Ryan (right) and Matthew Poli
The idea behind Strategic Hospitality's innovative restaurant The Catbird Seat has always been that of a chef incubator, a place where chefs can try out things that are new or experimental or just offbeat (e.g. the cartoon cookie jars that serve post-meal desserts in the current incarnation). It 's part of what makes Catbird such an experience — even seven years in, something is always new every time you visit.
Today Strategic announced that the time we all knew was coming has, indeed, come: The current team of chef Ryan Poli and beverage director Matthew Poli will be leaving Catbird at the end of year. The Poli brothers have been working at the Midtown avant-garde dining gem for three years, and in a statement today Strategic said the two have been "a model of hospitality and graciousness to their guests, and we have enjoyed their time with us."
Ryan Poli plans to take some time off to travel — first up is Japan and Thailand — before settling in to what's next for him, and he is confident he'll find another opportunity with creative freedom. "I'll go somewhere where I can cook the food I cook and challenge myself," he tells the Scene. "But it is bittersweet. We have learned so much here, and we have grown into better people."
Before Poli, restaurant co-founders Josh Habiger and Erik Anderson set the bar at Catbird from 2011 to 2014, followed by chef Trevor Moran from 2014 to 2015.
The Polis' final meal at The Catbird Seat is Dec. 29, so book now, as there will be a waiting list in no time. Poli says they'll do their best to take as many reservations as possible to accommodate all the regulars who have supported the restaurant during his tenure.
Strategic will announce the chef for Catbird's latest incarnation in the next few weeks.
