The Wine Station, Open and Ready to Pour

With much excitement and anticipation, The Wine Station below Hope and Flower residences, opened for business on August 11th.  I met owner, Thibaud Duccini, who is from the South of France but has been on the scene in LA previously as General Manager of Wally’s in Beverly Hills. He has lived downtown for 15 years, so he knows downtown and South Park.

This is what he has to say.  

1. Who do you see as your target customer base? 

The core of our clientele are our neighbors. We really want to be part of the community and create a space where neighbors meet and mingle. In addition, due to our extensive wine collections we hope to attract wine collectors and connoisseurs.  

2. How does The Wine Station differentiate itself from Prank? 

Prank is a great neighborhood bar with a great patio like us. We offer a little more elevated culinary experience while keeping friendly prices.  

3. What are the backgrounds of yourself and the chef? 

I am originally from France and worked in Michelin star restaurants. I am WSET level 3 Sommelier and Certified Sommelier with Court of Master Sommeliers. Chef Romain worked under Chef Nikki Beach and owned a pizza truck in France which is why our pizzas are so delicious! 

4. What are the most essential elements you and the staff strive for? 

We are striving to make the place welcoming and warm. We want people to feel comfortable and to be able to come for a quick glass of wine or stay and enjoy a full dinner.  

5. What is one of the favorites on the menu? 

 Our rotisserie chicken goes perfectly with some of our burgundy selections. 

6. Are there other menu items you are planning to add? 

Currently, the summer menu features tomato burrata salad, Hamachi crudo, and crab salad. In winter, more robust dishes such as boeuf bourguignon and baked camembert will be offered.  

7. Are there any specials for South Park residents? 

Our wine club offers South Park residents two curated bottles every month. We offer monthly tastings on the first Thursday of each month. 

8. What is one message you would like to share with your neighbors? 

Come in, try us and you will love it! 

By Marty Goldberg