Michael Voltaggio Closes Ink: The Next Chapter With Ink.well

Given the level of restless energy that Michael Voltaggio carries along with his chef’s whites and tattoos, it’s perhaps less surprising that he’s closing his acclaimed Melrose Avenue restaurant Ink than that he’s kept it open this long. Since September 2011, Ink has been serving Voltaggio’s technique-driven and progressive cuisine. After this Sunday night’s dinner service, Voltaggio will close both the doors of Ink and its chapter in his career.

The chef shared, “I outgrew it.” But for those familiar with his rapid career evolution, it is no surprise that he won’t wait long before opening a new venture. His new flagship restaurant, Ink.well, is set to open about half a mile away on La Cienega Boulevard, in the space previously occupied by Hutchinson restaurant and the Spanish Kitchen before that. Voltaggio plans to retain the old neon sign from the previous establishments.

“I’m shooting for two to three weeks,” Voltaggio shared on the timeline for Ink.well. “I’ve had the space for 10 days.” He is personally designing the new restaurant, which will blend elements from Ink with a fresh bar program — hence the name Ink.well. It refers not just to the bar experience but also to the idea of living well and being well. The name holds significant meaning for him.

Biography of Michael Voltaggio

Michael Voltaggio is known for his innovative approach to cooking and his vibrant personality. He gained fame as