Richie Farina Promoted To Exec Chef at Moto; Posey Vs. Goss in Yusho Ramen Battle; More

FULTON MARKET—Richie Farina has been promoted to executive chef at Moto as the restaurant prepares to celebrate its ten year anniversary. Farina, who has been with the restaurant for over six years, took over the chef de cuisine position vacated by Chris Jones in June of 2012, becoming a partner in the process. Moto's anniversary menu runs from January 29 through February 8 and will include twelve courses with ten wine pairings at the opening day price of $165 (before tax and tip). [EaterWire]

LOGAN SQUARE—A ramen battle is happening Sunday, February 9 at Yusho between PQM's Cosmo "Publican Enemy" Goss and Blackbird's David "Smackbird" Posey. $25 gets you the ramen of your choice, a draft cocktail or craft soda, and a soft serve. Guests will also be able to vote, on a 1-5 scale (5 being the highest), on which chef's ramen is the best. This will be Yusho's first in a series of monthly ramen battles between local chefs. [EaterWire]

GOLD COAST—Luxbar has announced Shaun Connolly as its new executive chef. Connolly states that the restaurant is "taking a step back to reflect on the tradition of American pub fare," promising uncomplicated, flavorful food featuring simple, high quality and local ingredients. [EaterWire]

GOLD COAST—In celebration of its one-year anniversary, Little Market Brasserie will be giving away $1 meal checks to random guests from Monday, January 13 through Sunday, January 19. [EaterWire]

CHICAGO—MasterChef Junior is holding open call auditions January 18 for kids ages 8 through 13. If your tot has some kitchen skills, they may have a shot at winning the $100,000 grand prize like 13 year-old Alexander Weiss did back in November. Full details can be found on the casting and show websites. [EaterWire]
Moto's Richie Farina [Photo credit: Amy Stallard]