Miriam Matasar’s career in wine and hospitality is marked by diverse opportunities and a genuine love for creating memorable experiences for people. Miriam holds a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Iowa, as well as a Masters Degree in Social Work from Tulane University, a true reflection of her passion for helping others and the community through her professional and personal endeavors.

Miriam’s foray into the world of wine began at Lula Cafe in Chicago. It was during this time that Jason Hammel, the owner and Chef at Lula, presented her with a copy of “Setting the Table,” which ignited her passion for hospitality and redirected her career path.

In 2013, she relocated to New Orleans. Miriam’s diverse roles during this time included operations management, dabbling in clothing retail, and a thrilling year as the wine room manager at Bacchanal, a vibrant hub of wine, music, and gastronomy.

After meeting her husband and co-owner of Really Really Nice Wines, Darrin Ylisto, the pair continued their journey in Austin, Texas, where Miriam re-entered wine sales with Victory, a fine wine distributor. In 2017, the pair moved back to New Orleans where Miriam took on a sales manager role at Wines Unlimited.

In 2022, Miriam and Darrin got wind that their neighborhood wine bar on New Orleans’ famous Magazine Street was for sale. By summer 2023, they opened Really Really Nice Wines, a neighborhood wine shop and bar focused on natural wines and a welcoming vibe for the community – a place that they would want to hang out.