Executive Chef Robert Barker

Houston-born Robert Barker always knew that he would cook.  "Food," he says, "is the centerpiece for me. Our rambling, extended family gets together for holidays and we cook up a continuous two or three-day food fest beginning with visits to the farmers' markets and grocery stores, and ending with soups and gumbos from the leftovers.  That's what it is all about. We're together cooking, eating and laughing."

At Miss Pearl's Jam House, Barker will introduce a relatively new style of cuisine on the culinary landscape: New World Island-inspired fare that transports you to the sandy beaches and aquamarine waters of your last vacation. The food at this new Oakland restaurant is exciting and dynamic with throwbacks to the original Miss Pearl's such as Crispy Catfish Fingers, Black Eye Pea Fritters, and Jumbo Sea Scallops in a Potato Crust. New items include Island Gazpacho and tongue-in-cheek additions like the Mini Skirts with Nice Buns (skirt steak sliders). Barker will have a few of these playful items sprinkled throughout the menu – because dining out should be a fun, enjoyable experience with delicious food and great ambience to bring it all together. Learn More »

Chef Joey Altman

Joey Altman, the original founding chef of Miss Pearl's in 1989, is back to consult with Executive Chef Robert Barker, creating a menu reminiscent of the old favorites but sporting updates for the modern palate, adding to the already vibrant atmosphere of Miss Pearl's.

An accomplished San Francisco based Chef, Altman's repertoire includes Television Host, Cookbook Author, Restaurant Consultant, Food & Wine Educator, and Public Speaker. His extensive and impressive career is founded in an early background of exposure to cooking and show business. Learn More »