Thomas Raquel, a 27-year-old vet of Chicago's renowned L20 and more recently Acadia has signed on as Le Bernardin's new executive pastry chef. He replaces Laurie Jon Moran, who has held the coveted position at Eric Ripert's four-star restaurant since Michael Laiskonis left in 2012. Zagat hears that Raquel, who takes over at the end of the month, plans to introduce some new desserts in the fall, and will eventually change the lunch menu to include "lighter" desserts like tarts and other French pastries. He also plans to introduce a dessert tasting menu, perhaps to rival the legendary one at Per Se. No word on the reason for Laurie Jon Moran's departure, but Eater has reached out the the Le Bernardin team for details. Update: A representative tells Eater that Moran left the restaurant on good terms, "to explore other opportunities."
· Off the Menu [NYT]
· Le Bernardin Appoints New Pastry Chef, Chicago's Thomas Raquel [Zagat]
· All Coverage of Le Bernardin [~ENY~]
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