Union Square Hospitality Group Appoints Master Sommelier Vincent Morrow to Oversee Wine Programs

Union Square Hospitality Group (USHG) has appointed Master Sommelier Vincent Morrow as the new wine and beverage director for all of its restaurants. Morrow brings a wealth of experience, having previously worked at top establishments on the West Coast, including Grand Award winners like Restaurant Gary Danko and The French Laundry. His most recent role was at Press Restaurant in Napa Valley, where he played a significant part in the restaurant earning its first Grand Award in 2022, focusing on a wine list primarily highlighting Napa Valley wines.

Morrow has long regarded USHG as a benchmark in the hospitality industry. He expressed a transformative enthusiasm for the opportunity, admitting that he reconsidered earlier decisions about his career path after learning about the position. As the wine and beverage director, Morrow will oversee beverage programs at some of New York City’s notable restaurants, including The Modern and Gramercy Tavern.

In addition to Morrow’s appointment, USHG has made several adjustments to its wine management teams across its venues. Lucian Froz has taken the wine director position at Ci Siamo, while Sydney Fusto now has the same role at Manhatta. Dorian Gonzalez Vega has transitioned from Gramercy Tavern to lead wine initiatives at Union Square Cafe. Morrow is also preparing for the opening of a new Ci Siamo in Boston later this year.

In Seattle, Grand Award winner Canlis has announced James Huffman as its new executive chef. Huffman, who has been with the restaurant for nine years, was chosen following a global search that began in February. This marks a significant milestone as he becomes the first Seattle native to lead the kitchen since Canlis opened in 1950. Previously serving as executive sous chef under Aisha Ibrahim, Huffman had been managing the kitchen in the interim.

Owner Mark Canlis indicated that the decision to promote from within stemmed from the strength of the kitchen and the desire to cultivate local talent.

A16, known for its Southern Italian-inspired cuisine, has opened a new location in Napa Valley. Founded by Shelley Lindgren and Kitty Oestlien, the new venue aims to showcase Neapolitan-style pizzas and live-fire cooking. Chef Yosuke Machida from A16 Tokyo will lead the kitchen, creating dishes that utilize locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant features a wide-ranging wine list that includes both Italian and Californian selections.

After 32 years of operation, One Market Restaurant in San Francisco has closed, with co-founder Michael Dellar referring to the closure more as a retirement than a shuttering. Opened in 1993, the restaurant was known for its commitment to fresh, seasonal food and exceptional wine service. Dellar cited a combination of personal factors and the challenges facing restaurants in the post-pandemic era as driving forces behind the decision. The restaurant will work on finding a new home for its wine inventory, which has been a hallmark of its legacy.

For more information on these stories, visit:

• Union Square Hospitality Group
• Canlis
• A16
• One Market

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!