Chef Garrett Lipar from shuttered Torino joins Marais in Grosse Pointe

Chef Garrett Lipar, who ran the kitchen at the celebrated Torino in Ferndale until it abruptly closed earlier this year, has been tapped to head the high-end French restaurant, Marais in Grosse Pointe, the Freep says. Described by food critic Sylvia Rector as "an unprecedented move," Lipar has joined forces with the eatery's European-trained chef-owner David Gilbert.

In an announcement published online Tuesday, Sept. 1, Gilbert and wife/co-ower, Monica, said the transition is to take place Sept. 4. "Given Garrett’s remarkable culinary career, we are excited for him to take over and continue to execute our vision for excellence, while at the same time, bringing his own style and influence to the menu and dining experience."

Lipar and the rest of the staff at award-winning Torino unexpectedly found himself out of a kitchen back in June, when Oakland County health code inspectors shut the tiny restaurant because it was too small to accommodate his Scandinavian-inspired, prix fixe menu.

Rector goes on to say that Lipar's role as executive chef of Marais will afford him full control of the kitchen and culinary direction. Gilbert will continue to run the front of the house, while Monica Gilbert will manage the establishment's wine program. We've reached out to Marais and will fill you in with further details once they become available.