Top Chef Michael Voltaggio Reveals Plans for New WeHo Restaurant

After Top Chef winner Michael Voltaggio left The Dining Room at the Langham Hotel, rumors swirled in torrents about what his next project might be. After months of speculation, Voltaggio has revealed he is preparing to open Ink. (yes, I-n-k-period) in the former Hamasaku spot on Melrose in West Hollywood, reports The Daily Dish.

Aiming to open late February 2011, the celebrated young chef is looking forward to incorporating elements of the onetime sushi eatery into his new concept; for example, he plans to "keep Hamasaku's sushi counter at Ink., where he will serve an omakase menu -- not Japanese, but several courses of the kind of food that best reflects his style of cooking -- dishes that might be considered 'fine-dining.'"

Part of prepping for the exciting new endeavor, details The Daily Dish, was getting some ink in honor of Ink. Voltaggio visited a friend's Venice tattoo shop, and left with the word "Ink." on his arm. Meanwhile, the space is being prepped, and Voltaggio is looking forward to serving his new customers in his 80-seat restaurant.