Michael Cardenas Snags Beacon, Hires Former El Bulli Chef, Spanish Concept To Come

Just moments from the debut of Michael Cardenas' (IDG, Lazy Ox Canteen) Toranoko, the seasoned restaurateur already has his sights set on two new eateries, another Japanese spot downtown and a Spanish concept within the now shuttered Beacon in Culver City. Sweet! Cardenas has hired 32-year old modern Spanish chef Perfecto Rocher (sounds like the name of a graffiti artist or something) who, in the past, has worked under the revered Ferran Adria at El Bulli, at Martin Berasategui in San Sebastian, though around town he could most recently be found at The Blvd within the Four Seasons Beverly Wilshire. Also, back during the Test Kitchen days, Perfecto co-cooked a Spanish-themed meal with friend Walter Manzke. In fact, Cardenas originally reached out to Manzke to cook at his upcoming Culver City space, though Manzke was too busy traveling (and working on his own resto?), thus Manzke suggested Perfecto. And BOOM, it's a done deal. Look for an opening around May.
·Beacon Cafe Ending Its Run in Culver City [~ELA~]