A WINE-CENTRIC RESTAURANT
AND SPECIALTY BOOKSTORE

Katie Barringer
Co-Owner

Jordan Smelt
Co-Owner,
Beverage
Director

Katie Barringer’s passion for literature, art, and culture can be found throughout Lucian, from the colorful and extensive book collection to the warmth and sophistication of the dining room. Her expertise is years in the making, cultivated during her years working in both hospitality and the arts before she opened her first bookstore, Atlanta’s beloved Cover Books in 2015. At Lucian, Katie’s book selections reflect a deep appreciation for art, design, food, wine, and visual culture, thoughtfully displayed on shelves that overlook the dining room for guests to peruse and purchase. Katie also plays a pivotal role in spearheading Lucian’s events, which manifest as book launches, curated dinners, and engaging conversations throughout the year.

Jordan Smelt leads the charge on Lucian’s extensive yet approachable wine list of over 450 bottles, organized by grape variety for easy perusal and discovery, and designed with an editorial eye that makes it reminiscent of a magazine. Originally from Tampa, Jordan has made Atlanta his home for over two decades, during which time he has honed his skills at some of the city’s finest establishments, including Cakes & Ale, Holeman & Finch, and Restaurant Eugene, and served as the original General Manager of wine distribution company Rive Gauche Wine Co. Outside of the restaurant, Jordan cherishes fine wines and time spent with his wife, Katie Barringer, and their three beloved pets.

Jason Paolini
Executive Chef

Inveterate Atlanta chef and Louisiana native Jason Paolini brings over 20 years in Atlanta's dining scene to Lucian Books and Wine, where as executive chef he helms a menu of thoughtful, elegant fare perfectly tuned to Lucian’s wine-centric experience. Prior to joining Lucian in January 2022, Jason held several long-term leadership roles at Atlanta institutions, including as executive culinary director for chef Linton Hopkins' Resurgens Hospitality; chef de cuisine for Hopkin's acclaimed Restaurant Eugene and Holeman & Finch; and as executive chef for the Atlanta Botanical Garden's Longleaf Restaurant. In addition to dinner and lunch, Jason is also the culinary force behind Lucian's many special events, collaborating with cookbook authors and wine producers around the country to execute wholly original menus that speak to his creativity and versatility in the kitchen.