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Readers' Choice, Best Executive Chef: Jason Knibb; Best Sommelier: Chris Russo We'd have to check the archives, but it seems that Nine-Ten's Executive Chef Jason Knibb and Sommelier Chris Russo have been readers' favorites for as long as we can remember. Training under such greats as Wolfgang Puck and Roy Yamaguchi in his early years, Knibb helped steer Nine- Ten to receive a "Plate Distinction" in the premiere California Michelin Guide in 2019, an honor that was renewed in 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024. Equally accomplished is the restaurant's Wine Director & Sommelier Chris Russo, who received the top score on his Introductory Sommelier exam in a class of more than 100 testers, and became a Certified Sommelier only six months later. Today, Russo serves as a mentor by sharing his knowledge of food and wine with co-workers and guests alike. nine-ten.com PEOPLE & PHILANTHROPY Philanthropist Irwin & Joan Jacobs Darlene Shiley Bartender Luis Tovar Zarate Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa Rob McShea Grind and Prosper Hospitality Maitre D Marko Dedic Mille Fleurs Hadrien Paquet Bistro du Marché Sommelier Chris Russo Nine-Ten Charlotte Randolph Winner, Michelin Guide 2021 Sommelier Award ranchandcoast.com 100 OCTOBER 2024 RANCH & COAST MAGAZINE