Stella in N.O. is closed

Amazing what it takes to operate at that high of a level. Maybe just burnout, hope it isnt worse.

Dang. I've been wanting to go there. I thought it was supposed to be one of the better places downtown.

that was abrupt

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Amazing what it takes to operate at that high of a level. Maybe just burnout,

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Burnout would be my guess. It has been at the top of the rankings in N.O. since it opened and it has to take a toll. I know I've read stories that when he closes the restaurant for vacations he would go work in other restaurant kitchens for other great chefs just to learn new things.

I do know first hand that Stanley's was more profitable. But still shocked.

They just wacked the other thread. Never made it. Pissed.

I think BO made some sort of comment. Anyone heard anything?

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We can only hope that the space will be filled soon, with a mini Walk-Ons.

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Molecular gastronomy burgers and fries.

It's not uncommon for restaurants like this to struggle financially in spite of having great food and service. It takes an enormous amount of focus and energy to operate at a high level consistently for a long time. Throw in rising food costs and without multiple restaurants and the scale that comes with that, and it's easy to see why good, well run restaurants often close. Look at NY and all the name chefs, almost all of them have multiple restaurants: Boulud, Jean Georges, Batali, Chang, Coliccio, Andrew Carmelini, et al, have all built successful restaurant groups, often in multiple cities. Danny Meyer, one of the most successful restauranteurs in the world basically breaks even with Gramercy Tavern, Maialino, The Modern, Untitled, Union Square Cafe, etc, and makes most if not all his profits from his Shake Shack chain.

Stella was/is a great restaurant. Best wishes for those folks, whatever they decide to do next.