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hen 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.
Written by Betsy O’Leary Photos by Johnny Chauvin
In 2022, Alfanzo Flores 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 topnotch 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 Enterprise 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.
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