Philippe Placé brings his high-end hospitality expertise, engaging yet professional service style, and affable sense of humor to his multifaceted role as Co-Founder and Operation Officer at Southerleigh Hospitality Group. His acumen for restaurant operations became evident during his tenure at prestigious hotel restaurants in London and his native France, where he often oversaw service for royalty, including the Queen of England, Princess Diana, and the King of Belgium.
He relocated to the United States in 1997 and a few years later, settled in San Antonio, Texas, where he further finessed his front-of-house skills at acclaimed institutions, supported openings for star chefs like Stephen Pyles, and opened his own restaurant, Coco Chocolate Lounge and Bistro. He was recruited by Chef Jeff Balfour to oversee customer service for the opening of Southerleigh Fine Food & Brewing, where he has earned a reputation for his charming smile, friendly demeanor, and penchant for entertaining. His memory for guest preferences and details enables him to develop authentic connections with the local community.
As Southerleigh Hospitality Group has evolved, Placé has attracted media attention for his above-and-beyond approach to service, and San Antonio Magazine profiled him as “the pinnacle of restaurant hospitality.” Throughout his many endeavors, Placé has remained steadfast in his aspiration to foster connection under the umbrella of hospitality, creating warm, enjoyable dining experiences for guests and a convivial working environment for his team.
