Ambar Chicago, the acclaimed restaurant in Chicago’s River North neighborhood that opened in April and is known for its Balkan cuisine, appointed Kevin Girshman Executive Chef. Girshman, who stepped into the role in August, brings a wealth of experience from some of Chicago’s most decorated kitchens and a deep personal connection to the cuisine rooted in his Ukrainian heritage.
Born and raised on Chicago’s North Side, Girshman grew up in a Ukrainian household where food was central but often overlooked in terms of refinement. Inspired to elevate the flavors of his upbringing, he pursued a career in restaurants though initially studying mathematics in college. Without formal culinary training, he learned by immersing himself in kitchens, working his way up from line cook to leadership roles under some of the city’s most respected chefs.
Girshman credits Chef Marcos Campos as a pivotal mentor, having worked alongside him during openings and transformations at celebrated Chicago concepts, including Mama Delia, which rebranded from Black Bull, and one-Michelin-star Porto. His resume also includes time at Michelin-starred restaurants Oriole in the West Loop and Moody Tongue near McCormick Place. After spending a multitude of years studying French, Japanese, and Spanish cuisines, Girshman has returned to the flavors that shaped his childhood. His first executive chef role at Ambar marks a professional milestone.
As executive chef, Girshman oversees every aspect of Ambar’s culinary operations, from ordering and inventory to team leadership and menu development. His approach is defined by a hands-on leadership style, grounded in the belief that he should never ask his team to do something he isn’t willing to do himself. Known for fostering a positive kitchen environment, he emphasizes teamwork, adaptability, and consistency.
“I have always been drawn to restaurants because of the controlled chaos, they’re the only place my energy and creativity could truly thrive,” says Girshman in a prepared statement. “At Ambar, I see the opportunity to elevate, refine, and reintroduce the flavors I grew up with, while pushing the cuisine to a level that earns recognition, ideally even a Bib Gourmand. My focus is on building a kitchen culture grounded in flexibility, teamwork, and joy, because great food only comes from a team that’s inspired and supported.”
“Chef Kevin brings both passion and precision to Ambar,” says Ivan Iričanin, founder and CEO of Street Guys Hospitality, which owns and operates Ambar. “Over a decade of experience across some of Chicago’s most respected kitchens, combined with his personal connection to Eastern European food traditions and the city itself, make him the ideal leader to take our culinary program into its next chapter. We’re thrilled to welcome him and excited for what’s ahead.”
Outside the kitchen, Girshman is an avid soccer fan, following Chelsea through the Champions League and Premier League religiously, and a music enthusiast with a love for punk rock and heavy metal. His Chicago roots, creative spirit, and ambitious drive reflect both the energy of the city and the forward-looking vision of Ambar.
Ambar has several spaces for groups, including rooftops and patios with retractable windows and heating options.
