Darryl Harmon
Executive Chef,
The Water Works Restaurant and Lounge

With American Indian, African American, German and Irish genes, Darryl Harmon’s ethnicity is almost indefinable, 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.

Darryl grew up working in the family’s dairy, gardens and farms. His favorite job, making deliveries to local shops and restaurants, allowed him special access into their kitchens and the chance to taste unfamiliar flavors and cuisines. For someone deeply and innately intrigued by the world of food, this experience was invaluable. So, after graduating high school and heading out to make a name for himself, it was no surprise that Darryl chose to pursue a culinary career.

At just 18, Darryl left for Atlantic City with his sister, taking a job as a line server 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 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. But after ten years working in casinos, he had already been named Vice President of the American Culinary Federation of South Jersey and 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 seemed to align 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. And 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 and Lounge.

Darryl has created a menu that reflects the blend of cultures found in the City of Brotherly Love and his own family. His fun-loving attitude and dedication to mentoring others have built a sense of camaraderie in the back of the house. While no longer in New Jersey, Darryl has found his new home in Philadelphia and is an essential member of the Water Works family.