The Musket Room, a Michelin-starred gem in New York City, has announced a groundbreaking addition to its team. Wine Director Stella Martindale and Group Beverage Director Kimberly Cavoores are now leading the charge in reshaping the wine and beverage programs at both Musket Room and its sister establishments under Elizabeth Street Hospitality, including Raf’s and the soon-to-open Cafe Zaffri at The Twenty Two Hotel in Union Square.
This all-female leadership team joins the Musket Room’s already trailblazing management, which boasts the distinction of being the only Michelin-starred restaurant in the U.S. with female leaders across its owner, executive chef, pastry chef, wine director, and beverage director positions.
Meet the New Wine Team
Stella Martindale – Wine Director, Musket Room
With a career spanning from Washington State to New York City, Stella Martindale brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to Musket Room. Her journey began as a Tasting Room Associate at Sulei Cellars in Walla Walla, Washington, before moving to New York, where she honed her craft at celebrated establishments including Babbo Ristorante e Enoteca, Gramercy Tavern, The Mark by Jean-Georges, Maialino, and Crown Shy.
At Musket Room, Stella’s vision is clear: to make the wine list approachable while maintaining and expanding the restaurant’s renowned Champagne program. With her expertise, guests can expect a dynamic and inclusive wine experience tailored to both connoisseurs and newcomers.
Kimberly Cavoores – Beverage Director, Elizabeth Street Hospitality
Kimberly Cavoores will oversee the beverage programs across the hospitality group, including Musket Room, Raf’s, and the forthcoming Cafe Zaffri. A Boston University graduate, Kimberly started her career with James Beard Award-winning chefs Jamie Bissonnette and Ken Oringer at Toro before moving to New York City. There, she worked as a sommelier at esteemed venues like Terroir Wine Bar, Hearth, and Café d’Alsace.
Her career also spans international markets, from Australia to Napa Valley and Washington State, giving her a global perspective on wine. Kimberly later returned to New York as a wine director at Marta and a sommelier at Blue Hill at Stone Barns, where she developed a deep passion for regenerative agriculture. Before joining Elizabeth Street Hospitality, Kimberly opened her own boutique wine and spirits shop, One Kourt Studio, in Greenport, NY.
A Commitment to Excellence
With Stella and Kimberly at the helm, Elizabeth Street Hospitality’s wine and beverage programs are set to embody innovation, approachability, and sustainability. The Musket Room’s updated wine list, curated by Stella, reflects her dedication to creating an experience that resonates with both wine aficionados and casual diners alike.
This addition underscores the group’s commitment to fostering diversity and excellence in leadership while redefining the standards of hospitality.
