel on the Upper West Side, remains Executive Chef and partner with Donatella Arpaia at the popular eateries Anthos (36 West 52nd Street, NYC) and Kefi (505 Columbus Avenue, NYC) and Eos located in the Viceroy in Miami, FL.
· EaterWire: Splitsville for David Burke and Donatella [~E~]