Our Staff
OWNER
Emily Mendyka
Emily brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to her role as owner. Emily managed several high-profile concepts, including
Public House in NYC, Café at Grace Hotel in Sydney, Australia, Barcelona Wine Bar in Fairfield, CT, and Mellow Mushroom corporate offices. At Republic National Distributing Company she held five positions, culminating in managing the company’s national airline business.
Credentials
WSET Diploma in Wines, WSET Certified Educator, WSET Level 3 Sake & Spirits
Executive Chef
Patric Good
Chef Patric graduated with Highest Honors from The Art Institute Of Atlanta’s School Of Culinary Arts. He has worked all levels of foodservice in his career, from fast food to Jewish delis to fine dining including the West Egg Café and The Barrelhouse. Chef Patric was also named “Best Local Chef” by GA Voice readers in 2015.
Director of Education
Lizette Leanza
Lizette was born and raised in New Orleans by Argentine/Italian and Cuban/Spanish parents, Lizette’s passion for wine and food is a direct result of her multi-cultural upbringing. Following a successful career as a cpa, Lizette launched a food and wine blog, Gourmet Uncorked.
Credentials
Certified Specialist of Wine, Certified Specialist of Spirits, Wine and Spirits Educational Trust Level III (With Distinction), Wine and Spirits Educational Trust Level II (With Distinction)
Beverage Director
Rob Van Leer
Rob joined Vino Venue with over 20 years of restaurant experience. His role as Beverage Director and Partner of Vino Venue includes retail wine sales, wine club, virtual wine tastings and restaurant beverage program. Rob is a member of the Guild of Sommeliers and has visited many wine regions; both USA and international.
Credentials:
Certified Sommelier, Certified Specialist of Wine, Wine & Spirits Education Trust Level III (with distinction), BarSmarts Advanced Certificate
Travel Planner
Lelia Bryan
Lelia and Michael started Vino Venue in 2012. In 2024, she sold the business. But she continues to be involved by managing tours for the company, a role she has held over 18 years. She worked in advertising and marketing for Ritz-Carlton, Travel Channel, Weather Channel and United Healthcare. She is a member of Les Dames d’Escoffier and holds a Level 2 certification from WSET. She is a graduate of Vanderbilt University.