In a Surprise Move, Michael Voltaggio Is Closing His Flagship Restaurant in L.A.—But Don't Get Too Upset

In rather surprising news, Top Chef Season 6 winner Michael Voltaggio announced that he's shutting down Ink, his flagship restaurant in Los Angeles, this weekend, as reported by the Los Angeles Times. Voltaggio opened Ink in 2011, two years after winning the Top Chef title by narrowly edging out his equally talented brother Bryan.

But fans of the chef's innovative steakhouse-inspired cuisine shouldn't fret about the restaurant closing, because Voltaggio is already planning to open a new spot in just "two to three weeks," he told the Times. Located a half mile away from Ink, the new eatery—called Ink.well—will retain some of the same elements of Ink, along with a brand-new bar program.

So what can you expect from the new and improved Ink.well, other than killer cocktails? The menu will feature a few more casual dishes, including a burger for the first time. There will also be a section reserved for walk-in diners—again, a nod to a more casual dining environment.

Voltaggio noted that he's now “cooking for the guest” instead of himself, making his cuisine more accessible to everyone.

A more relaxed restaurant with approachable food and outstanding drinks? Sounds like a winning move to us.