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The Pearl Hotel Welcomes Executive Chef Jordan Economy to Lead Havana Beach Bar & Grill

August 5, 2026 by SoWal Staff

The Pearl Hotel, the luxury boutique hotel and crown jewel of the Rosemary Beach community, announces the appointment of Executive Chef Jordan Economy to lead the culinary program at its signature restaurant, Havana Beach Bar & Grill. Bringing more than two decades of culinary experience and a passion for global cuisine, Chef Economy will oversee the restaurant’s evolving food and beverage offerings while honoring the flavors that have made the eatery a favorite along 30A.  

Inspired by the abundance of fresh Gulf ingredients and cuisines from around the world, Chef Economy's approach balances familiar favorites with thoughtfully selected bites for patrons. Since joining the team, he has introduced a new rooftop lounge menu and rotating Chef's Table specials, offering guests inspired dishes that push culinary boundaries and highlight seasonal elements and internationally inspired flavors. Guests can also expect additions including charred octopus with tahini mousse and preserved lemon, curated oyster selections, seafood towers and butcher boards, all designed to complement Havana Beach Bar & Grill's elevated coastal dining experience.  

"What excites me most about this opportunity at Havana Beach is the chance to contribute not only to the culture of the restaurant, but to the culinary identity of 30A as a whole," said Chef Jordan Economy, Executive Chef at Havana Beach Bar & Grill. "I want to bring bold flavors, new culinary perspectives, and meaningful cultural experiences to 30A, and I can think of no better place to do that than with the innovative team at Havana Beach."  

A New Orleans native, Chef Economy began his culinary journey as a teenager and has spent his career studying and cooking a wide range of global cuisines, including Korean, Vietnamese, French, Spanish, Japanese, Indian, African, Greek, Moroccan and Mediterranean traditions. Throughout his career, he has led kitchens at acclaimed restaurants across the South, served as a culinary consultant for restaurant concepts nationwide and made three appearances on Food Network. Some of his roles have included Executive Chef at The Daytrader, Executive Chef & Culinary Director at Salt & Time and Chef de Cuisine and Opening Chef at Doris Metropolitan. 

"Chef Jordan brings an incredible depth of experience, modern techniques and creativity to Havana Beach Bar & Grill, and we're thrilled to welcome him to The Pearl," said Kyle Davis, General Manager at The Pearl Hotel. "His collaborative leadership style, passion for hospitality and thoughtful approach to cuisine make him a wonderful fit for our team, and we're excited for guests to experience his vision."  

Located within The Pearl Hotel, Havana Beach Bar & Grill offers a distinctive dining experience inspired by the Gulf Coast, Caribbean and the spirit of old Havana. From its signature dining room and lively bar to its rooftop overlooking Rosemary Beach, the restaurant pairs exceptional cuisine with one of the most memorable settings along Scenic Highway 30A. 

Havana Beach Bar & Grill is open daily for brunch from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and for dinner from 4 - 9 p.m.  The bar and rooftop (weather permitting) are open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., with happy hour offered Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Seasonal hours apply. 

The Pearl is a 55-room luxury boutique hotel located in the coastal community of Rosemary Beach along Northwest Florida’s Scenic Highway 30A. Opened in August 2013, The Pearl is known for its intimate scale, timeless design, and elevated guest experience. The hotel features upscale amenities including Havana Beach Bar & Grill, its signature restaurant inspired by the vibrant flavors and spirit of the Gulf Coast and Caribbean; a full-service spa; sophisticated meeting and event spaces; and a signature pool area with a rooftop lounge. The Pearl Hotel is part of the award-winning portfolio of the subsidiaries and affiliates of The St. Joe Company, a Northwest Florida-based real estate development, hospitality, and asset management company. Convenient to Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport in Panama City, The Pearl offers easy access for travelers seeking a boutique beachside escape. For more information, visit www.thepearlrb.com.  

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