Libby Burk
Common Thread | Savannah, GA
NOVEMBER 2024
After dropping out of college, where she was pursuing a degree in music, Libby Burk found a home in hospitality. Working as a concierge at a bed and breakfast, she was excited by the opportunity to connect with guests and fell in love with the industry. Soon after, she landed a role as the maître d' at The Grey before being promoted to floor manager. While taking care of guests, planning private events, and overseeing training, Burk was inspired by The Grey’s wine director Scott Waldrup, who quickly became her mentor and friend. Connecting over their background in the performing arts, Burk learned all about the restaurant’s old-world wine list from Waldrup, tasting, training, and developing a fascination with obscure wine regions along the way. In 2017, Waldrup suddenly passed away, and Burk inherited his wine books, diligent notes, and old menus.
After leaving The Grey, Burk was approached by Chef Kyle Jacovino to join the opening team at 1540 Room at The DeSoto Savannah, helping with wine training while working as the lead server. In 2018, she went to work at Husk. Over the next three years, Burk was exposed to new responsibilities in the front of house, created strong relationships with guests and regulars, and studied wine intensely. Before Common Thread opened, Burk went in for an interview and, enamored by the historic building, took on her first official wine job at the restaurant. Now, as wine director and general manager, she concentrates on highlighting indigenous varietals while investing in the education of her staff through weekly wine training and by-the-glass tastings. Beyond regular service, Burk also oversees the wine list at Strange Bird and Wildflower Cafe, hosts special wine dinners at the restaurant, and runs a local wine club.
2024 StarChefs Charleston-Savannah Rising Stars Award Winner
