Moline Innovative Chefs

Steve is a globetrotter and speak four languages [English, French, Spanish and Turkish]. His mother is from Turkey and his father spent his career in the Airforce. That exposure to the world influenced his taste buds and his career path.

After receiving his Bachelor’s degree in Restaurant and Hotel Management, Steve pursued his culinary opportunities: Club Med in Copper Mountain, Colorado and Cancun, Mexico; various restaurants throughout the country including cruise dining at Navy Pier in Chicago, Hilton Hotel in Ft. Wayne, Indiana and Hy-Vee catering and Casinos in Peoria and the Quad Cities.

Steve started at Heart of America Group in March of 2000. He has worked at the Machine Shed in Davenport, Iowa; Planted Earth Cafe in Moline, Illinois; and he opened Johnny’s in Moline, Illinois in December of 2002.

Outside of work, Steve teaches culinary students at Scott Community College and enjoys spending time with Marti, his wife of 20 years, sons Dylan [18], Sam[12], and his two cats – Kendall and Macy.

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