Episode 56 - Building a Culinary Empire—One Block at a Time with Jonathan Kavourakis Artwork

Behind the Counter with the Food Czar

Behind the Counter with the Food Czar explores the stories of people who create community through their work and passion. Each episode features conversations with restaurant owners, influencers, charity leaders, and others making an impact in their neighborhoods.From building businesses to giving back, guests share their personal journeys, challenges, and successes. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a community supporter, or just someone who loves hearing inspiring stories, this podcast offers meaningful conversations about connection, resilience, and the power of people coming together.

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Behind the Counter with the Food Czar

Episode 56 - Building a Culinary Empire—One Block at a Time with Jonathan Kavourakis

September 02, 2025 • Heidi Blum

0:00 | 1:00:33

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This week, we’re joined by Chef and Restaurateur Jonathan Kavourakis, a Jersey native whose unconventional path to success is as inspiring as it is impressive. Raised in Livingston, NJ in a vibrant Greek and Jewish household, Jonathan found his footing not in the classroom—but in the kitchen.

Starting out in classic New Jersey diners alongside his father, a head baker, Jonathan’s love for food was forged through real-world experience. Culinary school in NYC wasn’t quite the right fit, but an internship led him to the kitchen at Daniel, and everything changed. From there, his career exploded—with roles at Commerce, Stanton Social, Beauty & Essex, and eventually launching NYC hotspot Vandal.

After a stint in Miami cut short by the pandemic, Jonathan returned to Jersey and turned a Bloomfield block into a dining destination—opening The Brookdale, Fanny’s Italian, and Ladyfingers Bakery & Bar. And he’s not stopping anytime soon.

Up next: Luckyfish, a sushi concept launching at Fort Monmouth with a Michelin-star chef and a bold vision that promises to shake up New Jersey’s dining scene.

We dive into the highs, the pivots, the late nights, and the lessons—plus the grounding force of his wife and kids. Jonathan’s story is proof that taking chances, trusting your instincts, and never slowing down can lead to something pretty extraordinary.

Follow Jonathan: @chefbigsexy

Follow The Brookdale: @thebrookdalenj

Follow Fanny's Italian: @fannysitalian

Follow LadyFingers: @ladyfingersbakeryandbar

Follow Lucky Fish: @luckyfish.sushi

Recording Location: Fanny's Italian, Bloomfield NJ

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to follow, leave a review and share it with a friend. And you can follow me @heidiblum_foodczar on instagram for more behind-the-scenes content, updates and more.

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