New Leadership for Charlie Palmer's Italian Concept AperiBar at LUMA Hotel Times Square has appointed Angelika Riedler Pereira as general manager, reinforcing the restaurant's women-led operational structure. Pereira brings more than 13 years of fine dining and luxury hospitality experience across Germany and the United States.

Background and Experience Most recently, Pereira served as restaurant manager and sommelier at Restaurant Avena on Manhattan's Upper East Side, where she led front-of-house operations. She previously worked as captain at Aureole, Charlie Palmer's Michelin-starred restaurant, marking a return to the Charlie Palmer Collective. Her career includes leadership and sommelier roles at Gunter Seeger NY, Atelier at Hotel Bayerischer Hof, EssZimmer by Bobby Bräuer, and Restaurant Pageou. She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration, WSET Level 3 Award in Sake, and Certified Sommelier Level 3 from IHK Munich. The Sommelier Union Germany recognized her as a Sommelier College honoree and regional spokeswoman.

Role and Vision As general manager, Pereira will oversee day-to-day operations, guest relations, team development, and service standards. The restaurant emphasizes her track record developing women in hospitality leadership. "I am honored to join the talented team at AperiBar, return to the Charlie Palmer family, and work alongside my dear friend Chef Vasiliki Vouliotaki," said Pereira. "Hospitality means creating meaningful moments and genuine connections with guests. I want to build on what this team has already created, especially as part of a leadership group led by women, and keep delivering memorable experiences for everyone who walks through our doors."

Why It Matters

For Times Square operators and the broader fine dining sector, this appointment signals continued investment in hospitality talent and women-led management structures at established restaurant groups. AperiBar's emphasis on operational excellence and mentorship-driven leadership offers a model increasingly valued in competitive Manhattan markets.

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Written by FBM Publications Editors