Shawn Serrano, Executive Chef La Plancha
Shawn Serrano has spent years in the food and beverage industry building a career rooted in hospitality, flavor, and connection. Growing up in a Puerto Rican household, he remembers sitting in his grandmother’s kitchen watching her cook with patience, love, and instinct. Those moments shaped the way he sees food today—as a way to bring people together and create a sense of belonging around the table.
Over time, Shawn has developed a culinary style that honors tradition while embracing innovation. His thoughtful, inventive approach centers on crafting dishes that balance comfort with creativity, each designed to deliver a memorable and engaging experience for every guest.
As Executive Chef at La Plancha, Shawn leads with intention—introducing new techniques, reimagining menus, and elevating the dining experience. He creates meals that turn first-time visitors into loyal guests, building lasting connections that bring people back not just for the food, but for the feeling of being genuinely welcomed and valued.
Victoria Jones, General Manager for La Plancha
Since a young age, Victoria Jones has had a passion for food—learning to cook from her mother and grandfather as she watched them prepare delicious, diverse recipes in the kitchen. Her grandfather, an Air Force veteran, had traveled the country from coast to coast and learned new flavors and dishes in every stop—and instilled this love for flavor in Victoria. His enchiladas casserole was always her favorite meal!
Victoria graduated from high school in Peach County, Georgia, where she began her career working in restaurants. Her first job offered great training and experience—and she was discovered there by Chef John Belechak, who introduced her to Palmers Village Cafe on Saint Simons Island. At Palmers, she learned a new set of skills and techniques from Chef John—someone she still considers one of her favorite chefs and friends—working with him for 4 years making homemade breakfast and lunch items. Chef John decided to teach her a higher skill set, formal dining—this included menu development and taste and flavor profiles, as well as organizational skills and leadership qualities.
From Palmers, Victoria joined the Halyards team where she worked for four years under Chef Franciso Jimenez and Chef Adam Jones, continuing to develop her culinary expertise. She then joined La Plancha—and has been there since their opening day. Previously Executive Chef, she is now General Manager, bringing her passion for culinary arts to the restaurant and overseeing inventive dishes for us to enjoy every day.
Victoria lives in Glynn County with her wife, Cassie Jones. Outside of work you may find her fishing in our local waters, kayaking, or spending time with their Chihuahua, Chevy.
