Executive Chef, The Water Works Restaurant And Lounge

With Native American, African American, German and Irish genes, Darryl Harmon’s ethnicity is multi-faceted, making him a genuine example of Philadelphia’s melting pot culture.

From a very young age, Darryl’s mother, a certified cooking superstar in the South Jersey community where he grew up, taught him how to turn homegrown fruits and vegetables into all sorts of delectable dishes and desserts. And although he is quick to declare the women in his family as the inspiration behind his burgeoning culinary career, Darryl’s father, a local pastor, also owned and operated a dairy farm, and his grandfather made and bottled his own wine.

At just 18, Darryl left for Atlantic City taking an entry-level position in a casino restaurant. A hardworking, natural talent, Darryl’s passion to succeed and all-around good nature, earned him several fast promotions. He quickly rose through the ranks, while attending culinary school, from a Line Cook at Bally’s to sous chef at Trump Taj Mahal to Director of Food & Beverage at Omni Catering. Before he knew it, Darryl was managing kitchen staffs of 100 or more and overseeing multi-million dollar food revenues. After ten years of working in casinos, and being named Vice President of the American Culinary Federation of South Jersey, Darryl was ready for his next challenge.

In 2007, when a friend of his family introduced him to Michael Karloutsos, owner of the Water Works Restaurant And Lounge, the stars aligned for Darryl.

Karloutsos, whose father also happens to be an ordained minister, was immediately impressed by Darryl’s character and strong sense of family, the same qualities that are at the foundation of his landmark restaurant in Philadelphia. After tasting his work, Karloutsos confirmed that the two were a match made in heaven by offering him the job as Executive Chef of The Water Works Restaurant & Lounge.

Under his leadership, the Water Works Restaurant and Lounge has received numerous accolades including Best Restaurant. Chef Harmon also received the ACF’s 2008 Chef of the year award.