Rick Bayless' LA Debut: Red O to Open in April

Details are out now about well-known Chicago-based chef Rick Bayless' foray into L.A. The innovator of Mexican cuisine in America is partly behind a new Melrose Ave endeavor in the former Table 8 Moustache Cafe space. Red O is Bayless' only venture outside of Chi-Town, however his role will largely be a bit more hands-off than previous speculations. Bayless will be creating and updating the menu seasonally, training kitchen staff, and overseeing the beverage program, a task that includes assembling the tequila list that will pair with his dishes (look out, Rivera!).Bayless has a particular "culinary vision" for his would-be Los Angeles clientele. His menu will boast authentic Mexican fare and "lighter 'California-style' dishes" aimed at pleasing our diversified palates. There will be large plates for sharing, snacks and bites, traditional entrees, and a selection of "Savory Snacks," of which many already might entice your tastebuds, like the Pork Belly Sopes or Woodland Mushroom Queso Fundido.

In a space designed by Dodd Mitchell Design and G + Gulla Jonsdottir Design, patrons should be able to drink in the entire restaurant while drinking their tequila thanks to the open floorplan. Red O will open for dinner service in April, and eventually expand to serve lunch and brunch. That same month, Bravo will premiere Top Chef Masters' 2nd season, and viewers can see which famous chef will take over the winner's title from Bayless, who nabbed victory in season one.