Jason Friedland
Jason Friedland
Director of Culinary Operations
The Hampton Social
A Parker Hospitality Concept
Chef Jason Friedland’s culinary journey ignited at the age of thirteen when he landed his first summer job scooping ice cream. Despite initially studying Mathematics at Michigan State University, his true passion for cooking emerged, leading him to enroll in culinary school at Oakland Community College near Detroit. It only took one day of culinary school for Jason to confirm that becoming a chef was his calling.
Post-culinary school, Friedland honed his skills for seven years at a high-end country club in Bloomington Hills, MI, ascending to the role of Sous Chef. He then ventured to Chicago, where he contributed his culinary expertise to esteemed downtown establishments like Petterino’s, Flemings, and Shikago before finding his place at Weber Grill in 2008.
Starting as the Sous Chef in Schaumburg, Friedland swiftly advanced to Executive Sous Chef in Lombard. By 2011, he was appointed Executive Chef in Schaumburg, later assuming the same role in Lombard and Indianapolis. In July 2014, Jason took on the position he holds today – Executive Chef at the River North location. Remarkably, he stands as the sole chef within the company to have held the Executive Chef position at four distinct Weber Grill locations.
In 2017, Jason transitioned to Francesca’s Restaurant Group, now known as Scott Harris Hospitality, assuming the role of regional chef across various concepts. His culinary journey continued as he joined Parker Hospitality, starting as the Executive Chef in River North in September 2018, progressing to the Regional Culinary Manager in October 2019. Through the challenges posed by the COVID years, Jason demonstrated resilience, taking charge of the entire Illinois and Nashville regions in 2021-2022. In July 2023, he achieved a significant milestone by being promoted to Director of Culinary Operations for the The Hampton Social Brand.
Growing up with a deep appreciation for cooking and grilling – a family tradition in both summer and winter – joining Parker HOspitality felt like a natural fit for Chef Friedland. He values being part of a Chicago-based company and cherishes the familial atmosphere that PH has to offer.
Beyond the kitchen, Jason relishes time with his wife and dogs. His interests span home brewing, golfing, dining out, and, of course, grilling. His joy lies in preparing exceptional meals for family and friends whenever the opportunity arises.
