Top Chef finalist Michael Voltaggio was named the Chef de Cuisine at the Langham Hotel’s Michelin starred Dining Room in Pasadena.  While all Top Chef fans are waiting with baited breath to find out who won this season, Voltaggio has been the chef to watch on the show with a clear vision, bad boy tattoos, and a certain calm during any storm.  He’s consistent, on the show at least, in turning out dishes that make us envy those judges even more than normal.

Now, having worked previously at The Bazaar and as a guest chef for Breadbar’s Hatchi series, Southern California can rest assured he’s here to stay.  His a la carte menu at The Dining Room features his signature take on classic and sometimes simple ingredients such as Foie Gras with Aerated Brioche and Concord Grape, Wagyu Beef Short Rib, and a Black Bass with Quinoa and Fennel.  There is also a tasting menu, which will surely put on display all he learned on Top Chef.  If that Langoustine is under-seasoned, I’m calling Padma.