Meet Jessica Newberry, GM of the Clubhouse Restaurant
We’re pleased to introduce you to Jessica Newberry, our new General Manager at the Clubhouse Restaurant. We recently sat down with Jessica to learn more about her professional background, her new role at Harbor Club, what she loves most about working here, and a fun fact about herself.
Jessica – tell us a little about yourself and your background. How did you get started in your profession?
I have been in the restaurant industry on and off for about 20 years. In college, I started at Outback as a hostess and then became a server. Later, I moved into corporate sales and did that for several years. I missed the restaurant industry, though, so I got back into it when I moved to Lake Oconee in 2012. At that time. I worked as a restaurant manager and bartender for two local restaurants. I even worked in the kitchen making delicious food and desserts at one of them! Overall, it’s hard work, but it’s fun. I have a love for the restaurant industry in many ways.
What drew you to work at Harbor Club?
I actually live here in Harbor Club. I love the neighborhood. I could see the Clubhouse Restaurant had a lot of potential. I wanted to use my skills and knowledge to work alongside the staff here to make our Clubhouse Restaurant better than ever.
What’s been your favorite part of your job so far?
The best part has been meeting all the couples and families at Harbor Club. I’ve enjoyed getting to know them all. Even better is seeing their support of our club – it’s been amazing. Getting a fresh start and teaming up and working with Chef Damion Gallardo and Tim (our Food and Beverage Director) has been fantastic too. We collaborate on and implement new ideas to help make our patron’s experience at the restaurant first-rate.
What are your future plans for the Clubhouse Restaurant?
I’d like to see our restaurant become the “go-to” gathering place for our community. To make that happen, I plan to schedule more entertainment, like nights with live music and bands, a comedy show, bourbon dinners, and custom wine tastings. I’m working with our very talented staff on new ideas and menu items, additional custom-curated drinks, and of course, tying everything together with that warm Harbor Club neighborly feel. 2023 is going to be exciting, with lots of new upgrades!
What do you find most rewarding about working at Harbor Club so far?
Everyone’s appreciation for the staff (and myself) has been overwhelming – in a good way. Our team works very hard to make the Clubhouse Restaurant an amazing experience. Seeing our patrons enjoying themselves and hearing their positive feedback makes our extra efforts worthwhile.
When not working, what do you like to do for fun?
I love to work out, spend time with my family, go out on Lake Oconee, and travel. My husband and I have three children, and we enjoy spending time with them and being involved in their various activities.
Care to share an exciting, fun fact about yourself?
I’m a snow skier! Granted, I’m not great at it, but I still enjoy it very much. I always look forward to our family’s annual ski trip. After 20 years, you’d think I’d be a pro at it, but to this day, I still ski like a beginner.
We’re excited and grateful to have Jessica on the Harbor Club team. If not already, be sure to “schuss” by the Clubhouse Restaurant soon to welcome her.
Follow Harbor Club’s Facebook page to see the Clubhouse Restaurant’s menu updates, events, and social activities. To make a reservation, please email the Clubhouse. As always, if you have any questions, feel free to contact us. We look forward to serving you soon.