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vandalay brands partners

About Us

Our Story

Back in 2010, the restaurants that would define Vandalay Brands were merely a twinkle in the eye of its founding members. Still, even in the early days, when the effervescent thought of a fish fry at The Dock at Montrose Beach was bandied about, the original ingredients of authenticity, fun environments, and original menus fostered the growth of our restaurant group. Over 15 years later, and an additional nine restaurants added to our roster, these hallmark characteristics remain at the core in every restaurant under the Vandalay umbrella. Our Vandalay restaurants remain true to its original intention of becoming and remaining your local, neighborhood place to enjoy fresh foods, fun atmosphere, and great drinks with your friends and family.

Est. 2010

Vandalay Brands has grown to be known as a Chicago-based restaurant group featuring unique concepts including seafood, Italian, breweries and more. Our passion for creating exceptional dining experiences drives us to constantly innovate and push the boundaries of flavor. We take pride in our team of culinary experts who are dedicated to providing outstanding service and creating memorable experiences for our guests.

At Vandalay Brands, we believe that every dish tells a story, and we invite you to join us on a culinary journey that celebrates the art of food and hospitality.

Timeline of Vandalay Brands

Vandalay Brands Timeline of Restaurant Openings

Our Team

Nicholas Hynes, CEO & Co-Founder

Nicholas J. Hynes

CEO & Co-Founder

Luke Cholodecki, Co-Founder

Luke Cholodecki

Co-Founder & Partner

Mike Chookaszian, Partner_edited.jpg

Mike Chookaszian

Partner

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Josh Schonfeld

COO & Partner

Doug Hart, CFO

Douglas Hart

CFO

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Chef Mauricio Gomez

Culinary Director

Jeff Smith, Director of Operations

Jeff Smith

Director of Operations

Kate Ahern, Director of Marketing

Kate Ahern

Director of Marketing

Maya Kobaslija, Director of Events

Maya Kobaslija

Director of Events

Nicole Tyner, AP & Finance

Nicole Tyner

AP & Finance

Rebecca Perez, HR Manager

Rebecca Perez

HR Manager

Josie Trautwein, Brand Manager & Designer

Josie Trautwein

Brand Manager & Designer

Adri Stacey, Event Manager

Adri Stacey

Events Manager

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