In early August 12-year-old restaurant Axe on Abbot Kinney closed due to fire damage and was slated to reopen in October. Since the blaze, rumors circulated that the restaurant closed for good. Owner Joanna Moore cleared up some of the rumors with Squid Ink.

The building, which is undergoing a comprehensive upgrade, will be under construction for at least another two months, Moore wrote in an email. “It's taking time,” but the owner of Axe is doing some catering on the side — her most recent job cooking for the 2010 MOCA “Happening” gala. “It was a one time thing. I can't say I am officially catering but I am open to it.” As for the next phase of Axe, known for serving organic California “soul food,” Moore is exploring the possibilities. “I have had interest in the restaurant and I am open to offers!”

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