Thomas Keller

Our Team

Thomas Keller Chef / Proprietor
Sandra Bohlsen General Manager
Chad Palagi Chef de Cuisine
Elaine Smyth Pastry Chef
Michel Couvreux Beverage Director
John Jansma Head Sommelier
John Jansma

John Jansma

Head Sommelier

As Head Sommelier, John Jansma leads our wine program with a focus on developing an exceptional selection in tandem with Director of Beverage Michel Couvreux and enhancing the guest experience.

John joined Per Se in 2021, quickly making a mark with his dedication to wine education, guest relations and leadership. His career includes previous roles as Beverage Director at The Ram’s Head Inn, General Manager at Restaurant Serenade, Wine Director at Natirar Resort and Ninety Acres Restaurant, and Sommelier at the Michelin-starred Del Posto. He also holds an Advanced Sommelier Certification from The Court of Master Sommeliers.

John’s career highlights include receiving the Walter Clore Scholarship Award from The Court of Master Sommeliers, and his wine programs have been featured in Wine Enthusiast’s Top 100 Wine Programs.

His interest in hospitality was ignited by his family’s encouragement. Initially aspiring to be a chef, he found fulfillment in service after transitioning from washing dishes to waiting tables. This new path led him to a rewarding career in hospitality, where he takes pleasure in sharing the rich history and culture embedded in each bottle of wine.

John looks forward to building on the legacy of Hak Soo Kim, Michel Couvreux and countless others and sharing the invaluable mentorship he has received from those who have helped shape his career.