Jen Biesty Leaving Scala's Bistro For Own Spot

After more than four years at the helm of Scala's Bistro in the Sir Francis Drake Hotel (an eternity in chef time), Top Chef alum Jen Biesty is leaving at the end of March to pursue opening her own restaurant, according to Inside Scoop. Though she hasn't locked down a space yet, Biesty is hoping for a 60- to 70-seat restaurant focusing on Spanish, Mediterranean, and/or Middle Eastern flavors, a shift from the Italian fare she's been doing at Scala's.

After appearing on the fourth season of Top Chef in 2008, Biesty left her executive chef job at Coco500 to take the position at Scala's. Her work there earned her 2.5 stars from Michael Bauer during his most recent visit, in 2009.

· Jen Biesty discusses leaving Scala's Bistro — and her new project [Inside Scoop]
· All Jen Biesty coverage [~ ESF ~]