After an abrupt exit from his position as the executive chef of EMM Group last year, former Abe & Arthur’s and Brasserie chef Franklin Becker has finally found his next restaurant project, which will land him in the Flatiron district on West 18th Street, where he’ll open Cast Iron in November. “I’m still waiting for the official lease, which I hope to have this week,” says Becker. The 120-seat restaurant’s menu will focus on local vegetables and sustainable seafood, such as Point Judith squid à la plancha with fennel, orange, mint, and chilis; and clams and mussels in Vinho Verde with garlic, tomato, and extra virgin olive oil. “There will be a handful of dishes for two that are $25, but everything else will be below $25,” explains the chef, who says that he recommends two people order about 7 plates each, but if diners want to come in and sample a plate or two, they will be welcome to. Becker can also be seen on season five of Top Chef Masters, which premieres this week. [Related]
