Christian Navarro '19 Contributor Since 2019

Born in Mexico City and raised in Palm Springs, California, Christian Navarro grew up fully exposed to the world of food and entertainment through his mother, who was a hotel and restaurant consultant. Navarro moved to Los Angeles at nineteen to pursue a career as an artist, and took a job to pay the bills at a local wine shop sweeping the floors and helping the owner clean. It was then that he developed a passion for wine tasting and began building his reputation in the industry as being one of Los Angeles’ most knowledgeable experts. His reputation caught the attention of Wally’s founder Steve Wallace, who took Navarro under his wing. Together they traveled the world, meeting renowned figures, tasting glorious old wines, discovering delicious foods and grew Wally’s into a globally recognized wine retailer.

Named “The Wine Therapist to the Stars” by The New York Times, Christian Navarro’s clients include many of the most powerful players in the financial, political, art, and entertainment world. When Hollywood trendsetters and power brokers want to know what wines to collect, give as gifts, or serve with dinner, Navarro is the man they call.

In addition to food and wine, Navarro’s other interests include art, travel, and cooking–he is an accomplished cook, having worked in the kitchens of many of the country’s top chefs. He also believes in giving back. Navarro is on the Board of Directors for Food on Foot, a volunteer-based, non-profit organization providing the poor and homeless of Los Angeles with nutritious meals, clothing, and assistance in the transition to employment and life off the streets.