Food at Emma
As the flagship of the Pearl culinary community, Hotel Emma’s focus on food and service is at the heart of everything we do. Incredibly rich local sources for world-class culinary experiences are as close as the CIA, any of Pearl’s extraordinary restaurants, or the hotel’s own Supper, Larder and Sternewirth.
Infused with the flavor of San Antonio’s cultures and history, Hotel Emma is leading a culinary revolution with cuisine to satisfy your appetite for flavor and substance.
“First we eat. Then we do everything else.”
— MFK Fisher
Chef John Brand
Director of Culinary Endeavors
John is a true representative of that uniquely American class of chef – self-taught, working his way up from teenaged dishwasher to nationally-recognized chef. Twenty-five years after impressive stints at The Little Nell in Aspen, The Broadmoor and Keswick Hall, his vision is guiding Hotel Emma’s raison d'etre: a great hotel and cultural/culinary center of the city — the place with the best restaurant, the best martini, where we celebrate, make deals, and show off what we love most about San Antonio.
Chef Jorge Hernández
Executive Chef
After helming one of the country’s most prestigious restaurants, Jorge comes home to his Texas roots to share his masterful techniques with the city and community that raised him. The San Antonio native has over 15 years of esteemed industry experience, honed during his tenure at D.C.’s two Michelin-starred minibar by José Andrés, as well as Austin’s Qui Restaurant and the Carpenter Hotel. A culinary raconteur, Jorge is focused on capturing Emma’s unique story through food — crafting rich, memorable experiences on every plate.