Erik Bruner-Yang is Stepping Down from Toki Underground

Erik Bruner-Yang is stepping down from his role as executive chef and owner at Toki Underground, the Atlas District's popular ramen restaurant.

The chef, who is also behind the ambitious Maketto in the same neighborhood, is moving on to focus on new projects, such as his upcoming restaurant at The Line Hotel in Adams Morgan. A spokeswoman for Bruner-Yang confirmed the change Monday morning.

Bruner-Yang opened Toki in April 2011 as one of the city's first serious ramen joints, and the restaurant has received acclaim for its food ever since (the restaurant has remained popular since its debut, often drawing long waits).

Bruner-Yang is one of two high-profile chefs who will open restaurants at The Line Hotel next year, a new hotel project from Sydell Group. Baltimore James Beard Award winner Spike Gjerde (Woodberry Kitchen) will also open a restaurant in the hotel.

Jonathan Uribe will take over operations at the restaurant, according to Toki's co-owners.