MIDTOWN EAST— This just in over the wire, apparently from a huge Manuel Trevino fan: "Top Chef season 4's Manuel Trevino was let go from Dos Caminos yesterday morning for no apparent reason...Manuel's departure came as a shock to the staff at the restaurant, where he was deeply loved and greatly respected. The shock was felt company wide as many managers and chefs...quietly expressed their disgust in fear that they might be next." BR Guest, naturally, tells a different side to the story. Here's their official statement:

"Effective immediately, Manuel Trevino, executive chef of Dos Caminos Third Avenue, has left B.R. Guest Restaurants to pursue other opportunities. B.R. Guest Restaurants wishes Manuel the best of luck in future endeavors and we will be rooting for him during this season of Top Chef. Dos Caminos Third Avenue will be overseen by Corporate Executive Chef of Dos Caminos Scott Linquist."