Our Team
Sam Mumford
Executive Chef
At just 28 years old, Chef Sam Mumford has already carved out a reputation as one of Los Angeles’ most exciting young culinary voices. Blending Michelin-starred precision with soulful storytelling on the plate. Recognized by San Pelligrino as one of the “Top Young Chefs Under 30”, Mumford brings to Nerano Beverly Hills a bold, ingredient-driven philosophy rooted in seasonality, sustainability and authenticity.
Raised in the small farming town of Lynden, Washington, Mumford grew up surrounded by orchards, fields and fresh markets. His earliest lessons in food came at home, where his parents’ passion for cooking taught him the power of a meal to bring people together. By 18, a first in a restaurant kitchen ignited a drive that would carry him from dishwasher to sous chef in less than two years.
Mumford’s culinary journey has been defined by both discipline and daring. With Joey Restaurant Group, he rose quickly through the ranks, helping launch new locations in Manhattan Beach and Downtown LA while sharpening his leadership skills. A finalist in San Pellegrino Young Chef competition in New York, he set his sights on fine dining, pursuing roles at some of Los Angeles’ most acclaimed restaurants. At Pasta Bar, he played a key role in executing a 12-course tasting menu that retained its Michelin star in 2023. At Gwen Butcher Shop & Restaurant, he honed his craft in butchery and operations before stepping into a leadership role at Koast in West Hollywood, where he worked alongside Chef Kevin Meehan to develop seasonal menus that celebrated bold Pacific flavors and sustainability.
Now at Nerano, Mumford is reimagining Italian-inspired cuisine through the lens of California’s seasonal bounty. His menus strike a balance between elegance and warmth - handmade pastas bright with herbs and olive oil, fire-kissed meats sourced from trusted purveyors, and coastal flavors that honor the farmers and fisherman behind every ingredient. Drawing inspiration from his Italian heritage, he often finds magic in simplicity. Whether in a perfectly prepared handmade pasta or a market-driven feature that showcases the day’s best produce.
Loris Jones-Randolph
Wine Director & Events Coordinator
Loris Jones-Randolph is an accomplished sommelier, wine educator, writer and hospitality professional bringing deep passion, expertise and creativity to her role as Wine Director & Event Coordinator at Nerano.
A court of Master Sommeliers-certified sommelier, Loris has built her career helping people connect with wine in meaningful and memorable ways. She has worked in some of the finest restaurants in both New York and Los Angeles and has held leadership roles in beverage programs at celebrated establishments across the country.
Her voice extends beyond service - Loris is also a respected wine writer and stroyteller whose work has appeared in Somm Journal, New Wine Review, American Wine Society Journal, VinoHead and more. She publishes original reviews and educational content on her own platform, BoozyBushwick.com, where she blends expert insight with approachable tasting perspectives for wine lovers of all levels.
Dedicated to expanding wine knowledge and enthusiasm in every setting, Loris also hosts the Wine Fairy Podcast, where she demystifies wine language and concepts to empower curious drinkers. Her approachable, engaging style has made her a trusted voice in wine education and events.
At Nerano, Loris curates thoughtfully crafted wine experiences that celebrate both Italian terrior and California’s dynamic wine scene, while designing and coordinating events that elevate every occasion - from intimate tastings to full-scale celebrations.
Whether guiding guests through a perfect pairing or leading a vibrant wine-centric event, Loris bring warmth, expertise and a unique ability to make wine accessible and exciting for all.