Meet the Tastemakers
Meet the Tastemakers
The People Behind the Experience
At Hotel Phoenix, exceptional dining and unforgettable drinks are shaped by the people behind them. Meet the culinary and beverage talents bringing creativity, craftsmanship, and a distinct sense of character to our dining and drinking experiences. From thoughtfully crafted cuisine to inspired cocktails, our tastemakers bring their passion for hospitality to every detail.
Chef Shaun Hergatt
Australian-born, New York-based Chef Shaun Hergatt is celebrated for his refined approach to contemporary cuisine, technical precision, and artful presentation. His distinguished career includes multiple Michelin-starred restaurants, including SHO Shaun Hergatt, Juni, and Vestry.
At Zephyr Southern Brasserie, Hergatt brings his culinary perspective to the heart of Atlanta, where Southern hospitality meets the timeless spirit of a classic brasserie. His influence is reflected in a menu that celebrates familiar flavors through thoughtful technique, exceptional ingredients, and a sense of occasion, inviting guests to gather, connect, and enjoy the pleasures of a memorable meal.
Thandi Walton
Nationally acclaimed and Smithsonian-recognized mixologist Thandi Walton brings a bold, creative spirit to Hotel Phoenix, drawing inspiration from her Zimbabwean roots, global influences, and a celebrated career in Atlanta’s cocktail scene.
With a passion for storytelling through flavor, Thandi believes a great cocktail is more than a drink—it’s an experience that brings people together. Her approach blends unexpected ingredients, thoughtful techniques, and a genuine love of hospitality, creating beverages that are as memorable as the moments they accompany.
As Beverage Director, Thandi has helped shape the identity of Hotel Phoenix’s beverage program, developing signature cocktails that celebrate Atlanta’s culture, creativity, and character. Among them is The Atlantan, a cocktail created in collaboration with Atlanta’s B5, reflecting the city’s vibrant cocktail community and the spirit of collaboration at the heart of her work.