After Roger Mooking backs out of Kultura, new owner promises redesign and hot-shot NYC chef

From Mooking’s blog:

As of today, Dec. 10^th I am no longer involved with Kultura Social Dining. I have poured an incredible amount of energy, heart and soul into that building on King Street…over the years. All of the experiences have taught me a lot. The restaurant will continue to operate as Kultura albeit without my involvement. I wish for nothing but resounding and continued success. It is a beautiful space.

A family man as much as he is a globetrotting, product-endorsing, TV-star chef (Everyday Exotic on Food Network), Mooking was getting tired of never seeing his wife and kids. Still, the decision wasn’t made lightly. “I’m nostalgic about the place, as I have put a lot of time, energy and soul into it, but have learned that one must not covet possessions. Covet life not possessions.”

For his part, Nyilas—an art wholesaler-cum-clothing designer-cum-actor—plans on putting his own mark on the place. “I used to own an art gallery and I’ve got a flair for interior design, so I’m going to do a few things to the place.” Not the least of which will be the introduction of a reportedly wunderkind chef from New York City, who, for legal reasons, must remain nameless. All we know is he’s 27 and comes with Michelin-starred experience and a few Iron Chef battle scars (as Marcus Samuelsson’s sous).