Greg Zanotti In as Executive Chef at Muselet

Jeff Smith, Muselet's director of brand and communications, let it drop today that Ron Acierto's upcoming South Waterfront restaurant has just landed the cooking talents of Greg Zanotti, who, for the last 18 months, had been working alongside James Beard Nominated-chef Justin Woodward at Castagna.

Smith is mum for now on what Zanotti's menu will look like, other than to say that the "globally inspired" dishes will comprise locally farmed, seasonal, fresh vegetables prepared alongside locally raised meats.

What he will say is that he and his team are excited to have landed such a big catch. During tasting interviews, Zanotti wowed everyone, Smith says, with a casual approach that used simple ingredients that allowed each one to shine through. Zanotti's cooking, Smith says, has "clarity."

In other words, Zanotti made a lot of out a little. The 60-plus seat spot, already known for its devotion to local and imported wines and champagnes, could open its doors by early April. Stay tuned to see what cooking cards Zanotti has up his chef's sleeves.

Muselet, 3730 SW Bond Ave., Portland