Midtown seafood restaurant SeaSalt Grill announced on June 3, 2024, that Executive Chef Laura Chen will depart in July. Chef Michael Rossi is named as her successor.

  • Laura Chen has led SeaSalt Grill’s kitchen since 2020.

  • Michael Rossi will start as Executive Chef on July 1, 2024.

  • The restaurant is located at 45 West 45th Street in Midtown Manhattan.

SeaSalt Grill is undergoing a leadership change in its kitchen with the departure of Executive Chef Laura Chen after four years. Chen announced her decision to leave the Midtown seafood restaurant in early June. She plans to pursue other culinary projects outside of New York City.

Chef Michael Rossi, formerly sous chef at SeaSalt Grill, will be promoted to Executive Chef effective July 1, 2024. Rossi has been part of the restaurant’s kitchen staff since 2021. His previous experience includes positions at several New York seafood-focused restaurants.

The restaurant’s ownership stated the transition aims to maintain the current menu style while allowing Rossi to introduce subtle changes. SeaSalt Grill is known for its seasonal seafood offerings and casual dining atmosphere.

Laura Chen’s departure marks a shift after her tenure coincided with the restaurant’s growth in Midtown. Rossi faces the challenge of sustaining the restaurant’s reputation amid a competitive dining market. No immediate changes to the restaurant’s operating hours or service model have been announced.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will Laura Chen officially leave SeaSalt Grill?

Laura Chen will officially leave SeaSalt Grill at the end of June 2024, with her last day being June 30. She announced her departure in early June to pursue other culinary ventures.

Who is Michael Rossi and what is his background?

Michael Rossi is the incoming Executive Chef at SeaSalt Grill. He joined the restaurant as sous chef in 2021 and has prior experience at other New York seafood restaurants, focusing on seasonal and sustainable ingredients.

Will the restaurant’s menu change after the chef transition?

The restaurant plans to maintain its current seafood-focused menu. Chef Rossi may introduce subtle updates but there are no announced major changes to the style or concept at this time.

Editorial Transparency. A first draft of this story was produced with AI-assisted writing tools, then reviewed for accuracy and tone by the named editor before publication. More on our process: Editorial Policy.

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