James Sargent,
Executive Chef
Growing up in a military family, Chef James Sargent has lived all over the world. His travels exposed him to different cultures and cuisines, shaping him into the talented and highly sought after culinary magician he is today.
Chef James’ restaurant career began in Pensacola, Florida, when he was 15. He worked his way up at a Japanese steakhouse, learning the tricks of the Asian fusion food trade. The many twists and turns of his culinary journey brought him to help open Shaka Sushi & Cocktail Bar in April 2019. Chef James was involved from the beginning, helping draw up plans for the restaurant and spearheading menu creation. He takes great pride in serving dishes inspired by what he grew up eating, including fresh fish delivered daily.
Throughout his restaurant career, Chef James has made quite the name for himself. He currently offers in-home private dinners and exceptional catering services for customers along the Florida Panhandle. When he isn’t in the kitchen, he enjoys traveling, hanging out with friends and family, and spending time on the water.
Favorite Shaka dishes: The Bodhi, Kolbi Beef Short Ribs
Anna-Kathryn Taylor
General Manager
Anna-Kathryn Taylor was named general manager of Shaka Sushi & Cocktail Bar in February 2024. The Memphis, Tennessee, native serves as the restaurant’s hospitality specialist responsible for all facets of daily operations.
A Shaka regular since she moved to the 30A area in 2022, Anna-Kathryn is thrilled to be part of the team. She got to know staffers during her many visits to the restaurant and wanted to become part of the establishment's unique world. Prior to relocating to the coast, Anna-Kathryn was a restaurateur in Atlanta, Georgia.
When she is away from work, Anna-Kathryn loves to read and be outside – 30A is the perfect place for doing both! She also enjoys spending time with her lifelong friends who also call the beautiful area home.
Favorite Shaka dishes: Jaws Roll, Morimoto
Kat Smith,
Hospitality Manager
Memphis, Tennessee, native Kat Smith joined the Shaka team in April 2024 and currently serves as its hospitality manager. In her role, she assists with daily restaurant functions and strives to provide every guest with an unforgettable dining experience. Aside from catering to vacationers, Kat is also passionate about creating a homebase for locals, many of which visit regularly thanks to Shaka’s consistency in and dedication to food quality and service.
Prior to joining the Spell Restaurant Group family, Kat spent time with notable Memphis restaurants and private establishments, including the Memphis Hunt and Polo Club, which hosted Prince William and his brother Harry for a wedding in 2014.
When Kat is away from the restaurant, she enjoys riding her bike to the beach and hiking the dunes with her dog Charles.
Favorite Shaka dish: Chef’s Choice with Nigiri and Sashimi