Rene De Leon OUT at The Dawson

Less than a month in, and there's already a change in the kitchen at Billy Lawless' massive The Dawson. Rene De Leon is out as head chef, replaced by his sous chef Patrick Russ.

Reasons for De Leon's exit are scant at the moment and The Dawson reps will only say that he has "chosen to pursue other opportunities." De Leon came over from an upscale cooking experience at Next to mastermind the food program at the 400-seat "drinking-focused" behemoth, attempting to create an approachable menu while employing the creative techniques he learned under Grant Achatz and Dave Beran.

Russ is also a Next alumni and will be expanding the menu soon and introducing brunch. De Leon's next move is anyone's guess.
· After Leaving Next, Rene De Leon to Run Kitchen at The Gage's West Town Project [-ECHI-]
· All Coverage of The Dawson [-ECHI-]