Chef Shuffles: Mark Denham OUT, Ron Pei IN at Laiola

The Marina: Just in over the wire is the news that Laiola is the latest high-profile restaurant to undergo a chef change. Mark Denham, who has been the executive chef at the Chestnut Street hotspot since it opened last summer (and also earned three stars), is officially out. His replacement is Ron Pei, a 27-year-old vet of Postrio and Salt House.

According to owner Joe Hargrave, Pei won't give Denham's popular menu a complete overhaul, but will make some tweaks, including adding more pintxos-style tapas and a paella-only Monday night special. Other changes on the way at Laiola include a "revamped" cocktail menu and lunch service beginning in January 2009.
· Chef Shuffles: Ryan Scott Leaving Mission Beach Cafe [~ESF~]
· Chef Shuffles, Continued: Alex Marsh Out at Brick [~ESF~]
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