Chef Shuffle

It frankly didn't come as much of a surprise to hear that Fraîche Santa Monica chef Mazen Mustafa, a Paul Liebrandt (Corton) alum, had abruptly clocked out after only three months. His polished, beautifully-plated dishes felt very much amiss at the slightly more routine restuarant. Big thanks to the commenters who pointed this out. With regard to Mustafa's departure, Fraîche Management Group says: "I like Mazen, but we had some philosophical differences about the restaurant’s direction. He is an incredible talent, but I think he needs to be at a fine dining restaurant. Fraiche is rustic and more casual. I sincerely wish him all the best." [EaterWire] photo