Jeffrey Menzer

Background

About Jeffrey Menzer

Jeff Menzer holds a WSET Level II & Boston University Mastery of Wine Certification. Jeff is a 30 year veteran of the hospitality industry, starting as a dishwasher in a Wisconsin country club at the age of 14. He worked his way through the back of the house, learning all aspects of the kitchen line. To increase his knowledge of the industry, Jeff decided to try his hand in the front of the house. It was here that he discovered his passion for creating a total guest experience. The symbiotic blend of innovative cuisine, crafted wine and spirits, and transcending service became his career realized. In 1997 Jeff joined the elite opening team of Mistral Bistro, and began his advanced study of libations. It was during this “education” that Jeff experienced fine food and beverage, select rare wine vintages, and spirits of all kinds. After 13 years at Mistral, Jeff worked at several upscale Boston restaurants, including Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse and Red Lantern. In 2013, Jeff transitioned back to the Columbus Restaurant Group and found his new home at a Wine Spectator Award Of Excellence recipient. After 22 years in Boston, Jeff relocated to sunny Phoenix Arizona in 2017 and landed a position as head server at Artizen in the Camby Autograph Collection. In 2019 Jeff left Artizen and became a captain and trainer at Maple and Ash, working alongside Michelin Star Chef Danny Grant and Advanced Sommelier Jason Caballero. In 2020 Jeff accepted the position of Wine Director and "Resident Cork Dork" at the Mick Brasserie, a French Colonial Bistro boasting 50 wines by the glass and 350 wines by the bottle. Since his start at The Mick, Jeff has conceived and launched the first ever "Somm Brawl" a single elimination Sommelier competition, and curates sold out wine events with notable vineyards such as Rombauer, Palmaz, and Far Niente. Jeff has been featured in So Scottsdale Magazine, and A Taste of AZ as one of the Top Five Sommeliers in Phoenix. He most recently sat on a panel for Somm Journal Magazine and will be featured in its July edition.