Erick Cadena

For Erick Cadena, a great bottle opens the conversation. Hospitality is what keeps it going…

A Paso Robles native with a big personality and an instinct for bringing people together, Erick has spent more than 25 years making wine feel less intimidating and dining feel more personal. His signature is a combination of serious wine knowledge, contagious energy, and the kind of welcome that makes a first visit feel like a homecoming.

Erick spent ten years as General Manager of Villa Creek, a celebrated Paso Robles restaurant and winery, building his career in the wine community that raised him. He began his formal studies through the Wine & Spirit Education Trust before his friend and colleague, Master Sommelier Anthony Anselmi, encouraged him to pursue the Court of Master Sommeliers. He earned his sommelier certification through the Court in 2009, complementing his studies with extensive travels through wine regions abroad.

He brought that Paso Robles spirit to San Francisco’s iconic Boulevard Restaurant, joining John Lancaster as the sommelier team for a decade of exceptional wine and service. From there, he became Hospitality & Wine Director at Villa Taverna, one of the city’s premier, and bespoke private clubs

Today, as General Manager and Partner at Hurrica Restaurant, Erick brings that experience to life on the waterfront at Westpoint Harbor. On the floor, his enthusiasm sets the tone. At the table, he can turn an unfamiliar label into someone’s new favorite wine. With his team, he champions a culture of confidence, generosity, and pride in the details, because memorable hospitality starts with people who care, and are authentic!

Erick’s philosophy is simple: know your craft, read the room, and give people something to come back for. And while he loves the history, geography, and stories behind every bottle, he’s always ready to bring wine back down to earth…

“At the end of the day, it’s just spoiled grape juice!”