POA hires staff members, sets Granada open house
HOT SPRINGS VILLAGE — The Hot Springs Village Property Owners Association recently hired both a new executive chef and a new director to oversee food and beverage operations within the community’s restaurants and clubs.
Magdy Hussein, the new food and beverage director, has an extensive background in all areas of club management, specifically food and beverage operations. He has experience working for both country clubs and city clubs.
Brian Yeary, the new executive chef, has held that role for more than two decades at private clubs in Florida.
“Magdy and Brian bring unmatched talent, leadership and culinary skill to Hot Springs Village,” Village CEO Lesley Nalley said in a news release. “We are proud to provide first-rate food and beverage operations for our residents and guests, and these two new staff members will make our food and beverage service even better.”
Hussein began his restaurant management career in the Little Italy neighborhood of New York City, then relocated to Memphis to work as a club manager. While he was managing The Shreveport Club in Shreveport, La., it was recognized as a Platinum Club of America. The award highlighted Hussein’s excellence in service and his ability to attract and retain highly motivated employees.
Yeary has prepared meals for luminaries including President George H.W. Bush, President George W. Bush, Lady Bird Johnson, Gov. Mike Huckabee and Burt Reynolds. He was also the chef for the NFL’s Jacksonville Jaguars. While in Florida, he worked at clubs in Jacksonville, Boca Raton and West Palm Beach. Yeary has a culinary arts degree from Johnson and Wales University in Norfolk, Va.
“Magdy is a visionary who is passionate about building a strong team and about exceeding expectations in quality and service. Brian creates dishes that are simple but not boring, and elegant but not extravagant. We’re excited about these excellent additions to our staff,” Nalley said.
Hussein will oversee all food and beverage facilities operated by the Hot Springs Village POA, including Granada Grill, where open house activities will continue from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. today.
All are welcome to stop by and meet both Hussein and Yeary and additional restaurant staff, view the exciting and fresh chef-driven menu, and see the interior dining room renovations.
As thanks to HSV members for their patience and understanding during the transition period, complimentary grilled hamburgers and hot dogs will be given to attendees, along with soft serve ice cream. Full bar service will also be available for purchase.
Granada Grill will officially open Wednesday, with lunch from
11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and dinner from 5
-9 p.m. The first week’s dinner special will be fried chicken, showcasing the menu’s modern southern cuisine made from the freshest ingredients.