He is to be a consultant for Ark Restaurants, which owns 19 restaurants in Manhattan.

But that is changing now that it is owned by Ark Restaurants.

Jonathan Waxman, the executive chef of Ark Restaurants, served grilled chicken and fries.

Soltner became chef-owner of Lutece until it was sold to Ark Restaurants in the 1990s.

There were also some "difficult business relationships," including a partnership with Ark Restaurants.

Ms. Smith's partner is Ark Restaurants, a company whose holdings now include Lutece.

The bakery, owned by Ark Restaurants, opened to the public yesterday afternoon.

It was his recent break with Ark Restaurants, his former partner, that made it all possible, he said.

Michael Weinstein, the president of Ark Restaurants, which owned Poiret, said business had dropped off since 1991.

Ark Restaurants became involved in the project about five years ago, but still the restaurants are opening a year later than Mr. Weinstein had planned.