Earnest, the south Chandler concept that evolved from fine-dining restaurant Cork, will close next week, owner-chef Danielle Morris announced via social media and email over the weekend:
‘‘While we’ve enjoyed your company through many years and the gracious community support in Chandler as we evolved from Cork to Earnest, we regretfully announce that we will be closing after Wednesday, March 30th.’’
Morris, her husband Robert, and chef Brian Peterson – a trio that worked together at Lon’s – opened Cork on the northeast corner of Alma School and Chandler Heights in 2008.
Despite winning rave reviews and numerous awards for its creative New American dishes, Cork couldn’t buck the post-recession decline in the popularity of fine dining.
In July 2014, Robert Morris left the restaurant, and Danielle Morris and Peterson rebranded the venue as Earnest, a more casual concept with entrees from $15 to $27 (compared to $28 to $34 at Cork).
