<div class="tldr">Elena Kim, longtime pastry chef at Buvette, has left the West Village bistro after six years. She is set to lead the pastry program at a new restaurant on West 23rd Street in Chelsea this July.</div>

<ul class="key-facts">

<li>Elena Kim spent six years at Buvette in the West Village.</li>

<li>The new Chelsea restaurant is scheduled to open in July 2024.</li>

<li>Buvette is now seeking a replacement for its pastry department.</li>

</ul>

Elena Kim’s departure from Buvette marks a notable transition for the West Village establishment. Buvette, a French-inspired bistro on Grove Street, has been known for its classic pastries and neighborhood following. Kim joined the restaurant in 2018 and oversaw its dessert menu during her tenure.

The new Chelsea project, according to public filings, will open at 207 West 23rd Street. The yet-unnamed restaurant is backed by the team behind Midtown’s Le Jardinier. Kim will be responsible for developing the dessert and bread offerings for the opening menu.

Buvette owner Jody Williams confirmed Kim's departure last week, stating that the search for a new pastry chef is underway. Regular customers can expect interim changes to the dessert menu until a permanent replacement is found. The restaurant will continue to operate with regular hours.

Kim expressed gratitude for her years at Buvette, citing the desire for new creative opportunities as her reason for leaving. The Chelsea restaurant is expected to announce further staffing and menu details in late June.

<h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2>

<h2>When will the new Chelsea restaurant open?</h2>

<p>The new restaurant at 207 West 23rd Street in Chelsea is scheduled to open in July 2024. The exact date has not yet been confirmed, but announcements are expected closer to the opening.</p>

<h2>Will Buvette's dessert menu change?</h2>

<p>Buvette is expected to make interim changes to its dessert menu while searching for a new pastry chef. Owner Jody Williams has confirmed regular service will continue, but the menu may feature updates until a permanent replacement is found.</p>

<h2>Who is backing the new Chelsea restaurant?</h2>

<p>The new Chelsea restaurant is being launched by the team behind Le Jardinier, a Midtown restaurant. Elena Kim will lead the pastry section, with further details on concept and staff expected by late June.</p>