Chef Ana Morales has stepped down from her role at Marrow, the Tribeca restaurant she opened in 2022. Morales confirmed she will launch a new restaurant in Brooklyn later this year.

Ana Morales announced her departure from Marrow on July 5, 2024, ending her two-year tenure as executive chef and co-owner. Marrow, known for its contemporary bistro menu, was Morales’s first solo project in Manhattan after previous roles at Cosme and Lilia.

Sources close to Ana Morales say she is partnering with local Brooklyn investors for her next effort. The new restaurant, as yet unnamed, is set to open in Williamsburg, currently targeting an October launch. Morales stated that her new menu will focus on regional Mexican cuisine, a shift from Marrow’s more eclectic offerings.

Marrow will remain open in Tribeca under the stewardship of its current management team. No successor has been named as of press time. Morales expressed gratitude for her time at Marrow but cited a desire to “work closer to home and explore a more personal style of cooking.”

The move marks a notable chef transition in a summer already filled with headline changes across Manhattan kitchens. Morales’s departure follows a trend of prominent operators moving to Brooklyn for new concepts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Ana Morales leave Marrow?

Ana Morales left Marrow to pursue a new restaurant project in Brooklyn, where she lives. She indicated wanting a shorter commute and the opportunity to focus on regional Mexican cuisine, which is more personal to her background and interests.

What is planned for the new Brooklyn restaurant?

The new restaurant, expected to open in Williamsburg in fall 2024, will highlight regional Mexican cooking. Ana Morales is working with Brooklyn-based partners and aims to create a menu distinct from Marrow’s bistro approach. The space is currently under construction.

Who is running Marrow after Morales’s departure?

Marrow remains open in Tribeca, managed by the existing restaurant team. As of now, no replacement executive chef has been named. The ownership group has not announced significant changes to the concept or menu.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Ana Morales leave Marrow?

Ana Morales left Marrow to open a new restaurant in Brooklyn, seeking a shorter commute and the chance to focus on regional Mexican cuisine, which is more personal to her.

What type of restaurant is Ana Morales opening in Brooklyn?

Ana Morales is opening a regional Mexican restaurant in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, with a menu distinct from Marrow’s bistro offerings.

When is Ana Morales’s new Brooklyn restaurant expected to open?

The new Williamsburg restaurant is planned to open in October 2024.

Who is running Marrow after Ana Morales’s departure?

Marrow remains open in Tribeca under its current management team, and no successor chef has been named as of July 2024.

What will happen to Marrow after Ana Morales leaves?

Marrow will continue operating in Tribeca with its existing management and no announced changes to the concept or menu.

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