Third Chef Installed at Year-Old the Bird

Just four months after the Bird’s founding chef Michael Bonk handed the reins over to seasoned chef Tracy O’Grady, there’s already a new replacement at EatWell DC’s colorful Logan Circle restaurant.

Rising chef Ryan Hackney, whose five-year culinary career has included stints at 701 and Bibiana, is stepping into his first executive chef role at the poultry-focused eatery.

It’s unclear why it didn’t work out with O’Grady — or what her future plans are — but the restaurant says there’s “no animosity” regarding her departure. This summer, Bonk flew the coop to sign on as chef de cuisine at corporate chain BLT Steak.

Hackney, a D.C. native, plans to “explore different flavors and to add a little unexpected danger to some of the dishes,” he says.

That includes adding in Asian twists, with new entrees and bar snacks for the winter under his watch announced soon. Its most popular offerings, ranging from the house wings to chicken fried waffles, will stay put.