Damon Wise Said to be Out at Tom Colicchio's Craft

Zagat reported over the weekend that Damon Wise, the longtime executive chef at Tom Colicchio's fine dining restaurant Craft is leaving the restaurant. According to the blog, Colicchio made the announcement to his staff this week and Wise will depart at the end of the month to work on opening his own project. Chef James Tracey will apparently run things in the transition.

A couple of months ago, back when Shane McBride left his position of chef de cuisine at Colicchio & Sons, we heard from some tipsters that Wise was on his way out as well. However at that time, Wise denied the rumors, saying all was well on the good ship Craft. Perhaps things have changed since.

We still await official confirmation from Wise and Colicchio's camp (who are still waiting on word from TC himself) on the Zagat report, so file under 'developing.'
· Breaking: Damon Wise Definitely Leaving Craft, Opening Own Restaurant in Fall [Zagat]
· Chef Shane McBride Out at Colicchio & Sons [~ENY~]
[Photo: Savory Cities]