Matthew Kaner Faces the Music, Daily Fresh Deli Opens, New Chef at First & Hope

AROUND TOWN — Matthew Kaner, known as a partner in Los Feliz's wine bar, Covell, plus beer and wine consultant for various establishments throughout the city, plays guitar (proof over right). What most people don't know about Kaner is that, aside from food and drink, his true passion is music. He explains, "I moved to Los Angeles 4 and a half years ago to pursue music, ironically wine turned out to be what kept me here and has taken me on a journey I never could have expected. Now it's time for me to finally make my record." Kaner's band is called Liquid Love Letter and will release 10 songs in the form of vinyl. Catch them in April at the Hotel Cafe. [EaterWire]

SANTA MONICA— Grub Street notices that Daily Fresh Deli opened yesterday on Ocean Park serving typical grab and go deli fare. Additional menu items to be added in the next few weeks. [Grub Street]

DOWNTOWN— Chef Yuji Isawa has replaced former First & Hope chef Joseph Panarello. In the past Isawa cheffed at Koi and Cafe Stella. [Feast]

[Photo: Kaner at The Knitting Factory. Flickr/xXxBrianxXx]