Rita and her husband André Jammet owned and operated the iconic New York French restaurant La Caravelle.

The New York Times described La Caravelle as a “French Legend and a Paris in Manhattan experience to food enthusiasts and the A-list of American society.” Rita oversaw all aspects of this restaurant’s business management, legal, financial, marketing and public relations, many of the operational details that made La Caravelle excel. As all working mothers, Rita learned to juggle successfully her family and professional duties.

After closing La Caravelle restaurant in 2004, and pursuing her passion for Champagne, Rita started to market and distribute La Caravelle Champagne and Bordeaux, available in a growing number of distinguished New York (and other States) hospitality, restaurant and retail establishments. An avid Champagne lover, Rita promotes not only her La Caravelle Champagne but the Champagne region and wines in general. Capitalizing on her 25+ years of hospitality experience and her extensive network of colleagues that include chefs and restaurateurs worldwide, Rita formed Bouquet Ventures Hospitality Consulting in 2004, undertaking various industry projects.

In recognition for her services to the food, wine and hospitality worlds, Rita was just bestowed the Order of Agricultural Merit by France’s Ministry of Agriculture and Food. Giving back to her community and supporting the members of this community are major components of Rita’s life. Rita was a principal architect of “The Days of Taste”, “Spoons Across America”, a wonderful program teaching young students about food in conjunction with AIWF and the James Beard Foundation. In addition to being a member of the Restaurant Committee of NYC and Company, Rita takes an active part in Les Dames d’Escoffier, New York Chapter.