529 Wellington MANAGEMENT

Jim Armstrong - Managing Partner

Jim began his career in restaurant management at the Keg in 1979 and it was at that time that he began his working relation with WOW!'s President, Doug Stephen. Jim then worked with Doug as Managing Partner at Cibo's and Pizza Ristorante. In 1990, the two went on to open and manage Bridgeport Restaurant and Stephen & Andrews Food Shoppe in the Forks Market. Jim left the "fold" for a time before returning to partner with Doug and Janet Cunningham in WOW! Hospitality. Together, they developed and opened five new restaurant concepts, including Pasta la Vista and Breadworks, where Jim currently focuses his vast expertise. Jim is the "Martha Stewart" of our organization and never fails to WOW! his guests, staff and co-workers with his talents. He and Karen love spending time with their children and enjoy fine food and wine.

Michael Dacquisto - Executive Chef

Mike began his career at the Carlton Club in 1985. Since that time, he has worked in the kitchens of Minaki Lodge, Sheraton Hotel, Sandpiper Restaurant and Between Friends. Since joining WOW! as Executive Chef, Mike has designed and created menus as well has been responsible for overseeing production, staffing and preparation in the kitchens of Pasta la Vista, Green Gates, Breadworks, Muddy Waters Smokehouse, Finn McCue's and 529 Wellington. He is a huge asset to our organization and as well, is a respected and renowned Chef in Winnipeg. Mike has attained local and national recognition and has contributed greatly to the success of our restaurants. When not swinging a spatula, he may be found on the links swinging a club and enjoying his other passion, golf.

Christopher Sprague - Sommelier

Christopher has taken his passion in life and made it his career, with Sommelier certification through the International Sommelier Guild. He purchases and oversees the inventory of 600 plus selections, as well as contributes to the compilation of 529's award-winning wine list. (Wine Spectator Magazine - 2002, 2003) Christopher began his career as a chef at Le Beaujolais, but then made the leap from food to wine at the Chef's Table. From there he went off to hone his craft at Toronto's Jump and The Windsor Arms Hotel. Christopher is a well respected part of the 529 team and an integral member of the wine community in Canada.