Los Angeles—home to sunny skies, beautiful beaches and breathtaking views—is not only desirable for its surroundings but also for the variety of successful, dynamic and fascinating men who reside here. In celebration of our men’s issue, we’ve chosen eight influential Angelenos, diverse in their chosen occupation, hobbies, neighborhood they call home and more. This charismatic (and for those wondering, unmarried) crew represents much of what we love about LA—that whether you want the best in food, entertainment, athletics, real estate or whatever you’re looking for, you can find it in the City of Angels. In an attempt to encapsulate LA’s tapestry of talent and culture, we’ve included a professional athlete, power publicist, award-winning photographer, green-living expert, TV chef, real estate mogul, singer/songwriter and celebrity. They all share a passion for their careers and the city they call home. And that’s why we’re passionate about them.
Marcel Vigneron
Height: 5’8”
Age: 30
Hometown: Bainbridge Island, WA
Profession: Executive chef, Bar210; contestant, Top Chef (season two)
I love my job because… cooking challenges you to utilize all of your senses. The kitchen beats a cubicle, and ingredients are more fun to play with than a keyboard.
Some of the things I am looking for in a partner are… someone who is down to earth, outgoing, spontaneous, not afraid to have character or stand up for what she believes in—beautiful inside and out.
On weekends, you can find me… cruising with the top down and chrome spinnin’ or at the gym working on the guns!
One thing you’d be surprised to know about me is… contrary to popular belief, I’m actually not a villain.
My proudest professional moment was… when I became an executive chef and sold my TV show, Marcel’s Quantum Kitchen, to the Syfy network in the same week.
My ideal first date is… intimate and personal. I’d take a lady to the farmers’ market, pick out what looks appetizing and make a spontaneous meal from the ingredients. I can get to know what type of person she is and what her palate is like right off the bat.
The neighborhood I live in is… West Hollywood—smack dab in the middle of everything.
The quality my mom would brag about is… I’m a true gentleman.
When I want a beer or a glass of wine, I go to… El Carmen. It’s a great way to unwind with the kitchen crew after a long night’s service.
I would describe my style as… a chameleon—adapts to any environment but stays true to form.
Shirt and pants, Reiss. 145 N. Robertson Blvd., LA; reissonline.com. Vest, John Varvatos. 8800 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, johnvarvatos.com. Shot on location at Bar 210, 9876 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills; bartwooneoh.com
Andy Gelb
Height: 5’10”
Age: 41
Hometown: Miami Beach, FL
Profession: Partner, Slate PR
I love my job because... no two days are ever the same.
I imagine myself in five years… doing the same thing—but with kids.
What I love most about LA is… floating in my pool on a hot sunny day—in January.
Some of the things I am looking for in a partner are… a mix of GQ and IQ.
On weekends, you can find me… hiking the canyons with my dog, Ruben.
Twitter or Facebook? Facebook. I’m too busy going places to update people on where I’m going!
My proudest professional moment was… starting Slate PR with my partners.
My ideal first date is… in a box at the Hollywood Bowl.
The neighborhood I live in is… West Hollywood. I’m equidistant from Barneys New York and Target.
On a special occasion, the restaurant I would choose is… Chateau Marmont.
