Today we’d like to introduce you to Lisa Lee.
Lisa, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I have a deep belief that you can always learn something new, change your path and reinvent yourself no matter what point you are at in life. At 35, after 12 years as a professional photographer, I decided I was interested in learning about wine. I have always been a huge believer in hospitality and how it can create memorable experiences when executed well. To me, the table is a connector; bringing people together over a thoughtfully curated meal and sharing a bottle of wine is sacred.
After watching the SOMM, a 2012 American documentary following the attempts of four candidates to pass the extremely difficult Master Sommelier examination, I decided wine was something I wanted to pursue. The following week, I signed up for the WSET Level One Award in Wines course. Once enrolled, I realized how much I loved learning about wine and knew that I wanted to pave a career path in the industry. I completed two more Levels with the WSET, gaining a Level Two with Distinction and a Level Three with Merit. From there, it was time for me to start looking for somewhere to work.
With no one hiring a sommelier on staff and limited options for someone who was just starting out in Myrtle Beach, I started developing a concept for an upscale wine bar. Growing up in Northern Virginia, there was no shortage of wine bars, but to my surprise, there was a void in the market in Myrtle Beach. After a year and a half of business planning and meeting with potential investors, I decided to partner with my friend and neighbor, Chef Jamie Daskalis. Fast forward 15 months, and The Tasting Room on 9th opened its doors.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I don’t know if anyone starting a new business has a completely smooth road, but it hasn’t been ultra rough for me either. I’ve been fortunate to have some amazing people as mentors throughout this process. The biggest struggles for me were personal. You learn a lot about yourself and your relationships when building a business you’re passionate about.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
– Please tell us more about your business or organization.
I’m a dreamer, and I have big plans for this little neighborhood wine bar. I’ve never had a lack of ideas or vision; it’s all about finding a team that is best-suited to help facilitate the plan. The next four years are going to show a lot of growth, not only for the business but also for the downtown Myrtle Beach area. I’m excited to be a part of this change and help shape the future of The Art and Innovation District.
– What do you do, what do you specialize in / what are you known for?
We are known for a few different things:
First, we are an upscale wine bar and cocktail lounge.
Second, our charcuterie boards are stunning. We do it better than anyone else in the area, no questions asked.
Third and most important, The Tasting Menu Series. It’s a monthly exclusive dining experience in the heart of downtown. The table is set, food prepared and wine is paired with intention. All the details, none of the pretentiousness. Alongside Michelin-starred Chef Robert Kaufman, we deliver a one-of-a-kind evening with detailed precision. Using the table as a connector, diners are invited to join one another on a culinary journey downtown. With experience, knowledge and a little whimsy, we come together to curate hospitality as it should be experienced. Our Tasting Menu Series is like nowhere else. Like no one else.
– What sets you apart from others?
Our philosophy and how we approach hospitality separate us from everyone else. At the heart of everything we do, we have the guest’s experience in mind. We never take for granted those who choose to spend their time with us.
– What are you most proud brand wise?
I am most proud that our brand is setting a standard for the culinary scene in Myrtle Beach. We are innovative and care about the details. This is apparent in everything we do, especially in The Tasting Menu Series dinners.
– What do you want our readers to know about your brand, offerings, services, etc?
I want people to know that we genuinely care about our guests and how they feel from the time they walk through our doors until the time they leave. This brand was created with extreme thought and care. Our passion is creating memorable experiences. We hope that when guests spend time with us, they feel as though it was time well spent.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up, I played soccer, which kept me insanely busy. I have always loved going out to eat, and when we traveled for tournaments, I was able to experience various types of cuisines and restaurants in many different cities. I fell in love with beautiful plating and spaces that made me feel good. This was something I always tried to replicate for others, whether by planning an experience or wrapping a present with the most beautiful ribbon. Presentation has always mattered to me, even before I realized it did.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ttron9th.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetastingroomon9th/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheTastingRoomOn9th
