In the future (a bit of a way off) I would like to open a fine dining establishment. And what I would like to know is if a Sommelier is really that beneficial. I know that some restaurants have them and some don't. I would just assume that as the Exec. Chef I would have all the food & wine knowledge needed. Along with the General Manager, of course. Going through school and working I am keeping a logbook (if you wil) of any recipes I come up with. So my next course of action is to try and successfuly pair the food with wine. I just don't know if a seperate person should do this. I mean, wouldn't a customer just order what they want? And how often do customers ask for the services of a wine steward?