The Pearl Hotel has welcomed Executive Chef Francisco “Cisco” Pomalaza to helm Havana Beach Bar & Grill’s award-winning dining experience. The acclaimed restaurant, a recipient of Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence, celebrates the art of living, eating and drinking well, paying homage to El Floridita, Ernest Hemingway’s favorite Old Havana haunt.
Chef Cisco’s distinguished culinary career includes stints at several award-winning restaurants, including Miami’s Talula, Tampa’s Council Oak Steaks & Seafood and 7th Avenue Social in Naples, where his creativity, vision and deep-rooted passion for diverse flavors earned him a reputation both as a skilled culinary artist and inspiring leader.
Cooking is an art form. It’s about bringing creativity and passion to every dish, but also respecting the techniques that make the food come alive. – Chef Francisco Pomalaza
Born in Atlanta and raised in Miami by Peruvian parents, Chef Cisco’s personal and professional paths have been inspired by Latin American traditions. He is passionate about imparting this sense of warmth, color and joy to the Havana Beach dining experience.
Chef Cisco fell in love with South Walton during an unexpected getaway, having evacuated to the 30A area from Tampa during Hurricane Milton last year. When the Executive Chef position at Havana Beach became vacant just a few months later, he took it as a sign to apply. The rest, as they say, is history.
As Executive Chef, Chef Cisco will lead the 30A restaurant, located within The Pearl Hotel, through a reimagining of its Caribbean-inspired menu, harmoniously blending rich traditions and techniques with an adventurous and creative approach that takes guests on a culinary journey. As always, Havana Beach will remain committed to incorporating regional grains, fresh produce and local seafood into its menu offerings and offering an extensive wine list and craft cocktails.
Havana Beach will roll out Chef Cisco’s reimagined menu in early 2026, so be sure to stay tuned for updates. In the meantime, the restaurant invites guests to experience its three distinct dining experiences – at the bar, on the rooftop or in the main dining room.
Havana Beach is open daily for brunch (8 a.m. to 2 p.m) and dinner (4 to 9 p.m.). The bar is open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; happy hour is Monday through Thursday, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The rooftop is open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., weather-permitting. Seasonal hours apply.
Click here to make your Havana Beach reservation, or call 850-588-2882. Follow Havana Beach on Instagram or Facebook for more.
Details included in this story were accurate at time of publication but are subject to change based on seasonal schedules, amenity and/or operational updates. For the most current information, please visit the respective property’s website.
