Wine Not?

One of the key figures behind New York's Michelin-starred restaurants Atomix, Atoboy, and Naro is Jhonel Faelnar, a Filipino sommelier who admits his passion for wine came as a pleasant surprise

- Maritess Garcia Reyes

Filipino-born Jhonel Faelnar had never imagined a career in the food and beverage industry, let alone achieving recognition in such a competitive field. In 2023, he was named as Wine Enthusiast's Sommelier/Wine Director of the Year, surpassing four other esteemed nominees in the United States. That same year, the wine lists he curated for Atoboy, Atomix and Naro-all of which are Michelin-starred restaurants where he serves as beverage director-were recognised by The World of Fine Wine magazine as the best in North America in their respective categories. "It was incredibly special to share that achievement with my team," the young sommelier reflects.

Faelnar joined the Atomix team in 2018, just in time for its opening and took charge of its beverage programme as well that of its sister restaurant, Atoboy. Since then, Atomix has earned two Michelin stars and is currently ranked No. 6 on the World's 50 Best Restaurants List. "It's been a true joy to have contributed to the success of the restaurant and the group. The joy of a perfect service cannot be understated. It's electric," Faelnar declares.

On top of these achievements, he was also honoured as the International Culinary CenterOutstanding Sommelier Alumnus (2017), Wine & Spirits Best New Sommelier (2018), StarChefs Rising Star Sommelier (2020) and Wine Enthusiast 40 under 40 (2020).