As Senior Sommelier at Aria, Remy Loet brings heart and hospitality to everything he does. A first-generation Cambodian-American, Loet says his background really shapes how he approaches hospitality. “Gratitude, generosity and creating a sense of belonging are at the core of everything I do.”
That sense of belonging is one he finds through exploring wine with other wine professionals in possibly atypical ways. “One memory I love is a late-night gathering—amazing Champagne and wines being opened, paired with something as simple as fried chicken and fast food. It was one of those moments where everything just clicked—a sense of belonging, of being around people who see and feel things the same way you do.”
Remy has brought that joy for wine to work at Aria every day since he joined the restaurant in 2022. “One of the most meaningful parts of working at a place like Aria is being part of people’s most important moments—celebrations like anniversaries and birthdays, but also more intimate or difficult occasions. It’s an honor that guests choose to spend those moments with us. Our role is in the details—making sure every element exceeds expectations and contributes to something memorable.”
Before arriving at Aria, Remy spent the last decade building his hospitality career in Denver, Colo.; Portland, Ore. and Chattanooga, working in some of the top restaurants in each city. He has earned a Level 3 WSET certification, but he says the most meaningful training he has received comes from staying insatiably curious. He uses that curiosity to connect with Aria’s guests, carefully listening so that he can make insightful recommendations.
“Wine is something that has to be experienced—through taste, smell, sight and personal connection,” he says. “I’ve held sommelier positions for the past decade, and that hands-on experience has been invaluable to my development.”
He credits mentors such as Andres Loaiza at Aria as being instrumental in his growth. “I’m grateful to have someone I can constantly learn from and bounce ideas off of.”
He also counts himself fortunate to be a part of the Atlanta wine community. “What I appreciate most is that it’s not exclusive. There’s a wide range of people, backgrounds, and perspectives, and everyone is encouraged to be part of it. Always happy to be invited to so many events and be in the room.” He credits his peers, such as Christopher McLloyd of Tower Wine & Spirits and Sommelier Jordan Parker, as people who help him grow. “We challenge each other, share perspectives and continue pushing one another forward.”
Remy shares his love of learning about wine with Aria’s front-of-house staff, who he trains and helps to deepen their understanding of wine and service. He fosters a culture of learning and mentorship that reflects the supportive environment cultivated by Aria’s leadership team.
In the future, he hopes to maybe take his experience to the next level by opening his own space. “Something that reflects my approach to hospitality, wine and community,” he says, adding, “I want to continue teaching, mentoring and sharing wine and experiences whenever I can.”
For now, his sincerity, his expert pairings and his approachable style will continue to put Aria’s guests at ease. His passion, professionalism and presence will continue to make a lasting impact on colleagues and guests alike, like a true Rising Star.
Read More About the Other 2026 Rising Stars
Michaela Finlayson
Frank Fodor
Austin Goetzman
Sebastián Montero-Hernández
Alexandria Rogers
Richard Wilson
Thank you to our presenting sponsor, Georgia Natural Gas, and table sponsors, Society Insurance and Savannah Distributing, for making this event possible:
Presenting Sponsor
Table Sponsors
Savannah Distributing and Society Insurance
