Chef Justin Smillie, who took over the helm at E.U. after Akhtar Nawab's departure, was recently fired by owner Jason Hennings. According to Grub Street, Hennings blamed Smillie's unwillingness to cut costs by forgoing Greenmarket shopping: “After six months of 45 percent food costs in a recession, Justin paid more respect to the Greenmarket than to the restaurant.” Smillie reportedly took his entire crew with him. In the meantime, Hennings has put a replacement team......

It was a big night for New York at last night’s James Beard Awards. The "Oscars of food" took place at Avery Fisher Hall complete with red carpet and celebrity hosts--Sex and the City's Kim Cattrall joined Iron Chef Bobby Flay at the podium, and much like the Oscars, engaged in some rather awkward “witty” banter: Kim: I’d like to have a throwdown with you, Bobby. Bobby: Sure, I’d challenge you in the kitchen anytime.......

On all counts, Michael Psilakis has been on quite a roll. Though his two-starred Dona was shuttered due to a real estate snafu, he went on to earn a Michelin star at Anthos, one of only two Greek restaurants with this honor, his to-die-for gnudi recipe was featured on the cover of Bon Appetit, was named Esquire's chef of the year, and opened up Mia Dona, which just yesterday earned two stars from Frank Bruni.......