All three—champagne, caviar and Christopher—sparkle, and all three are on-hand at Petrossian West Hollywood.
Isolated from his fellow students at elementary school because of his ADD, Christopher would swing his legs wondering idly why he wasn’t included in class activity.
Perhaps it is this experience that has made him the most charming host at one of the most charming restaurants in West Hollywood. He makes everyone feel extraordinarily welcome and totally included. If only his classmates could see him now!
What was the first time you tasted champagne?
The first time was when I was 14 or 15, at my father’s restaurant on a New Year’s Eve celebration. Someone snuck me a small glass. I felt great when I was included in the toast.
Your first taste of caviar?
Five years ago when I joined the Petrossian family. [Christopher is now the general manager of the West Hollywood location.] The Petrossian company has taught me a lot about caviar, luxury and integrity. I love working here, and I love sharing the history of the company with diners.
I know that you're a big sports fan. What was the best game you ever watched?
No question—game six of the 2011 World Series. The St. Louis Cardinals were down to their last strike on several occasions, fighting back furiously to win. They eventually came from behind to a nail-biting victory over the Texas Rangers. Truly thrilling, edge-of-your-seat stuff. The Cardinals went on to win the World Series the following night, which made it all the better.
Describe your perfect date.
Dressing up, going to a show, followed by an amazing dinner and not once looking at the time.
The day you looked your best?
Whenever I am wearing a well-tailored suit! It has as much to do with the tailor as it does me. [He is being extremely modest. He is very handsome, with a most winning gap-toothed smile—part of his success.]
Best day at work so far?
Holidays. Friendly faces stopping by to buy caviar, catching up with their lives, hearing the changes they have gone through, their travels, plans for the new year. I have such a great clientele that on any given day I’m not sure who is going to stop by. I live in an air of high anticipation.
What music are you listening to at the moment?
Chuck Berry, after seeing the documentary Hail! Hail! Rock n’ Roll. We are both originally from St. Louis. He is such a dynamic, polarizing, complex and hugely talented man. I also listen to Andrew Bird, Juana Molina and Rufus Wainwright. I always have Talking Heads and David Byrne on a playlist. And I can’t stop listening to Kanye’s latest album, Yeezus.
The biggest surprise or shock of your life?
I was a senior in high school, up late watching The Breakfast Club—a great movie, by the way. About 1 a.m. my father came downstairs, which was unusual for him at that time of night. He looked out of sorts. It turned out he was having a major heart attack. My mother and I raced him off to the hospital. Luckily he is still with us today. But I tell you, that is surely something I have never forgotten.
Your favorite actress?
Hands down, Cate Blanchett. But I also think Marion Cotillard and Amy Adams are not far behind.
And lastly, boxers or briefs?
Is there no mystery left in the world? Boxer briefs, if I must answer.