Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Spill-Chaples.
Hi Jessica, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I got my start in the hospitality industry at just 17, working as a hostess. It was supposed to be just a part-time job to make some money before going off to college. But not long after my 18th birthday, everything changed. One hectic night, the restaurant was short-staffed, and I was suddenly thrown onto the floor as a server. I had no idea what I was doing—but I loved it.
That night sparked something in me. It wasn’t long before I transitioned behind the bar, learning to bartend while juggling college classes. I ended up bartending throughout my time at university and even for a while afterward. I had majored in Criminology—an entirely different world—but it became clear that my true passion was in hospitality. There was something about the energy, the chaos, and the ever-changing cast of people that kept me hooked.
As I gained more experience, I found myself drawn not only to the front of house but also to the back—the flow of the kitchen, the systems behind the scenes, and even the accounting. It all fascinated me. Naturally, I stepped into a management role, where I could finally have a hand in every part of the operation.
Eventually, I was approached with the opportunity to open my own restaurant. For me, it was a no-brainer.
I met with the landlord (who would eventually become my business partner) of the historic bank building in Pompano Beach, and immediately, the place spoke to me. When I began researching its history—especially the infamous Ashley Gang, who robbed the bank back in 1924—I knew I had found the heart of the concept. That’s when The Vault was born.
What started as a job at 17 became a career, a calling, and eventually, a dream realized.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I can’t say it has been smooth sailing. The construction phase of the restaurant was not something I was prepared for but now I know so much about it and I think that will be very helpful down the road.
I also never in my wildest dreams thought we would be as busy as we are so early on and staffing hasn’t been the easiest.
Not to mention I was also 5 months pregnant when we opened! 😁 Luckily for me I have the most supportive husband and parents! Not to mention an amazing staff!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
The Vault at Old Town Pompano is a 1920s themed restaurant located in the oldest commercial structure in Pompano Beach. The building was the first bank in Pompano Beach opened in 1922 and robbed by the infamous Ashley Gang in 1924. We actually have the original vault from the 1920s that was gifted to us by the Pompano Beach Historical Society.
Our “Giggle Water” menu is full of old school cocktails made with a today’s touch like the Bee’s Knees which uses hot honey or the Old Fashion Old Fashioned which calls for sugar cubes. The Giggle Water menu also has very popular signature cocktails such as the Flapper’s Fizz or The Big Cheese.
Our food menu is also centered around that 1920s theme. We serve American, Italian, and Asian inspired dishes, all made fresh and in house. Our small plates, which comprise most of the menu, are available in solo or shareable portions, which people love. We also offer a monthly “speakeasy” menu with rotating specials. Some of our most popular offerings are the Downtown Crab Rangoons, Meatballs a la Old Town, “Upthegrove” Shrimp Cakes, Smashed Broccoli, Laura’s Croissant Sandwich, Short Rib Egg Rolls, Orange Chicken, and John’s Shrimp Bowl. But the star of the show has to be the First Bank Smash Burger. We actually won the People’s Choice Award in the Boca Burger Battle this year for this burger.
Oh and I can’t forget about our house-made desserts!
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
I have zero background in decorating or design but I actually designed the entire restaurant. I picked out the kitchen equipment layout, light fixtures, flooring, wallpaper, designed the 1920s appropriate bathrooms, and even picked the inspiration for the 3 murals in the restaurant. That part of the construction I loved.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.vaultpompano.com
- Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/vaultpompano
- Facebook: The Vault at Old Town Pompano
- Yelp: http://yelp.to/WcTUKhlzGf
- TikTok: http://www.tiktok.com/@thevaultpompano
Image Credits
Lindsey Todd or Meagan McIntyre
