Remi Lauvand and Citrus at Social part ways
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Yesterday Eater L.A. reported that chef Remi Lauvand was no longer at Citrus, although at the time the claim was unconfirmed. Citrus’ publicists have confirmed that Lauvand and Citrus at Social ‘have parted ways’ and that ‘in the interim sous chef Omri Aflalo is the acting executive chef. Aflalo trained under Michel Richard at Citronelle, in addition to working with Gary Danko at Restaurant Gary Danko and with Michael Mina at Aqua.’
Whether Lauvand left on his own or was asked to leave remains to be seen. Some speculate that the restaurant wasn’t doing the type of business that was expected of it, especially since Richard wasn’t actually in the kitchen. On April 9, Times Restaurant Critic S. Irene Virbila gave Citrus an enthusiastic three stars but noted, ‘Lauvand is turning out very polished food at Citrus at Social. Big question: Will the coterie of fine diners from the Westside make it this far east on a regular basis? And will the condominiums and the W Hotel in Hollywood be built in time to save the day? From the looks of it, they don’t seem to be turning the tables much, even on the weekends.’
No further details are available at this time, but check back here for updates.
-- Jessica Gelt
