Montagne Out, Zanella In as Big Changes Hit C Chicago Seafood Spot

Less than seven months after opening its doors, C Chicago is experiencing an executive chef change. Veteran chef Dean Zanella (Chicago Firehouse, Rhapsody) has taken the helm from Bill Montagne (Le Bernardin, Lettuce Entertain You) in the wake of Montagne's resignation, according to the Tribune.

Zanella is already working on implementing changes to the bright and swanky seafood spot on Kinzie Street and has unveiled a special prix fixe menu, dubbed "Elevation." The menu, which is available from 3:00 p.m. until 11:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday, features four courses (including main dish choices of branzino, Scottish salmon, black bass, red snapper or an 8-ounce prime filet) paired with five specialty wines for a very reasonable $80. The full "Elevation" prix fixe menu can be seen below.

The seafood restaurant, from Chicago Cut owners David Flom and Matt Moore has had a rocky start since opening from all indications. It was eviscerated by Chicago magazine critic Jeff Ruby back in August and high price points appear to be part of the culprit for the restaurant's lack of steady traffic, something Zanella is addressing.

The  seasoned chef, whose personal tragedy last year received an outpouring of love and support from the restaurant community, sees an opportunity to bring the same level of food and service at C Chicago but at a price that won't break customers' banks. Keep an eye here for more details on Zanella's changes as they are revealed.