Sullivan University changing culinary program, parts ways with celebrity chef John Castro

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- One of Louisville's top celebrity chefs is out of a job, the result of big changes at Sullivan University.

Winston's Restaurant was the flagship of Sullivan's nationally-known culinary program. But it, and Chef John Castro, have fallen victim to declining enrollment.

“I wouldn't say that I was absolutely blindsided. I knew that there was something going on, and as I told somebody, you know, it's a business,” Castro told WDRB News.

For years, business was good at Sullivan. During the recession the culinary program boomed as laid-off workers pursued new careers.

But an improved job outlook, combined with the declining popularity of fine dining, equals fewer students.

Now, the school is re-tooling the culinary program and that means Castro is out after 28 years.

“I loved what I did. Obviously I was there for a long time. I wouldn't have done it if I didn't love it. I hate that it did what it did at the end, but it did,” said Castro.

Winston's actually closed in October, but what's next is still a mystery.

In a statement, school chancellor Al Sullivan said, "a new food concept and restaurant redesign is being developed. The new concept will not require a chef with the experience Chef Castro has brought to the fine dining concept of Winston's."

“Like I said, it's a business, and sometimes -- and in order to survive -- as we know, every now and then you really have to make some hard decisions,” said Castro.

Sullivan is also ending its catering program, so long-time Chef Kim Jones is also out.

Castro has been a major influence in Louisville's restaurant scene.

He says, for now, he'll continue as consulting chef and partner in Yang Kee Noodle. But he's also looking for his next challenge.

“Who knows where I'm going to end up,” he said.

Sullivan says the students left in the catering program will be able to finish their degrees with classes taught by other faculty.