Brabo Welcomes New Executive Chef Sebastien Rondier

Sebastien Rondier has been named executive chef of Brabo in Old Town Alexandria, taking command of the fine-dining establishment from outgoing chef de cuisine Harper McClure.

Per a release, Rondier has made the culinary rounds for over a decade, working both in D.C. — contributing to both Adour and Decanter at the St. Regis — and around the globe (the since-shuttered miX on the Beach in Puerto Rico; Kauai Grill in Hawaii).

Management says Rondier is starting immediately — his debut menu is expected this March — and will be assisted in the transition by McClure.

“We are thankful to Harper for his contribution to BRABO and wish him well in his future endeavors,” general manager Lauren Lathrop said in an official statement.

Prior to his three-and-a-half years at Brabo, McClure logged time in the kitchens at Marcel’s, Equinox, the since-shuttered Federalist and now-defunct Vidalia. He was nominated for Rising Culinary Star of the Year in 2015 as part of the Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington’s annual RAMMY awards.