Chef Marcus Taylor Leaves Harlem for Downtown, Joins Balthazar Before Bastille Day

• Chef Marcus Taylor started at Balthazar in June 2024.
• Balthazar’s Bastille Day service is set for July 14.
• Taylor previously worked at Red Rooster Harlem for four years.

Chef Marcus Taylor has taken a new role at Balthazar, the established French brasserie in SoHo. Taylor left his position as executive sous chef at Red Rooster Harlem after four years at the Marcus Samuelsson restaurant. He began working at Balthazar in early June.

Balthazar, which opened in 1997, is known for its classic French menu and is a common site for Bastille Day observances. Taylor will help lead the kitchen’s special Bastille Day offerings, which in previous years have included prix fixe menus and outdoor festivities. Management at Balthazar confirmed that Taylor’s hire is part of a broader effort to bring new perspectives into the kitchen.

Staff at Red Rooster Harlem noted Taylor’s departure in late May, according to a restaurant representative. Taylor declined to comment directly on his reasons for leaving, but sources say he sought a new challenge in a downtown setting. Balthazar’s leadership said Taylor will work closely with chef de cuisine Amanda Renaud during the Bastille Day service.

Balthazar’s Bastille Day event on July 14 remains on the restaurant’s calendar, with reservations currently open. The brasserie expects increased demand during the holiday and will add special menu items for the occasion. Taylor’s name has already appeared on Balthazar’s website among the current kitchen team.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Chef Marcus Taylor leave Red Rooster Harlem?

Chef Marcus Taylor did not provide a public statement about his departure from Red Rooster Harlem. Sources familiar with the move said he was seeking new professional challenges in a different neighborhood. Taylor had been with Red Rooster Harlem for four years, serving as executive sous chef.

What will Chef Taylor’s role be at Balthazar?

Chef Marcus Taylor joins the kitchen leadership team at Balthazar. He is expected to help oversee menu planning and kitchen operations, especially during major events such as Bastille Day. Taylor will work alongside chef de cuisine Amanda Renaud.

When is Balthazar’s Bastille Day celebration?

Balthazar will hold its annual Bastille Day service on July 14, 2024. The restaurant plans to offer a special French menu and expects high reservations for the holiday. Taylor’s first major event at Balthazar will be this Bastille Day service.