Signia by Hilton Savannah Brings a New Era of Southern Dining to the Hostess City
Mashama Bailey Named Chef Partner at Signia by Hilton Savannah
Savannah’s legendary culinary scene is entering an exciting new chapter as Hilton announces acclaimed chef Mashama Bailey as chef partner for the highly anticipated Signia by Hilton Savannah. Known for her award-winning approach to Southern cuisine, cultural storytelling, and ingredient-driven cooking, Bailey will bring her distinctive culinary vision to one of the city’s most anticipated luxury hotel openings.
The partnership marks a major milestone for both Bailey and Signia by Hilton Savannah, combining one of the country’s most celebrated chefs with Hilton’s growing luxury hospitality brand. The hotel is expected to open in 2028 as a 444-room property connected to the Savannah Convention Center, featuring elevated dining experiences designed to showcase the spirit and flavors of the Low Country.
A Chef Who Put Savannah on the Culinary Map
For Chef Mashama Bailey, Savannah is more than a destination—it is part of her culinary identity.
Bailey is the executive chef and partner behind The Grey, the nationally recognized restaurant located inside a restored former Greyhound bus terminal in Savannah’s Historic District. Through The Grey, Bailey has become known for blending Southern traditions, African American foodways, and global influences into a cuisine that honors history while looking toward the future.
Her achievements include winning the James Beard Foundation’s Outstanding Chef award and earning widespread recognition as one of the most influential voices in modern American cuisine.
Image Credit: Signia by Hilton Savannah
A Culinary Partnership Rooted in Place
At Signia by Hilton Savannah, Bailey’s role will help shape a signature dining experience that reflects the city’s rich heritage and evolving food culture.
Rather than simply creating another hotel restaurant, Bailey’s approach focuses on telling a story through food—connecting guests to Savannah’s coastal landscapes, agricultural traditions, and diverse cultural influences.
Her cooking style celebrates:
Seasonal Southern ingredients
Coastal seafood traditions
Historic Lowcountry recipes
Local farmers and producers
The cultural stories behind every dish
The result will be a dining experience designed to feel both deeply connected to Savannah and unmistakably modern.
Signia by Hilton Savannah: A New Luxury Destination
The arrival of Signia by Hilton Savannah represents a significant addition to the city’s luxury hospitality landscape. The property will serve as the headquarters hotel for the Savannah Convention Center and will introduce Hilton’s upscale Signia brand to the market.
The hotel is planned to feature:
444 guest rooms
More than 34,000 square feet of meeting and event space
Multiple food and beverage concepts
A rooftop bar with panoramic views
Club Signia premium guest experiences
Wellness and leisure amenities
The combination of sophisticated design, elevated service, and chef-driven dining reflects Signia by Hilton’s focus on creating destination-worthy experiences.
Image Credit: Signia by Hilton Savannah
Why Mashama Bailey’s Arrival Matters for Savannah
Savannah has long been celebrated for its historic architecture, Southern hospitality, and culinary traditions. Bailey’s appointment signals the city’s continued rise as a nationally recognized food destination.
Her work has helped redefine what Southern cuisine can be—honoring generations of tradition while introducing new perspectives and techniques.
For travelers visiting Savannah, Signia by Hilton Savannah’s dining program is expected to become another reason to experience the city, joining its legendary restaurants, historic neighborhoods, and vibrant cultural attractions.
A New Chapter for Southern Hospitality
With Mashama Bailey as chef partner, Signia by Hilton Savannah is positioned to become one of the most anticipated luxury hotel openings in the Southeast.
The collaboration brings together a globally recognized chef, an iconic Southern city, and a hospitality brand focused on memorable experiences.
When the doors open, guests can expect more than a meal—they can expect a taste of Savannah’s history, creativity, and future served on one unforgettable plate.
Image Credit: Signia by Hilton Savannah
With Mashama Bailey leading its culinary vision, Signia by Hilton Savannah is set to become one of the Southeast’s most exciting luxury hotel openings—where world-class hospitality meets the soul of Southern cuisine.
FAQ
Who is Chef Mashama Bailey?
Chef Mashama Bailey is a James Beard Award-winning chef and partner of The Grey in Savannah, Georgia, known for her innovative approach to Southern cuisine and food history.
What restaurant is Mashama Bailey famous for?
Mashama Bailey is best known for The Grey, a nationally acclaimed Savannah restaurant located in a restored historic Greyhound bus terminal.
What is Signia by Hilton Savannah?
Signia by Hilton Savannah is a luxury hotel planned for Savannah’s riverfront area near the Savannah Convention Center, featuring upscale accommodations, dining, wellness, and meeting spaces.
When will Signia by Hilton Savannah open?
Signia by Hilton Savannah is expected to open in 2028.
What type of cuisine will Mashama Bailey bring to Signia by Hilton Savannah?
Chef Bailey’s cuisine focuses on Southern and Lowcountry traditions, combining regional ingredients with cultural storytelling and modern culinary techniques.
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