Honoring the Legacy of Hospitality Leader George A. Kalkounos

Family, friends, and colleagues are continuing to honor the life and legacy of George A. Kalkounos through memorial gifts to the George A. Kalkounos – Chicago Prime Restaurants Endowed Scholarship at Harper College, continuing a tradition of opportunity, mentorship, and service to others that defined his career.

On Tuesday, February 17, 2026, the Kalkounos and Chicago Prime family lost their founder and patriarch when George passed away at the age of 75. A respected restaurateur, George leaves behind a legacy rooted in sacrifice, hard work, resilience, and a sharp sense of humor delivered with charming warmth. George’s journey began in Greece and continued through Brooklyn, New York, and Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, before leading him to Chicago, where he built a life and family in hospitality. Like many immigrants, he carried a deep faith in the American Dream. He discovered his calling in restaurants early and went on to establish and lead some of the region’s most recognized establishments, including The Prime Table, Bristol Court Banquets, Avalon Banquets, Chicago Prime Steakhouse, Five O’Clock Steakhouse, Chicago Prime Italian, Avante Banquets, and other ventures. Central to his journey was his supportive and dynamic wife, Maggie Kalkounos, who built both a family and a business in hospitality. Her work ethic and steady presence were foundational to that growth and remain an enduring part of the legacy.

The Kalkounos family chose to honor his memory through gifts to his namesake scholarship at Harper College, with tax-deductible memorial contributions. Established in 2014, the George A. Kalkounos – Chicago Prime Restaurants Endowed Scholarship has already supported 13 Harper students pursuing careers in hospitality and related fields.

Andy-John G. Kalkounos, George’s son and a Harper College Distinguished Alumnus, shared the special impact of these tribute gifts.

“Dad’s legacy continues through the students who realize their dreams through the hospitality industry,” said Andy-John. “He believed deeply in hard work and creating opportunity for others. Through this scholarship, students of all ages will be able to build meaningful careers in a business that celebrates life’s special moments.”

Through these memorial gifts, George’s passion for service to others continues to open doors for future generations, ensuring his commitment to excellence, opportunity, and service remains a lasting part of the Harper College legacy.