Photo: Getty Images
After splitting with David Burke (davidburke & donatella recently reopened as David Burke Townhouse), Donatella Arpaia is now breaking with Michael Psilakis, at least as far as Mia Dona is concerned (he was partner and executive chef). It’s none too surprising, given that Psilakis opened Gus & Gabriel without her involvement and seems to be becoming a restaurateur in his own right, but in any case, here’s the statement that just landed in our in-box.
Michael Psilakis along with Donatella Arpaia today announced he will no longer be the Executive Chef nor partner at Mia Dona, the highly praised Italian eatery, located at 206 East 58th Street in New York City.
“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.”
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.
