Georges Perrier is handing the reins of the legendary Le Bec-Fin over to Nicolas Fanucci, general manager of Thomas Keller’s French Laundry in Napa Valley and former general manager of Le Bec, Perrier confirmed this evening.
In the deal, which was finalized Wednesday, Chef Nicholas Elmi will be replaced by someone from Keller’s organization. The restaurant will close in early April for renovations.
Perrier said that he will retain ownership of the building, a stake in the restaurant and an advisory role. “I will do what I do best: talk to people,” he told Foobooz, who broke the news yesterday. “I am charming.”
