Orlando
Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando
The Team
Great people who know how to make every guest feel at home are the difference between a restaurant and an enduring tradition. Learn more about the familiar faces that bring your Palm to life.
Leonidas Papkalos
General Manager
For Leonidas Papakalos, hospitality has always been a way of life. Born and raised in Montreal in a proud Greek family, he grew up surrounded by the traditions of great food, meaningful conversation, and making others feel welcome. Those values shaped his approach to both life and leadership, teaching him that the best hospitality comes from treating every guest with genuine warmth and care. As a father, Leonidas brings that same spirit of connection and attentiveness to everyone who walks through The Palm's doors.
As General Manager of The Palm Orlando, Leonidas is dedicated to upholding the restaurant’s legendary heritage while creating memorable experiences through exceptional service, authentic hospitality, and attention to detail. He believes every guest should leave feeling like family, whether they are celebrating a special occasion, hosting clients, or simply enjoying a night out. When he’s away from the restaurant, Leonidas enjoys spending quality time with his family, the people who continue to inspire his passion for bringing others together.
Kendall Jacobson
Sales & Events Manager
Kendall Jacobson joined The Palm and Landry’s in March 2025 as Sales & Events Manager. A lifelong Orlando resident, Kendall developed an early appreciation for hospitality through her mother’s career in restaurant sales and many memorable family dinners at The Palm.
Before joining the team, she served as Sales Manager for Rodizio Grill, supporting multiple western-market locations before returning home to Orlando. Kendall is passionate about creating meaningful, memorable events and believes that thoughtful personal touches are what transform a gathering into a lasting experience. Outside of work, she grew up riding horses and competed collegiately in equestrian events
Daryl Monroe
Executive Chef
Daryl Monroe is a Southern-style soul food chef whose culinary roots are deeply grounded in country cooking and a passion for bringing people together through food. Born in Lake City, Florida, he discovered his love for cooking at an early age while watching his grandmother prepare family meals. Her time in the kitchen taught him not only the techniques behind beloved Southern dishes, but also the comfort, connection, and sense of community that great food creates.
Throughout his career, Daryl has built a diverse culinary portfolio, gaining experience across a variety of kitchen styles and cuisines while remaining true to his Southern heritage. These experiences have shaped his philosophy that food is a universal language and a gateway to the soul. As Executive Chef, he approaches every dish as an act of love, striving to create memorable dining experiences that bring people together, foster meaningful connections, and leave a lasting impression long after the meal is finished.