<div class="tldr">Alan Kim has departed Wild Son on the Lower East Side to start a new bakery in Astoria, Queens. The new project is expected to open in fall 2024.</div>
<ul class="key-facts">
<li>Chef Alan Kim led Wild Son’s kitchen since 2022.</li>
<li>The Astoria bakery aims to open in October 2024.</li>
<li>Wild Son remains open under new leadership.</li>
</ul>
Alan Kim, who took over as executive chef at Wild Son in 2022, confirmed this week that he has stepped down from his position. Kim plans to open a bakery in Astoria, Queens, focusing on naturally leavened breads and neighborhood pastries. The bakery, currently unnamed, is slated for an October 2024 launch, according to documents filed with the city.
Wild Son, located on Ludlow Street, opened in 2019 and became known for its all-day menu. Kim was brought on two years ago to revise the kitchen’s offerings, emphasizing seasonal produce and simplified dishes. Ownership at Wild Son says the restaurant will remain open, with sous chef Carla Medina now managing the back of house.
Kim’s new bakery will occupy a ground-floor space on 31st Avenue near Crescent Street, a block from the Astoria–Ditmars subway stop. The project is backed by a group of local investors, two of whom previously worked with Kim at Wild Son. Kim has stated that he intends to offer “affordable, daily bread” and a small selection of sweets, with seating for up to 16 guests.
<h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2>
<h2>Why did Alan Kim leave Wild Son?</h2>
<p>Alan Kim departed Wild Son to focus on opening his own bakery in Astoria, Queens. He cited a long-standing interest in bread-baking and wanted to pursue a solo project. Kim had been with Wild Son since 2022, overseeing menu changes and kitchen operations. The decision was announced internally in early June 2024. Wild Son’s ownership expressed support for Kim’s new venture.</p>
<h2>What will happen to Wild Son after Kim’s departure?</h2>
<p>Wild Son remains open on Ludlow Street. Sous chef Carla Medina has taken over kitchen management. The ownership has said there are no immediate plans to change the menu or close the restaurant. Medina has worked at Wild Son for over a year. The restaurant’s regular hours and service will continue as usual.</p>
<h2>When will the Astoria bakery open and what will it offer?</h2>
<p>The Astoria bakery is projected to open in October 2024. The bakery will focus on naturally leavened breads and a small menu of pastries. Seating will be limited to 16 guests. Alan Kim plans to keep prices affordable for the local community. The bakery is located near 31st Avenue and Crescent Street, close to subway transit.</p>