Veteran Sommelier with Michelin Star Background Opens Wine Haven in Unexpected Nook of Los Angeles

Opening a wine bar when you have vision and history can be an undertaking far beyond most people's capabilities. Sometimes the stars align and the project gets off the ground without a hitch. Other times it takes years for the right space to present itself, the right partners to fall into place, and the energy all coalesces into a form that is much bigger than the sum of its parts. This is CANTO VI , opening tonight in Los Angeles' Chatsworth neighborhood, much more known for being the porn capital of the world than as a wine destination. This is what Brian Kalliel and his partners from Liquid Catering & Partyworks have set out to fix. The San Fernando Valley is famous for the wrong reasons, and the residents have been longing for more upscale wine establishments. Today, they are getting a complete gem right in their backyard, with a forthcoming wine store in the space directly next door.

For years, Brian Kalliel was the wine director and head sommelier of Mélisse , a now Two Michelin Starred restaurant in Santa Monica, CA. At the time they were one of the few establishments in Los Angeles to be recognized by the Michelin Guide, prior to their departure entirely from auditing and recognizing Los Angeles area restaurants. Brian and his team garnered critical acclaim for their incredible wine list, next level wine pairings, and their dedication to ultimate hospitality and top service. For years after his exit, Brian dreamed of opening his own wine bar. Many start and stops over the years brought him to what I can best describe as a diamond in the rough. I truly believe CANTO VI is going to break your expectations of what can exist and flourish in LA's deep valley.

We worked together for an extended period during Brian's stint at Augustine Wine Bar, a Sherman Oaks wine bar that I co-founded and used to be the wine director. Our friendship was years old, as he would often stop by my first wine bar, Bar Covell, on his way home to Silverlake from nightly service at Mélisse. Brian loved to blind me and any sommeliers who happened to be gracing the bar late-night on an incredible bottle that was opened that evening, or something a collector sent him home with. We drank an ungodly amount of old vintage Champagne, Alsace, Bandol, Bordeaux, and Burgundy. The most memorable of them all, likely the most earth shattering wine I have ever tasted, was a 1980 Henri Jayer Echezeaux Grand Cru—an elusive producer because when Henri passed away in September 2006 his star rose exponentially and the wines become next to impossible to pry from the hands of collectors. I'd never had it before, and being honest with you, I have not had the chance to taste or drink from another bottle since. I am forever indebted to Brian for sharing this wine with me. The hairs are standing up on the back of my neck as I write this and think about what a stunning wine it was. I would venture to guess this sort of life-altering wine experience is potentially ahead of you during your visits to CANTO VI.

In January of this year, Brian told me he had a project he was working on. A wine bar. In Chatsworth...I thought he was out of his mind, but I knew how hard he'd been angling to get a wine bar project off the ground, and I offered my help and support in any way I could. To see him transform the idea to reality, in such an unexpected locale, has really been a magical journey to watch. The team is next level, supported on the food side by Chef/Partner Chester Hastings . You'll be dazzled by his incredible food menu, and I highly recommend signing up for his Substack where he shares weekly recipes and the stories behind them.

The Press Release

Tonight—June 28—marks the grand opening of CANTO VI, a visionary new establishment from Brian Kalliel, former Sommelier at Michelin-starred Melisse, and Chef Chester Hastings of Joans on Third. Nestled discreetly at 21356 Devonshire St, CANTO VI promises to redefine the dining landscape of the San Fernando Valley with its distinctive blend of old-school spirit and culinary finesse.

Brian Kalliel, known for his unorthodox approach to wine and irrepressible passion, describes CANTO VI as more than just a wine bar—it's a sanctuary for wine aficionados and food enthusiasts alike. "I wanted to create a place that feels like home for those who appreciate the artistry of wine and gastronomy," Brian shares. "CANTO VI is where sophistication meets rebellion, where every sip tells a story."

Chef Chester Hastings, renowned for his innovative dishes, has crafted a menu designed to complement the extensive selection of old-world wines curated by Brian. Dishes like “Littleneck clams steamed in gavi white wine with bottarga and venetian white polenta” exemplify the culinary creativity awaiting guests at CANTO VI.

The ambiance at CANTO VI is deliberately curated to be inviting and intimate, reminiscent of classic jazz clubs and speakeasies. Upon arrival, guests are greeted by a discreet doorman at iron-wrought doors adorned with grape motifs—an entrance that sets the stage for an unparalleled dining experience.

" In a landscape dominated by predictable choices, CANTO VI stands out. I remember going to places in Harlem with people dressed to the 9’s as a kid, and that’s what we’re gonna do here ,” Kalleil asserts.

CANTO VI: Beginnings & Traditions

CANTO VI: Beginnings & Traditions

CANTO VI is a modern wine-centric gastrobar with a unique blend of curated wines and innovative cuisine. Founded by renowned Sommelier Brian Kalliel, celebrated for his work at Michelin-starred establishments like Mélisse in Santa Monica, CANTO VI places his meticulously curated wine and cocktail list at the forefront of the dining experience. Chef Chester Hastings has created a menu of Western European classics, reimagined through the lens of simplicity and quality ingredients, echoing the age-old mantra of " take very good ingredients and do very little to them ." The result is a culinary journey where each dish is both creative yet classic, perfectly complementing the exceptional selection of fine wines and spirits on pour.

The name CANTO VI finds inspiration in Dante's Inferno and its section on gluttony, but with a unique twist that celebrates indulgence and life's finer pleasures. Here, guests are invited to revel in a tapestry of flavors and culinary craftsmanship. Just as Dante's journey through the Underworld sought enlightenment, CANTO VI offers a culinary exploration where each glass of wine and plate of food embodies the joy of savoring life's abundant offerings.

Throughout the world’s great wine regions, the history of wine-centric bars is a testament to the enduring relationship between wine and food. Enotecas in Italy trace their origins back to ancient Rome, where taverns called "tabernae vinariae" served as gathering places for locals to enjoy wine. Over time, these evolved into specialized shops dedicated to the appreciation and sale of wine. The Italian enoteca experience is characterized by a relaxed atmosphere, where patrons can sample a variety of wines by the glass or bottle. What makes the Italian approach unique is the emphasis on pairing wine with regional cuisine. Each wine is often accompanied by carefully selected local cheeses, cured meats, olives, and other delicacies that complement its flavors. This marriage of wine and food is deeply ingrained in Italian culture, reflecting the country's rich culinary heritage.

In France, the concept of wine bars go back to the 19th century, with the emergence of "bistrot à vin" or "cave à vin" in Paris and other cities. These establishments offered a casual setting for wine enthusiasts to gather and enjoy a glass of their favorite vintage. Over time, the French wine bar evolved into a sophisticated destination, known for its extensive wine lists and expert sommeliers. French wine bars are also beloved for their commitment to culinary excellence. Many wine bars in France offer a menu of small plates or "bistronomie" – elevated bistro-style dishes designed to complement the wines on offer. From foie gras and escargot to artisanal cheeses and charcuterie, French wine bars celebrate the country's gastronomic heritage while showcasing the diversity of French wine regions.

In Spain, the tradition of "bodegas" were first documented in Jerez in the 17th century. These rustic establishments originally served as wine cellars, where locals could purchase and sample wines directly from the barrel. Over time, bodegas evolved into vibrant social hubs, known for their lively atmosphere and generous pours of local vintages.

Spanish wine bars are known today for their focus on tapas – small plates of food designed to be shared among friends. From classic dishes like jamón ibérico and patatas bravas to innovative creations inspired by regional cuisines, the convivial nature of this type of dining encourages conversation and camaraderie, making the wine bar experience in Spain truly unique.

For more information, visit CANTO VI at 21356 Devonshire St, Chatsworth CA—follow on social media or visit the website for reservations and updates.