Pastry Chef Roy Shvartzapel to Leave Common Bond

Common Bond's chef/owner Roy Shvartzapel will part ways with his widely-acclaimed bakery and cafe next month. Houston Chronicle first reported this stunning news also noting a vague reason regarding Shavartzapel's upcoming departure from from Brad Sanders and Kathy Sanders, partners at the Montrose bakery. The email from the Sanders stated that Shavartzapel "is stepping down from his post as executive chef of the company as he transitions to pursue other opportunities."  The Common Bond owner will stay on until March 8 before leaving to go back to NYC, according to the Chronicle.

Common Bond was one of the most-anticipated openings for 2014 and Shvartzapel's involvement had much to do with it. The Houston native has worked in the best kitchens under the direction of even greater chefs: Ferran Adria's elBulli and Thomas Keller's Bouchon Beverley Hills. Much credit is due to the Sanders for helping to assemble Shavartzapel's culinary team at Common Bond which includes David Morgan (August Restaurant), Drew Gimma (Bouchon, Per Se) and Tony Stein (Bouchon Beverly Hills).  With the trio's credentials it's likely the fort will be held down but will Shavartzapel's departure have a big impact in the month to come?