Rikki Alderton, General Manager
Rikki Alderton joined the Shades team as a server in 2016, working her way up to become General Manager in 2024. Over the years, she’s done just about everything a team member can do here at Shades except cook!
In her current role, the Georgia native ensures all guests have an excellent experience, while also providing a safe and respectful environment for her staff and patrons. Rikki truly loves working at Shades because of the consistency and room for growth it provides, its family atmosphere, loyal guests and hard-working staff, of course.
Rikki’s favorite Shades offerings are the Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings paired with any Suerte Tequila cocktail. Be sure to give both a try during your next visit. When she’s not at Shades, Rikki enjoys going to concerts, festivals and amusement parks. And, since she’s a foodie gal, she also loves traveling to new places to try local bites and booze.
Corey Jordan, Asst. General Manager
& Bar Manager
Corey Jordan joined the Shades team in 2017 as a server and transitioned to bartender eight months later after discovering his passion for creating delicious drinks for guests. In July 2023, he was named Bar Manager and took on the role of Assistant General Manager, as well, in February 2024. Corey’s main duties are to motivate the team, instill the importance of guest service and experience, create new cocktails, and order beer and spirits.
Prior to Shades, Corey served as a United States Marine and worked as an intern for a defense contractor, where he spent time alongside very bright and innovative minds. He also had stints as a cabana boy and banana boat captain, as many beach lovers do!
If he had to choose, Corey would pick the Salmon Pad Thai with extra chili oil as his favorite Shades dish. When he’s not at the restaurant, he enjoys fishing, exploring with his dogs, beach days with his crew, cheering on his favorite sports teams and creating new cocktails.
Rob Hurst, Executive Chef
Rob Hurst has been Shades’ executive chef since 2018. The Panama City Beach resident holds an associate of arts degree in computer science and software engineering, plus an associate of science degree in culinary management – both of which play a role in helping him succeed in the industry.
As executive chef, Rob creates new and innovative dishes, ensures food quality and health code standards are met, and handles all of the day-to-day kitchen operations. His favorite part about working at Shades is the family atmosphere he experiences while on the job and the opportunity to create memorable experiences for guests. Prior to joining Shades, Rob worked for By the Sea Resorts as an assistant food and beverage director.
Rob’s favorite dish? Pan Seared Redfish paired with the House Margarita. His hobbies include working out, spending time with family, relaxing on the beach, and of course, cooking!