Compose to Close, Then Reopen in Fall With Matthew Lightner as Chef

The departure of Nick Curtin left Compose in TriBeCa somewhat rudderless last month, but not for long.

The owner, Jodi Richard, has hired Matthew Lightner from Castagna in Portland, Ore., who has been recognized as one of that city’s most talented young chefs. To tempt him, she promising a kitchen equipped with more than just the induction cooktops that Mr. Curtin had to make do with. With the help of Mr. Lightner, she is installing a test kitchen on the basement level of the restaurant, and some honest-to-goodness fire for cooking.

Compose closes this weekend for renovations. In September, the restaurant is to reopen with a new name.