Jan Van Heesvelde

Beverage Director, MS

Jan Van Heesvelde is the Beverage Director at The Modern. Born and raised in Belgium, Jan discovered his passion for wine while studying at Ter Groene Poorte, one of the country’s leading hospitality schools. Eager to further his education, Jan spent the following years traveling extensively through renowned wine regions while building his career in some of Europe’s most respected dining rooms.  

In 2018, he moved to London to join HIDE as a Junior Sommelier, quickly rising through the ranks before becoming Assistant-Head Sommelier at Simon Rogan’s three-Michelin starred l’Enclume. There, he developed expertise in food and wine pairings, team leadership, and delivering exceptional guest experiences. In 2021, Jan joined The Ledbury, a three-Michelin starred restaurant in Notting Hill as Head Sommelier, working under his mentor Brett Graham. In 2025, he moved to La Trompette under the same title. 

Jan received his Advanced Sommelier certification in 2020 and was awarded the prestigious Master Sommelier Diploma from the Court of Master Sommeliers in 2025. 

Shortly after receiving his diploma, Jan moved to New York City to become Beverage Director at The Modern. Overseeing one of the largest wine cellars in the city, he brings a refined, global perspective to the restaurant’s beverage program, highlighting exceptional value through both classic regions and lesser-known producers. His selections are designed to complement Executive Chef Thomas Allan’s refined tasting menus in the Dining Room and the more seasonal, a la carte offerings of the Bar Room.