Our Team
John Wilkinson
General Manager
The team at 24 Middleton is thrilled to welcome John Wilkinson as our new General Manager. He brings over two decades of passion and expertise to the role and is excited to become a part of the local community. A Career Built on Culinary Roots John's journey in the hospitality industry began after graduating from Culinary School at Valencia College. This educational foundation quickly led to hands-on experience in the restaurant, starting his career at Bennigan’s and Gator’s Dockside, working his way into fine dining at MoonFish and Charley’s Steak House. He spent years building a robust career in both Orlando and Tampa, mastering the intricacies of restaurant operations and guest service. For the last 10 years in Tampa, John has excelled in various leadership roles, focused on developing strong teams and creating memorable dining experiences. He is now eager to apply that operational knowledge and enthusiasm here, stating, "I am very excited to be part of the 24 Middleton team and look forward to meeting our guests and making this restaurant a true neighborhood favorite." John has called Florida home for the last 20 years—with the last decade spent in Tampa—his roots are in the Midwest. He was born and raised in Ann Arbor, MI, and still holds a strong allegiance to the Detroit Lions! In February, John married Vanessa, his partner of 10 years. In his downtime, he enjoys unwinding with a round of golf, spending quality time with his wife and dog, and keeping active by running.
Brianna Santiago
Executive Chef
Chef Brianna Santiago is a Central Florida native whose passion for cooking began long before she ever stepped into a professional kitchen. Growing up side-by-side with her father who is also a chef, learning the rhythms, discipline, and joy of kitchen life. His guidance and example not only shaped her skills but also inspired the dedication and work ethic that define her career today. Her food tells a story of family tradition, and modern culinary expression.
A 2021 graduate of The Villages Charter School, Chef Brianna began honing her craft early, embracing both classical techniques and the bold, soulful flavors of her Puerto Rican and Italian heritage.
Bri continues to volunteer in the Culinary Arts program at The Villages Charter School, mentoring students and supporting young chefs as they begin their own journeys—just as her father once guided hers. Her dedication to community and education reflects her belief that the culinary world isn’t just a career, but a legacy worth passing on.
Christina Hardison
Assistant General Manager
Christina's hospitality career started the moment she was old enough to clock in. A host at 16, a server at 18, behind the bar at 21—and at every stop, the same thing kept happening: someone noticed, and she got promoted. By 21 she was managing the bar at Florida State's University Center Club inside Doak Campbell Stadium, and in Dallas she rose from Front of House Manager to General Manager, transforming a struggling restaurant into a flagship and training the next generation of managers across an entire organization. When 24 Middleton called, she recognized something rare in the people here—and made the leap without hesitation.
Spend five minutes with Christina and you'll learn two things: there is always music playing, and she's always up for something new. R&B, jazz, Afrobeats, Latin—for her, music isn't background noise, it's how she experiences the world. She'll never turn down an unfamiliar street, a new city, or a new restaurant, because she believes a great meal is one of the most human experiences there is. "I've never regretted saying yes to something new," she says. "That mindset has shaped who I am, how I lead, and everything I put on the table—literally."
At the center of it all is her son, Apollo—her greatest motivation and her favorite dance partner. Some of her best memories are the two of them just moving in the kitchen, no reason needed. That kind of joy is what she carries into every room she walks into. Hospitality, for Christina, has always been personal.
Brandon Johnson
Bar Captain
A native of Broward County, FL, has taken on the role of Bar Manager at 24 Middleton. His professional journey is marked by a deep and diverse background in the culinary arts, which he now seamlessly integrates with his passion for mixology. This unique blend of expertise makes him an exceptionally valuable asset to the establishment. Brandon’s culinary roots provide him with an innate understanding of flavors, ingredients, and the art of presentation—principles he applies diligently to the creation of innovative and enticing drink menus. His ability to craft cocktails that complement the restaurant's dishes, or stand alone as remarkable creations, stems from years of honing his skills in kitchens and behind bars. This comprehensive approach ensures that the beverage program at 24 Middleton is an integral part of the overall dining experience, reflecting the same commitment to quality and creativity found in the food offerings. Brandon’s presence is expected to attract patrons eager to experience his unique take on both classic and contemporary libations.
Amanda Valderrama
Special Events & Social Media Coordinator
Amanda learned hospitality from what she considers the best seat in the house—behind the bar. While bartending her way through college at the University of Central Florida, her work ethic and knack for keeping all the moving pieces together opened an unexpected door into event planning. In the decade since, she's coordinated a wide array of events, including rehearsal dinners, tastings, holiday parties, grand openings, golf outings, and travel experiences around the Central Florida area.
Born in Ocala and raised across Marion and Sumter counties, Amanda is Puerto Rican American and a fellow graduate of The Villages Charter School. She earned her Communications degree from UCF in 2017, and with a background in marketing for local businesses within and around The Villages, she brings a marketer's eye and an event coordinator's instincts to everything she touches—giving the same care to a brand story as she does to a well-executed event.
Ask Amanda what she loves most about 24 Middleton and she'll tell you it's the heart. It's something you can feel — in the staff, in the love that goes into every plate, and in a team that genuinely cares for one another. When she's not at the restaurant, Amanda is happiest outdoors — near the water, at a campsite, or on a trail with her dogs — though she'll never turn down an invite to a concert or a good movie night.
Taylor Eberlein
Administrative Assistant & Service Ambassador
A cornerstone of hospitality and consistency, Taylor has been with owners JT and Jordan since the very beginning — from the early days of The Anglers Club, where she helped set the tone for what true guest connection feels like, to the evolution and success of Ednas' on the Green, where her leadership and service standards helped elevate the experience to new heights. Now, as part of the opening team at 24 Middleton, Taylor brings that same passion, precision, and professionalism that have defined her journey from day one.
Her deep understanding of what it means to deliver service with warmth, intention, and excellence is matched only by her commitment to team mentorship and creating memorable guest moments.
A proud local, Taylor grew up in the surrounding communities and has strong roots in The Villages area, where she’s built lasting relationships both personally and professionally. All the while, she’s balanced her demanding career with the joy and responsibility of raising her young son, embodying the kind of strength, grace, and work ethic that inspire everyone around her.
At 24 Middleton, Taylor continues to be a guiding presence — ensuring every guest interaction reflects the heart, history, and high standards that define the restaurant’s identity.
