New Chefs at Francesca Forno, Davanti Enoteca

Following news that it would close and become a new restaurant, Francesca's Forno merely had a makeover and re-opened in mid-July. Along with the new look came a revamped menu, courtesy of executive chef Larry Tio, who focused on larger share plates featuring more seasonal ingredients.

Eater now learns that Tio is no longer the top guy in the kitchen and is, in fact, no longer part of the Francesca restaurant organization, which is owned by restaurateur Scott Harris. There's no word on why Tio is out, but he was replaced by chef Kael Klassen, who previously was at Francesca's on Chestnut.

In related news, another Harris restaurant has had some changes in the kitchen, but in this case, it's all about promotion. Former Davanti Enoteca exec chef Jon Beatty was promoted to a position as corporate chef with the company and will oversee Davanti's growth as it expands here and elsewhere, like in San Diego. His sous chef at the restaurant, Matteo Burns, has been promoted to exec chef and will introduce some new dishes this season.

Matteo Burns [Photo: Davanti Enoteca]