Fine-Dining Legend Masa's to Close February 16

Masa's, in happier days. [Photo: Masa's]

As one fine-dining spot emerges, another shuts its doors: Inside Scoop brings word that Michelin-starred Masa's in the Executive Hotel Vintage Court plans to close on February 16 after more than 30 years in business. The restaurant, which began under Masataka Kobayashi and has since played home to Richard Reddington, Julian Serrano, and Ron Siegel, is losing its chef of eight years, Gregory Short, to a corporate gig with food giants Aramark; Short would like to spend more time with his family.

The hotel's CFO confirmed to Scoop that the restaurant will be changing format, likely to a more casual concept, and a receptionist said they expect the space to be closed for three to four months during that transition. Like the Ritz-Carlton Dining Room's transformation into Parallel 37, it's another tough break for classically refined restaurants in an age of more casual fare. In its final two weeks of life, Masa's will continue as always; we'll keep you posted on any special reunions or goodbye dinners in the space.

· Masa's to close, while chef Gregory Short starts a new chapter [Inside Scoop]
· All Masa's posts [~ ESF ~]