Chef Rick heads to the Far West(ern)
July 1, 2011
Chef Rick Manson (R) with one of his many fans, musician Jackson Browne
Chef Rick’s, the upscale funky Orcutt restaurant that tempted more than a few foodies to make the trek south from San Luis Obispo County, has closed after 22 years. [Santa Maria Times]
The iconic eatery, tucked away in the corner of a nondescript shopping center officially served its last meal on June 25. Owner Rick Manson, who has personally prepared meals for the likes of Oprah Winfrey, will assume new duties as the executive chef at the Far Western Tavern, another classic Central Coast establishment, currently in the process of relocating to Orcutt from Guadalupe.
Plans call for the new Far Western, which dates back to 1958, to open in Spring 2012 in Old Town Orcutt.
“I have a wonderful opportunity to do something I just feel is part of the evolution of my career, which is to be part of something bigger,” Manson said of his move.
Manson said he will not only take some of his Chef Rick’s staff to the Far Western with him, but also some of his recipes.
“We’ll keep the core (Far Western) menu, and I’ll bring in my touch with specials,” he said. “It’s a win-win for both of us.”
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