Eric Ripert Walks Away From 10 Arts

Been a big day in Eric Ripert news. First came word that he was stepping away from the Ritz-Carlton’s Westend Bistro in Washington D.C. effective January 1st. And now the Insider is reporting that Ripert is also ending his association with 10 Arts at the Ritz-Carlton here in Philly–the place that made Jen Carroll famous before that whole Top Chef thing. The reason? Some mystery restaurant in NYC affiliated with his celebrated fish palace, Le Bernardin.

For the time being, 10 Arts staff (including sous chef Nathan Volz) will continue to operate 10 Arts as 10 Arts, but what we’re wondering over here is whether a recent visit by Jose Andres (who recently began a partnership with Ritz-Carlton at their new, ultra-luxury property, Dorado Beach in Puerto Rico) to the kitchens at 10 Arts while he was in Philly has anything to do with anything.

Because, seriously, losing The Ripper sucks. But trading him for Jose Andres would go a long way toward making me feel better…

Eric Ripert Leaving 10 Arts [The Insider]