FIU STUDENT ACCEPTS INTERNSHIP AT ETOILE RESTAURANT

Barchi wins coveted spot in Michelin-star kitchen in the esteemed Napa Valley
Photo id left to right:
Chef Perry Hoffman,
FIU School of Hospitality Interim Dean Joan Remington, Alex Lipkin, Laura Manon and Rodney Barchi.
Provided by Lisa Palley
YOUNTVILLE, Calif. – Etoile Restaurant, the Michelin-starred restaurant at Domaine Chandon, announces its first internship. Florida International University (FIU) School of Hospitality student Rodney Barchi was selected from several candidates to spend three months learning at Domaine Chandon, located in the heart of the Napa Valley.

Chef Perry Hoffman of the Etoile kitchen at Domaine Chandon met the candidates in February at the FIU School of Hospitality annual fund-raiser, Food Network South Beach Wine Food Festival. Barchi impressed Chef Hoffman with his determination, business acumen and keen interest in food and wine. Rodney will make his first trip to Napa Valley to work alongside Chef Hoffman to learn the operations of the kitchen and the winery.
Twenty-eight year old Barchi, who has already earned a BA in business also from FIU decided to return to school to earn a BA in Hospitality Management, is the former owner of Truly Scrumptious, a bakery in South Florida. “I am very grateful to be chosen. Every day I think about it, and the more excited I get. I can’t wait to go,” says Barchi. “To have this incredible opportunity to experience hands-on training and to learn how a kitchen operates at one of the country’s best restaurants for pairing food and wine in the beautiful Napa Valley, is unbelievable. This internship is definitely a highlight of my year.”
ABOUT ETOILE
As the only fine dining restaurant within a winery in Napa Valley, Etoile offers the ultimate wine and food experience with innovative cuisine paired with award-winning wines and sophisticated surroundings.
About Domaine Chandon
A leader in viticulture as well as winemaking, Domaine Chandon is at the forefront of sustainable farming practices and continues to replenish, control, and in many cases restore the natural habitat. Domaine Chandon was selected “Winery of the Year 2005” by the California Tourism Association.