Philippe Schmit Already OUT At Toulouse Houston

Just two months after opening, Toulouse already has a brand new chef. It’s unclear when exactly Philippe Schmit, the popular Houston chef who was tapped to lead the restaurant, departed Toulouse, but he has officially been replaced.

Announced via release, Chef Laurent Dubourg is now in charge of the Toulouse kitchen. The French-born seems to be a perfect fit for the concept thanks to his background in working in some of France’s best kitchens. Dubourg has formerly served as executive chef of Pilou’s Club in Caen, and Le Glouton in Courseulles Sur Mer.

Lombardi Family Concepts, Toulouse’s parent company, was relatively mum on what spurred Schmit’s departure, only saying that he has decided to “pursue other personal culinary interests.” “We thank Chef Philippe for helping open Toulouse Houston and wish him the best in his future endeavors,” said restaurateur Alberto Lombardi in a statement.

In his new role, Dubourg will work with closely with both Renato di Pirro, Executive Chef for Lombardi Concepts and Toulouse Concepts Executive Chef Yoann Lardeaux.