James Sullivan

President, Pearl Restaurant Group

Born and raised in Rye, NY, Jim Sullivan grew up in a family that relished great food, cooking, get-togethers, travel and hospitality. He spent much of his childhood eating, visiting near and far-off places, and sowing the seeds for his future passion for food, wine, and a successful career in the hospitality industry.
 
In 1985, at age 27, Jim launched Rye Grill & Bar, pioneering a new breed of American eatery pairing imaginative food and wine with caring hospitality, comfortable surroundings and outstanding value. In 1994, Jim opened Lexington Square Café, offering refined American cuisine in a historic landmark building.
 
In late 1998, Jim welcomed guests to yet two more restaurants, Ruby's Oyster Bar & Bistro and Heathcote Tavern. After 12 fulfilling years, Heathcote Tavern closed its doors in December of 2010.
 
In spring 2002, USHG opened Blue Smoke and Jazz Standard, offering mouthwatering real pit barbecue and world-class live jazz. In the summer of 2004, USHG launched Shake Shack, a modern-day roadside burger stand. Since then, new Shake Shack locations have opened across the east coast and internationally.