Jacmel Inn — A Matter of Taste

Written by Betsy O'Leary | Photos by Johnny Chauvin

When you think of fine dining in Hammond America, Jacmel Inn tops most lists. Located at 903 East Morris, it has been a delicious option for diners since it opened in 1977.

Jacmel began as a residence built in 1888. Original owners Paul Murphy and Rick Colucci renovated the kitchen while keeping much of the cozy atmosphere, such as the fireplace that glows warmly on cold evenings.

In 2022, he and his partners, Krizia Robledo, NP, and Rafelo Robledo, MD., took over ownership of Jacmel, and Flores took the helm as the new CEO. His focus is on providing an enjoyable atmosphere and a top-notch dining experience for everyone.

Journey to Louisiana

Flores was born in Miami and raised in his parent’s home country, Honduras. At 17, he returned to the USA, living in Colorado. He then moved to Houston and started working in the restaurant business.

Wanting to be closer to his family, he relocated to Mandeville. It was then that Flores ventured to New Orleans to learn the art of fine dining service. He worked at Superior Seafood as a bartender and in the kitchen, simultaneously completing Commander’s Palace six-month program of fine dining skills. Flores became an expert at plating food and pairing wine and different liquors with meals.

A Family Affair

Flores joined the Jacmel team as a server. He then was a bartender before becoming assistant manager and eventually manager. When the opportunity of ownership presented itself, he knew just who to approach. His sister, Krizia Robledo, NP, and her husband, Rafael Robledo, MD, are established business owners in Hammond. The couple have practiced medicine at the Internal Medicine Clinic of Tangipahoa in Hammond for years but were looking for an additional way to invest in the local community. Partnering together fits that goal perfectly.

Changes, Goals, Everyone Plays a Role

Flores was determined to continue to provide customers with the best service with Jacmel’s elegant plates and the expectation of a fine dining experience. Executive Chef Brandon Martinez, who began as a sous chef, now delights guests with unique, one-of-a-kind dishes that can not be found anywhere else. They also collaborate with Chef Kalych Padro, an international, award-winning chef whose experiences include catering at the 2019 Grammy Awards. Chef Padro specializes in banquets and catering, creating exquisite menus tailored to every budget while striving to be “next level” in what is offered.

No Shortcuts

Food quality and freshness sets Jacmel apart, for instance, when fish is served, it’s often only about 10 hours out of the water. All fish are bought whole and sliced in-house to preserve freshness. Jacmel also rotates its menus with the seasons to incorporate fresh ingredients from our local farmer’s market.

Jacmel is Branching Out.

While keeping many favorite dishes on their menu, the team also offers cuisines with Spanish, French, Italian, and other Mediterranean influences.

The Famous Bar

The talented mixologists at Jacmel won first place in last year’s Hammond Regional Arts Center’s “Art of the Cocktail” for their Brown-Butter Old Fashioned, a drink that takes two days to prepare. They squeeze their own juices and make all syrups in-house. The talent doesn't stop there as this year GM Julia Cervini won Tangi Lifestyles Best Bartender!