Francesco Mazzei leaves L'Anima
Chef Francesco Mazzei has left L'Anima restaurant in London EC2.
Mazzei launched L'Anima in 2008 with the backing of American property developer Peter Morano, having previously worked for restaurateurs Chris Corbin and Jeremy King as head chef of St Alban.
In a short statement, a spokesperson confirmed his departure and said: "Antonio Favuzzi, known as Lello, has taken over as head chef at L'Anima after six years with L'Anima Restaurant."
It is not yet known what Mazzei, who was unavailable for comment, will do next.
The Italian chef started his career earning money in a Calabrian gelateria, aged eight, and was a partner in a restaurant by the age of 18.
He held a share in Marylebone deli Cocorino together with Alan Yau's sister until it closed, and was also involved in the launch last year of L'Anima Cafe at 10 Appold Street.
