Stephen GILES, General Manager
Born in St. Petersburg, FL, Stephen moved to St. Simons Island at an early age and grew up in our coastal town. At 15, he began working at Halyards as a server assistant for Chef Dave, a longtime family friend—where he discovered his passion for hospitality and creating special experiences for guests.
While earning his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Business Administration and Management at Georgia Southern University, Stephen continued growing his skills in the hospitality business as a lead bartender and certified culinary professional for Darden Restaurants, specifically Longhorn Steakhouse. These roles helped him learn how to be an effective coach and leader, creating a culture of teamwork and care amongst his team members.
After college, Stephen returned to his roots in the Golden Isles where he took on the role of General Manager of ECHO at the King and Prince for 4 years. In this position, he crafted the wine and beverage menu for guests to enjoy.
Stephen has now taken the next step in his career as the General Manager of La Plancha, using his special eye for hospitality to create memorable experiences with each guest. With a talent for cooking, numbers, and financials—and above all, a passion for hospitality and people—Stephen is a wonderful addition to the Halyard Restaurant Group team.
Victoria Jones, Executive Chef
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. She is currently the Executive Chef, bringing her passion for culinary arts to the restaurant and cooking delicious, 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.
