Hilton Pensacola Beach and Salt Restaurant Shine at Culinary Competitions
The culinary scene in Pensacola Beach is thriving, and two recent accolades have put the Hilton Pensacola Beach and its upscale-casual Salt Restaurant in the spotlight. These honors not only celebrate the creativity and dedication of the culinary team but also highlight the growing appreciation for local flavors and innovative dining experiences.
Celebrating Local Flavors at the Taste of Gulf Breeze
On October 4, Hilton Pensacola Beach clinched the judges’ choice award for best beverage at the 11th annual Taste of Gulf Breeze. The winning cocktail, aptly named the Proper Pear, was crafted by restaurant manager Rob Jamieson. This delightful concoction features a blend of rum, spiced pear, black pepper, and raspberry cold foam, perfectly embodying the essence of fall on Pensacola Beach.
Jamieson expressed his passion for seasonal flavors, stating, “There is nothing I love more than bringing seasonal flavors to life, and the Proper Pear is the perfect representation of fall on Pensacola Beach.” The cocktail’s warmth, derived from the rum and house-made spiced pear syrup, is beautifully balanced by the raspberry foam, creating a luscious drinking experience that resonates with the season.
A Culinary Triumph at Taste of the Beach
Just a week later, Salt Restaurant showcased its culinary prowess at the Taste of the Beach event, where it secured third place in the signature dish contest. Chef John Key’s Lamb Terrine was the star of the show, featuring a rich lamb demi-glace, parsnip and celeriac puree, and marinated asparagus tips. This dish not only highlights the depth of flavor but also reflects Key’s diverse culinary background.
Key, a native of the Bahamas, draws inspiration from various culinary traditions, including Caribbean, Italian, French, and Southern U.S. cuisines. He described his dish as a representation of “a taste of the earth,” emphasizing the harmony of flavors from the lamb, demi-glace, and the subtle sweetness of the accompanying vegetables. “It showcases umami at its finest,” he added, underscoring the dish’s complexity and appeal.
A Commitment to Excellence
Paul Durant, the Director of Food and Beverage at Hilton Pensacola Beach, expressed immense pride in his team’s achievements. With over 21 years of service at Innisfree Hotels, Durant oversees a range of dining options, including Bonsai, Salt, Starbucks Grab & Go, and Sal de Mar. He praised his team members—Rob Jamieson, Chef John Key, Chef Mark Calvo, Chef Ross Gamble, and Director of Outlets Marissa Cross—for their unwavering dedication to culinary excellence.
“Participating in and placing in these competitions is a testament to all the effort the entire food and beverage team puts in every day,” Durant remarked. He emphasized the importance of creating memorable dining experiences for guests, stating that the Hilton Food and Beverage team is “laser-focused” on this mission.
Building Community Connections
Durant also highlighted the significance of local events in fostering relationships within the community. He encouraged locals to visit Bonsai, Salt, and Sal de Mar for an elevated dining experience. The Hilton’s event department caters to a variety of needs, making it a versatile venue for both locals and visitors.
Manuel Rodriguez, the Corporate Director of Food and Beverage for Innisfree Hotels, echoed Durant’s sentiments. With a portfolio that includes five Pensacola Beach hotel properties and various dining establishments, Rodriguez expressed satisfaction with the brand’s culinary efforts resonating with both guests and the local community.
“Participating in and placing in these competitions is a testament to all the effort that Rob, John, Mark, and our entire food and beverage teams put in every day,” Rodriguez stated. He reiterated the commitment to providing guests with exceptional dining and drinking experiences.
Conclusion
The recent accolades awarded to Hilton Pensacola Beach and Salt Restaurant are not just wins for the establishments but also a celebration of the vibrant culinary landscape in Pensacola Beach. With a focus on seasonal ingredients, innovative flavors, and community engagement, these culinary teams are setting a high standard for dining in the area. As they continue to push the boundaries of creativity and excellence, guests can look forward to more exciting culinary experiences in the future.