Michael’s love for food goes back to when he was just out of high school managing a regional pizza delivery store in his hometown of Riverside, CA. In 1991, he moved to Napa where he bussed tables and then bartended at Silverado Country Club. In 1993, his love for food and wine became a passion when he was a server at The Restaurant at Domaine Chandon. There he learned more about wine and how the flavors would interact with food. He quickly grew through the ranks to become the Assistant Restaurant Manager. He then took an opportunity at Napa Valley Grille in Yountville to manage their 500 selection wine program.

Michael’s knowledge of food and wine continued to grow, as did his ability to manage a massive wine program. Through his efforts, his program gained the coveted “Best of Award of Excellence” from the Wine Spectator. A few years later, he was offered a position running the restaurant at Auberge du Soliel in Rutherford. There he honed his skills further by working in a hotel environment. After a quick period of time, Napa Valley Grille brought him back to Yountville as General Manager.

After a few years, Michael was ready for a change of life, and accepted a position with Young’s Market Company as their Napa Valley Restaurant sales rep. He grew his knowledge of not only wine, but spirits as well, while all the time creating relationships with many different restaurants in the Valley. After well over a decade of sales, Michael went back to managing restaurants, which is what he truly loved. So, in 2015, he took a job as General Manager of ZuZu Spanish restaurant in downtown Napa. He learned all about the Spanish culture and further expanded his knowledge of wines past California. He is happy and proud to bring all of that knowledge and passion to the team at Market in St. Helena where he lives with his family!