Jill Weber
Restaurateur.
Wine Lover.
Archaeologist.
Meet Jill Weber, PhD: Archaeologist, Restaurateur, and Wine Nomad!
I am Jill – an inveterate adventurer and a rare blend of archaeologist, restaurateur, and dedicated wine nomad. I merge these talents to bridge the ancient world with modern tastes and hospitality. Forget dry textbooks, learn from me! My wine tastings and talks uniquely position me as an innovator in Archaeology and History as Terroir, and a leading champion for Ancient World Wine.
Armed with a Ph.D. in Anthropology, I have spent decades in the Middle East unearthing history while specializing in economies, consumption, and animals – like the kunga! I am the very proud discoverer of this ancient animal, the World’s First Engineered Equid!
With archaeology’s tangible insight to the deep, communal connection between land, history, plate, and glass, I founded Soujourn Philly Hospitality: Jet Wine Bar, Rex at the Royal, and Sor Ynez. These are not just places to eat and drink, but to forge community and immerse in culture.
My passion lies in championing the underdog and the unusual—the forgotten grapes and the overlooked regions, especially wines from places like the Republic of Georgia, Turkey, and Lebanon, where 8,000-year-old traditions are known to persist – or are awaiting (re)discovery.
I am a pioneering voice for Ancient World Wine. I tell stories that link the ancient world, make a connection, and find a moment of history in every sip. If a bottle has an epic past, you can be sure I’m pouring it. You can join me at my award-winning wine tastings at Jet wine Bar.
Learn with me, and book a tasting, a talk, a corporate event or gift!
I am a proud co-founder and member of the Sisterly Love Collective – a non-profit alliance of women across the Philadelphia region banding together to empower and advance women in the food and hospitality space through networking, mentorship, and communal support.
Our group includes more than 100 members, has been recognized as a community Connector by Rad Girl, has raised over $50,000 for charities, and throws Philly’s annual cookbook party: Cookbooks and Convos, presented by OpenTable.