Partridge Inn Names F&B Director
JUNE 19, 2009 - The Partridge Inn and The Verandah Grill are pleased to welcome Lancer Lockaby back to the staff as the new Food and Beverage Director. From washing dishes at age 15 to earning his first restaurant manager position at age 20 to landing his new position at The Partridge Inn, Lockaby always had a passion for the restaurant industry.
As he worked up the industry ladder, Lockaby developed an understanding of what guests want and he strives to meet those needs. Lockaby's primary objective for the food and beverage program is to create value for the restaurant guests by delivering reliable, genuinely caring and timely service that will exceed their expectations.
"I look forward to enhancing the positive relationship that The Verandah Grill has with its existing, loyal customers and also attracting new diners to the restaurant and lounge," Lockaby said.
Enhancements Lockaby plans to implement at the Verandah Grill include new exciting events and menus to attract and entertain a variety of guests. Within the first few weeks Lockaby launched a new "Small Bites, Signature Drinks and Martini Menu" to update the lounge offerings. The Lounge now provides a candlelit ambiance and new entertainment will take place from 9 p.m. to midnight. The kitchen will stay open later to serve dishes for those late night guests.
During his studies at the University of North Florida, Lockaby oversaw the opening and served as the General Manager for the 95 Cordova Restaurant at the Casa Monica Hotel in St. Augustine, Fla. for three years. He then served as the Director of Restaurants for Omni Hotels for two years. For the past three years, Lockaby has worked for The West Paces Hotel Group, which manages The Partridge Inn, as a food and beverage task force director. During this time he traveled the world and opened new hotels in Ireland, Singapore, Jamaica, Chicago, Miami and Savannah Ga.
Aside from work, Lockaby loves surfing, but with the move inland, he will spend most of his free time at the gym or with his loyal Chihuahua. He is excited to be in Augusta and looks forward to experiencing the dining scene alongside locals.
The Partridge Inn is renowned for its charming Southern details, including beautiful verandahs, classic columns, stately Magnolia trees and unparalleled personal service. The hotel, which is managed by The West Paces Hotel Group, has 148 executive rooms, studios and deluxe suites; a fitness center; an outdoor swimming pool and high-tech meeting facilities.