Chicago's Rick Bayless to Open Eateries in L.A., Santa Monica

EaterLA is confirming that Rick Bayless, Chicago's famed Mexican restauranteur, is opening two local restaurants. At first it was a rumor since Bayless was seen going restaurant-to-restaurant back in November, something that was unusual considering he hadn't visited Los Angeles in 15 years. Apparently, Bayless will take over the two spaces, the former Table 8 space on Melrose (scheduled to open in March) and the soon-to-be-shuttered Ma'Kai space in Santa Monica (scheduled to open in May). Bayless will head up both kitchens and be in town monthly to oversee operations.