Darryl Harmon
Executive Chef

From a young age, Darryl Harmon’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.

At 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. 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.

Under his leadership, the Water Works Restaurant and Lounge has received numerous accolades including Best Restaurant. Chef Harmon also received the ACF’s Professional Chef’s Association of South Jersey 2008 Chef of the Year Award.