TASTE OF THE VALLEY
O
riginally from New Rochelle, New York, Richard DiSisto got his first taste of the food business in 1964 at his grandfather’s restaurant. He knocked on the kitchen door, and the cook handed him a pizza dough ball. It was a desire to recreate his family’s business that led Richard to the Valley, where he founded Vantage Restaurant Group. He now runs Tipple & Brine, Tunnel Bar and Downtown Johnny’s in Sherman Oaks. If you were bartending, name three of your favorite movie characters to sit front and center? “Animal from The Muppet Show, Jessica Rabbit from Who Framed Roger Rabbit, Frank White played by Christopher Walken in King of New York.” Why did you choose Sherman Oaks as a location for all three restaurants? “It’s a part of Ventura Boulevard that had been passed over, and I saw nothing but potential.” What kind of change do you hope your presence will bring to the area? “My investment in this community has already brought great change and inspired
78
VENTURA BLVD, SUMMER 2015
RICHARD DISISTO
Owner Vantage Restaurant Group: Downtown Johnny’s, Tipple & Brine, Tunnel Bar
14633 & 14649 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks 818-528-2580 | downtownjohnnys.com tippleandbrine.com | tunnelbarla.com
FAST FACT Richard is a big supporter of the LAPD and sits on the community police advisory board. He is also the vice president of the Sherman Oaks Chamber of Commerce. others to invest in our community. I hope to continue it—to reach its full potential as a dining destination.” What inspired the names of your restaurants? “Family members, New York and random concepts that float around in my mind.” At the ripe age of 21, of course, what was the first drink you ever ordered at a bar? “Sea Breeze.”
What is your go-to “30-minute” meal? “Good pizza.” If you were absolutely forced to eat a fast food burger, which would it be? “Big Mac ... but it looks a bit smaller than I remember these days.” What can guests expect when they visit your establishment? “Good ol’ hospitality and fun.” Why did you choose to go into the food industry? “It chose me, I guess.” Tell us about your team. “Upbeat, fun, focused, driven to succeed.” How do you distinguish yourself from the competition? “I just do my thing my way and don’t worry about competition. I see others as good for business and my community. It also forces you to keep on your game.” What do you like to do for fun, when you’re not at work? “Play softball, boats, motorcycles, have a drink with a friend.”
S P E C I A L A DV E RT I S I N G S E CT I O N