Vineyard haven
BAPTISTE BEAUMARD • Restaurant Daniel
WORK • Tuesday Routine
BAPTISTE BEAUMARD • sommelier • Restaurant Daniel
Neighborhood you work in: Upper East Side
Neighborhood you live in: East Harlem
It’s Tuesday morning. What’s the scene at your workplace?
As a sommelier at Restaurant Daniel on the Upper East Side, my work is very much in-person and hands-on. By Tuesday afternoon, I arrive at the restaurant around 2p to start preparing for the evening service, which begins at 5. Before guests arrive, there’s a whole world behind the scenes: checking inventory, changing the pages of the wine list for the wines out of stock, organizing the cellar with the new deliveries, or even organizing the pairing wines for the new selection.
What’s on the agenda for today?
This morning, I participated in a blind tasting with a few other sommeliers I’ve been connecting with across the city. We’re building a small but passionate network, exchanging ideas, sharing bottles, and discussing how to elevate the role of the sommelier in New York’s ever-evolving wine scene.
Any restaurant plans today, tonight, this weekend?
Just last night, my girlfriend and I checked out Ha’s Snack Bar, a cozy spot on the Lower East Side. We’re making it our mission to explore as many wine-focused places around the city as possible. Lei in Chinatown is on our radar next. Of course, Chambers in Tribeca is always a go-to. The wine list is incredible, curated with depth and precision, and the food consistently delivers. It’s the kind of place where you can discover something new every time, whether you’re a sommelier or just curious.
How about a little leisure or culture this week?
Wine may be my work, but it’s also my community. This week I’ll swing by La Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels for a casual tasting with friends. It’s always a great place to discover something unexpected, swap stories from service, and stay connected to what’s happening in the New York wine world. I’m also hoping to catch a Yankees game.
What’s a recent big-ticket purchase you love?
My recent big purchase wasn’t a material one, but an experience. I went with some friends to the last 3 Michelin star restaurant, Jungsik. And for sure, I didn’t regret it.
What NYC store or service do you love to recommend?
For any wine enthusiast, whether you’re just getting started or already deep into your journey, I highly recommend Flatiron Wine Store. They have an incredible, well-curated selection and a knowledgeable staff. You can discover wines from every corner of the world, and there’s always something new to try.