FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 8, 2026
Media Contact:
Shannon Phillips
Abshire Public Relations
912.695.7881
pr@abshirepr.com
SAVANNAH, GA – McKibbon Hospitality has announced the appointment of Norma Maytag as Waving Girl Executive Chef, joining the leadership team at the newly developed Tempo by Hilton Savannah Historic District, a modern lifestyle hotel set to open in late April 2026. Maytag will lead all culinary operations for the hotel’s signature food and beverage concepts, including the highly anticipated Waving Girl rooftop restaurant, which will serve dinner daily and weekend brunch.
Tempo by Hilton Savannah Historic District will introduce a fresh, lifestyle-driven hospitality experience in the heart of downtown Savannah, featuring thoughtfully designed guest rooms, wellness-focused amenities, vibrant social spaces, and a rooftop bar with sweeping city views.
Maytag brings more than 15 years of culinary leadership experience across fine dining, upscale casual, and high-volume environments. Known for her hands-on leadership style and creative approach to menu development, she will oversee kitchen operations, menu innovation, and team development in alignment with Tempo’s bold, contemporary brand.
“Norma’s culinary vision and operational expertise make her an outstanding addition to our Savannah team,” said Bryan Hale, General Manager of Tempo by Hilton Savannah Historic District. “She brings the creativity and leadership needed to bring the Waving Girl concept to life.”
Most recently, Maytag served as Chef de Cuisine at Belfair Golf Club in Bluffton, South Carolina, where she led seasonal menu development and streamlined kitchen operations. She previously served as Corporate Executive Chef for Jim ’N Nick’s Community BBQ in Pooler, Georgia, overseeing high-volume kitchen operations, financial performance, and large-scale catering.
Her background also includes serving as Managing Partner and Executive Chef at Table 82 in Lubbock, Texas, as well as more than a decade with The Cheesecake Factory, where she supported multiple locations nationwide and new restaurant openings.
A Savannah resident, Maytag holds a Bachelor of Science in Hotel & Restaurant Management from Widener University and looks forward to creating a culinary destination that reflects Savannah’s energy, culture, and coastal influences.
To learn more about Tempo by Hilton Savannah Historic District, visit:
https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/atluvpo-tempo-savannah-historic-district/
To explore dining offerings, visit:
https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/atluvpo-tempo-savannah-historic-district/dining/
About McKibbon Hospitality:
Headquartered in Tampa, FL, McKibbon Hospitality creates memorable hospitality experiences that inspire brand and property loyalty. It’s how we’ve grown into one of the largest (and most awarded) hotel management companies in the country. We operate dozens of hotels for Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, IHG, Kimpton and other iconic hospitality brands. Our legacy is built on a foundation of integrity, anchored in how we value our guests, treat our associates and partners, and give back to our communities. Visit McKibbon.com to learn more.
About Tempo by Hilton Savannah Historic District:
Tempo by Hilton Savannah Historic District is a newly developed lifestyle hotel located in the heart of downtown Savannah. Designed for the modern traveler, the hotel blends contemporary style with wellness-focused amenities, flexible social spaces, and thoughtfully curated experiences. Guests can enjoy elevated accommodations, vibrant gathering areas, and a signature rooftop bar offering panoramic views of the city, all within walking distance of Savannah’s iconic historic attractions.
About Waving Girl:
Waving Girl is the signature rooftop dining experience at Tempo by Hilton Savannah Historic District. Inspired by Savannah’s rich maritime history and named after the city’s iconic “Waving Girl,” the restaurant offers a dynamic culinary program featuring fresh, coastal-inspired cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, and sweeping views of the Savannah skyline. Designed as both a local gathering place and a destination for visitors, Waving Girl delivers an elevated yet approachable dining experience.