Is Michelin-Starred Chef Justin Bogle Landing at Le Bec?

Eater Philly is hearing that superstar chef Justin Bogle—who most recently ran the kitchen at Gilt, which was awarded two Michelin stars in '09,'10, and '11 before closing in 2012—is taking over the executive chef position at Le Bec Fin. While no one has confirmed Bogle's arrival at Le Bec Fin just yet, he's got some serious connections in the Philly food scene, which includes having worked the line at Alma De Cuba under Jose Garces and Douglas Rodriguez, and in the kitchen at the Striped Bass when Christopher Lee was in charge. Bogle received his culinary training at The Restaurant School at Walnut Hill, as well.

Chef Walter Abrams was tapped to be the debut chef for the Le Bec Fin reboot, but left his position after just 8 months on the line. Per Se stud David Breeden was seen around town with LBF honcho Nicolas Fanucci before the Abrams announcement happened, and many insiders believe he was the first choice for Le Bec Fin 2.0.

As usual, rumors are rumors until they're confirmed, but, if this one ends up being legit (the source is very close to the fire), this is the best possible situation for Fanucci & Co. and could absolutely save his reboot of the famous Philly culinary landmark.

UPDATE: The rumor mill is working overtime, and it looks like Nicolas Fanucci might be out of the fold altogether, as restaurateur Chris Scarduzio has been seen working the line the last few days. But, our sources for the Bogle news are close to the supposed new regime taking over LBF, so that piece of good news is still in play. It's going to get crazier. Stay tuned.

· All Le Bec Fin Coverage [~EPHI~]
· All Justin Bogle Coverage [~EPHI~]
· Shakeup at Le Bec Fin [Philly.com]