Meet the
Team

The People Behind the Experience

From the kitchen to the dining room, the enRich Bistro team is united by a passion for hospitality, community, and creating memorable moments. Get to know the people who bring our Bradenton-rooted vision to life every day.

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Richard Knowles

Chef-Owner

Born and raised in Bradenton, Rich has spent his career creating exceptional dining experiences while giving back to the community he proudly calls home.

  • Purchased and rebranded Ezra Café as enRich Bistro in 2014
  • Rebuilt the current Fairway Plaza location from the ground up after the pandemic
  • Sixth-generation Bradenton family roots
  • More than 27 years serving the local hospitality community
  • Passionate about golf, travel, pickleball, family, and community involvement

"Nothing is stronger than community and family."

Ommy Torres

Executive Chef

Chef Ommy leads the kitchen with creativity, authenticity, and a commitment to excellence, bringing global influences and personal expression to every plate.

  • Born in Caguas, Puerto Rico
  • More than 15 years of culinary experience
  • Joined enRich Bistro as Executive Chef in 2025
  • Passionate about leadership, travel, sports, and culinary innovation
  • Believes every dish should tell a story

"Everything I put on my plate is a representation of myself."

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Mike "Mikey" Cramer

Sous Chef

A longtime member of the enRich family, Mike has helped shape the kitchen's culture and creativity since joining the team in 2015.

  • Born in Bradenton and raised on Anna Maria Island
  • Started as a line cook and worked his way to Sous Chef
  • Passionate about local sourcing and ingredient quality
  • Values teamwork, trust, and creativity in the kitchen
  • Enjoys fishing and spending time with family

"Great ingredients make great food, and that's something we never compromise on."

Phil Pires

General Manager

Phil helps bring enRich Bistro's vision to life by combining hospitality leadership with a guest-first mindset.

  • Hospitality professional with 15 years of experience
  • Joined enRich Bistro when the new location opened in 2024
  • Focused on accountability, innovation, and team development
  • Helped lead the restaurant through multiple award-winning achievements
  • Enjoys golf, family time, and coaching his children through new experiences

"Some of life's best memories are made around a great meal."

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Rayjay Fernandez

Beverage Director

Rayjay's passion for hospitality and extensive beverage expertise have helped create one of Bradenton's most impressive cocktail and bourbon programs.

  • Bradenton-raised with deep local roots
  • Part of the enRich team since 2018
  • Responsible for building the area's largest bourbon selection
  • Experienced in breweries, wine bars, and cocktail programs
  • Enjoys golf, fishing, painting, and spending time with his German Shepherd, Art

"Creating memorable experiences starts with a great drink and a great conversation."

Chris Marinovich

Director of Good Vibes

Chris has been part of the enRich journey since day one, helping create the welcoming atmosphere guests know and love.

  • Joined the company in 2014
  • Helped build both Innovative Dining and enRich Bistro alongside Rich
  • Known for personalized guest service and community relationships
  • Passionate about people, hospitality, and creating memorable experiences
  • Enjoys the beach, golf, and family time

"It's the people that keep me going."

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Mike-North

Mike North

Manager | Bartender | Events Team

Mike brings energy, beverage expertise, and event experience to every guest interaction.

  • Joined enRich Bistro in 2024
  • Extensive wine and beverage knowledge
  • Helps create and execute special events
  • Passionate about hospitality and guest experiences
  • Enjoys connecting with guests and sharing his expertise

Nikki Cibu

Marketing & Events Coordinator

Nikki helps turn ideas into unforgettable experiences while sharing the enRich story through events and marketing.

  • Hospitality professional with 15 years of experience
  • Joined the team in 2025
  • Coordinates marketing efforts for enRich Bistro and Innovative Dining
  • Creates memorable celebrations, private events, and guest experiences
  • Loves travel, hiking, discovering new restaurants, and spending time with family

"Making someone's special day even better is the most rewarding part of what I do."

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Dick & Melanie Knowles

The Family Behind the Family

The Knowles family spirit is woven into every part of enRich Bistro, and Dick and Melanie continue to play an important role in the restaurant's success.

  • Lifelong Bradenton residents
  • Frequently assist with restaurant operations and catering events
  • Dick handcrafted several signature wood tables throughout the restaurant
  • Known for lending a helping hand wherever needed
  • Proud supporters of the family business and local community

"Hospitality starts with making people feel at home."

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Catering Beyond the Bistro

Did you know enRich Bistro also caters weddings, corporate events, and private gatherings through our sister company, Innovative Dining?

Matthew Rogers

Director of Operations, Innovative Dining

Matthew brings more than 30 years of hospitality experience to creating seamless, memorable off-site events.

  • Joined Innovative Dining in 2024
  • Oversees catering and event operations
  • Specializes in client relationships and event execution
  • Passionate about creating personalized experiences

"I love the intimacy and interaction I get with clients."

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Plan Your Next Event with Us

Ready to make your next celebration, gathering, or private event unforgettable? Whether it’s an intimate dinner or a momentous occasion, we’re here to handle every detail. Contact us today to experience the difference.

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