Brian Zipin

General Manager/Wine & Beverage Director

With a resume that reads like a movie script, Brian Zipin is the quintessential Renaissance man.  Beginning in his teens, Brian built an impressive career as a successful recording artist, actor, and musician while also cutting his teeth in some of New York City’s most storied restaurants including Cafe Des Artistes and Jack Rose.  Eventually making his way to legendary Chef Michel Richard, Brian then dedicated his focus to food and wine and flourished over an eight-year run with Chef Richard at both Citronelle and Central.  During his time as Sommelier of Citronelle, the restaurant received the James Beard Award for Best Wine Service in 2006.  Later, while leading Central as General Manager and Wine/Beverage Director, the restaurant received the 2008 James Beard Award for Best New Restaurant.  While Brian has earned an Advanced Diploma from The International Wine Center in NYC, his dedication to wine has not kept him from his greatest passion - shredding on his 1964 Fender Jaguar guitar.

As General Manager/Wine & Beverage Director of 1789 and The Tombs, Brian oversees every aspect of operations, strategy, and beverage for both restaurants.