Page 8 - element Modern Mediterranean Grill E-News Magazine April 2019

Sarasota’s “Somm Mom”
Mani Gonzalez, element General Manager & Sommelier
Mani brings to us more than fifteen years of hospitality industry experience and wine knowledge in her dual role as a restaurant manager and Level II Sommelier. She established a strong background as a bartender, front and back of the house manager in Florida, eventually traveling to New York City and Napa, California to sharpen her skills.
When asked what industry certifica- tions she holds, she humbly responds, “I’m a Certified Sommelier through
the Court of Master Sommeliers, and certified as a Sake Advisor through the Sake School of America. I have also completed Level II Wine & Spirits certification through the Wine & Spirits Education Trust, and I am a Level I Cicerone, certified beer server.”
Mani will tell you that she is an avid learner, and a believer in all types of education - formal, on-the-job, and self taught. She truly loves wine, beer and all other spirits, and shares that love with her restaurant guests and staff. In addition to all the daily duties of a busy
restaurant general manager, Mani is the curator of the award-winning wine programs in element as well as that of our sister restaurant, Duval’s.
She moved to Sarasota in October, 2018, and immediately embraced the lifestyle and the community. When Mani’s not working, she likes to spend time with the lights of her life - her husband and 2-year old daughter.
Mani Gonzalez ManiG@elementsrq.com