By-Line: Maddie Willis, The Mayfield Group Public Relations
Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa, an oceanfront, grand resort designed with a nostalgic, Old Florida ambiance, just south of St. Augustine, is proud to announce the appointment of Bryan “Scott” Downs as the new Chef de Cuisine of Atlantic Grille, the resort’s oceanfront dining experience.
A Florida native with deep roots in culinary tradition, Chef Downs brings more than two decades of experience to the kitchen, spanning luxury resorts, fine dining restaurants, and high-profile culinary programs. A graduate of the Florida Culinary Institute in West Palm Beach, his early training at renowned properties such as The Breakers Palm Beach, Grand Hyatt Buckhead, and Mar-a-Lago Club shaped his versatile and refined approach to cuisine.
At Atlantic Grille, Chef Downs will draw on his rich background, ranging from French gastronomy to elevated steakhouse fare, to spotlight fresh, locally inspired coastal cuisine. His passion for seafood runs deep, a skill passed down from his grandfather and father, who taught him the art of preparing everything from Gulf snapper to wild game.
“Chef Scott’s energy, creativity, and respect for ingredients align perfectly with the culinary vision of Hammock Beach,” said Woody Mitchell, Director of Food & Beverage at Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa. “He’s bringing a fresh perspective to Atlantic Grille, one that blends elevated technique with genuine Florida flavor.”
In his downtime, Chef Downs feels most at peace at the beach, taking in the same Atlantic views that he now shares with guests each evening.
Atlantic Grille is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with bar offerings available throughout the afternoon and evening. Resort guests, locals, and visitors alike are welcome to savor the new menus while soaking in the spectacular views.
For reservations or more information, please visit hammockbeach.com. To follow along on social media, visit Facebook at @HammockBeachResort, Instagram at @HammockBeach, or YouTube at @HammockBeach with #lifeathammockbeach.
