Kevin Meehan

Originally from Long Island, New York, Kevin Meehan got his first taste of the restaurant industry as a teenager working at a local fried chicken joint before studying Culinary Arts at Johnson & Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island. Early experiences included an apprenticeship at the Michelin-starred L'Alban Chambon in Brussels, Belgium, and a two-year stint at Mirabelle in Long Island.

In 2000, Meehan moved to Los Angeles, where he honed his skills in renowned kitchens like L’Orangerie (under Ludo Lefebvre), Bastide, and Patina. In 2013, he launched Kali Dining, an underground supper club and private catering venture that evolved into Kali Restaurant in 2016, co-founded with sommelier Drew Langley. Kali, which quickly gained a Michelin star, showcases Meehan’s minimalist, ingredient-driven approach to modern Californian cuisine, emphasizing local, sustainable, and biodynamic ingredients.

In 2025, Meehan expanded his culinary footprint with KŌAST Melrose, located just steps from Kali on Los Angeles’ Michelin Mile. Designed as a more casual, seafood-focused counterpart to Kali, KŌAST highlights sustainably sourced seafood, refined coastal flavors, and an extensive by-the-glass wine program curated by Langley. With a menu featuring Lobster Baked Manicotti, Grilled Long Island Striped Bass, and Seasonal Seafood Chowder, KŌAST reflects Meehan’s passion for simple, high-quality ingredients and his love for East Coast seafood traditions.

“My passion for seafood comes from cherished memories of fishing weekends and family dinners,” Meehan says. “With KŌAST, we wanted to create a casual, welcoming space where guests can enjoy incredible seafood, an ambitious wine list, and a fun atmosphere.”

Beyond the kitchen, Meehan is an avid golfer and a dedicated Chelsea Football Club fan, often catching English Premier League matches when he’s not overseeing his restaurants.