Steven Fretz OUT at The Church Key on Sunset Strip

Steven Fretz, the seasoned journeyman chef who helped open The Church Key on Sunset Strip a few years ago has exited the premises as of this morning. Word on the street was that he had a falling out with the partners. No replacement has been announced yet.

Bummer too because things have been kicking into high gear in terms of the food and drink program there. With a cavernous space in West Hollywood, The Church Key was a surprise hit that did very well with large groups and pre-party folks looking for a meal before heading out to the clubs.

Fretz's other project, Fin & Fire in Arts District, never materialized, though he's still one of the partners at Top Round, the fast-growing casual chain that serves excellent roast beef sandwiches.