Chicago Food Magazine Shines a Spotlight on Chef Harootunian
- Dec 22, 2021
- 2 min read
CFM took some time with our Executive Chef Jonathan Harootunian to pick his brain!
If you ever wanted to know what motivates and inspires our Chef, be sure to give this a read!
"Jonathan Harootunian, took over the helm of the eclectic Fulton Market Kitchen in May 2021. Reflecting the venue's artistic atmosphere, Chef Harootunian created a menu that fit the concept of the eccentric space and restaurant. Diners can enjoy his whimsy creations every night of the week for happy hour, dinner, including a special five-course Tuesday Tasting menu and weekend brunch. We recently chatted with Chef to find out what led to this unique opportunity, what inspires his dishes and what he likes to do on those rare days off.
CFM: What led up to your new position as Executive Chef at Fulton Market Kitchen and what attracted you to the unique environment?
JH: After the opportunity presented itself, I realized that the dining room and the concept was well suited for myself and the way I cook. I still possess a high level of passion and drive for cooking, and I try to give that back to the younger generation so they can feel that excitement/passion/drive.
I felt as though it is one of the most unique concepts in the city. Unlike any other formal/informal restaurant in the city. It is part gallery, part cocktail bar, and a kitchen. There is also a line of artists that come through these doors. I felt that it would be the perfect environment for me in regards to what I like to do and how I present my food. CFM: What is the inspiration behind your menu?
JH: I always try to make sure there is something for everyone on the menu, it fits with the concept of the restaurant, offers a bit of sense of whimsy, and that it is like the space: eclectic. We present a variety of different regions and flavors encapsulated on the menu.
CFM: What are a few of your favorite dishes?
JH: The Tomato Watermelon Feta Salad which is fresh and simple, (Sassafras-Braised) Short Rib, (Ghee Roasted) Cauliflower - bold and intense Indian flavors but not overly invasive, appeals to many people.
CFM: What’s in store/your vision for the near and distant future of FMK?
JH: To constantly keep moving forward in a direction of cuisine that emulates the philosophy of FMK.
CFM: On a more leisurely note, how do you like to spend your days off?
JH: Play guitar, dine out, sleep and cook.
CFM: Where are some of your favorite restaurants and/or bars in Chicago?
JH: Cruz Blanca, Etta and Taquizo.
CFM: Are there any places you would love to check out that you haven’t been able to get to yet?
JH: Yes, the list is way too long to mention them all.
CFM: If you could have your own restaurant concept anywhere in the world, where and what would it be?
JH: It would be a 12-seat Japanese ramen restaurant on a tropical island, where the pace of life is much slower and the weather is nice."
This was a really engaging and insightful read! It’s always fascinating to see how a chef’s personality and environment shape their food, and Chef Jonathan’s passion truly comes through. zelis provider portal registration The idea of blending art, atmosphere, and cuisine into one cohesive experience makes Fulton Market Kitchen sound incredibly unique. His focus on creating an eclectic menu with something for everyone—while still adding that touch of whimsy—is especially impressive. Those dishes sound amazing too, especially the creative combination in the Tomato Watermelon Feta Salad and the bold flavors of the ghee roasted cauliflower. Definitely makes you want to visit and experience it firsthand!
Delta Comfort Plus includes extra legroom, giving travelers more space to stretch and relax throughout the flight. Passengers also receive priority boarding, allowing them to settle in early and secure overhead bin space with ease.
In addition, what does Delta Comfort Plus include extends to complimentary premium snacks and a wider selection of beverages, including beer, wine, and spirits on most routes. Travelers can also enjoy enhanced in-flight entertainment options and dedicated overhead bin space for added convenience.
Couples Halloween costumes are not just outfits, they’re part of the whole experience. I love how they bring a unique twist to Halloween. Couples Halloween costumes make events more fun.
There was an interesting comment I stumbled upon in a late-night thread where someone compared different gaming platforms not by their offerings, but by how mentally “light” they feel to use. The idea was that a well-designed club doesn’t overwhelm you but gradually guides your interaction without friction. That perspective shifted how I look at these platforms entirely. In that context, https://slotcity.ua/ was mentioned as a place where transitions between sections feel natural rather than forced. No exaggerated claims, just a reflection based on experience. It read less like advice and more like someone sharing what actually worked for them.
Superb post. I have already said that you are a great author. Thanks for sharing this kind of content. You may discover more about Breeze Airways Orlando Office was really impressed with their expanding network and affordable routes. Travelers can contact the office for assistance with flight reservations, ticket changes, baggage policies, and special travel requests. Whether flying for business or leisure, the Breeze Airways Orlando Office serves as a dependable point of contact where passengers can manage bookings and receive professional, personalized travel assistance before departure.