Vino Venue is proud to announce that Emily Mendyka, owner, has been inducted into the Atlanta Chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier International (LDEI), a global philanthropic organization of women leaders in food, beverage, and hospitality. Mendyka brings a passion for wine and hospitality, as well as a proven track record as a wine educator.

“It’s an honor to join such a respected community of women,” says Mendyka. “I’m looking forward to meaningful collaboration and giving back to Atlanta through mentorship and education.”

Les Dames d’Escoffier Atlanta, founded in 1996, includes around 150 members and inducts only exceptional women who have made meaningful contributions in culinary arts, hospitality, beverage management, farming, education, or related disciplines. Members support one another and the community through scholarships, events, and philanthropic programs.

Before becoming the owner of Vino Venue, Mendyka managed several high-profile hospitality concepts, including Public House in New York City, Café at Grace Hotel in Sydney, Australia, Barcelona Wine Bar in Atlanta and Fairfield, Connecticut, and the corporate offices of Mellow Mushroom. She also held five roles at Republic National Distributing Company, ultimately overseeing the company’s national airline business. Mendyka holds a WSET Diploma in Wines and is a WSET Certified Educator, with additional certifications in WSET Level 3 Sake and Spirits. Whether she’s helping guests discover their next favorite bottle in Vino Venue’s retail shop or leading one of the venue’s many wine and spirits education classes, Mendyka is driven by a passion to share her knowledge and love of the industry with others.