By WMBD TV
BLOOMINGTON – It all happened so fast for Zakkary Yuhasz. He joined Fort Jesse Cafe two years ago as a line chef, got promoted to head chef shortly after, and now in the new year, he’s a part of the ownership team.
“I always envisioned us starting in some half where we didn’t feel like we would have as much potential success to step in,” Yuhasz said. “Jesse’s is an absolute blessing for us to join a team already so successful, so embraced by the community is more than what anyone could ask for.”
The cafe has become a staple in Bloomington in the last couple of decades. They shared on their Facebook page that, while ownership was changing, the cafe was going nowhere. The community was elated.
“I think it’s more of a challenge. Obviously, there’s high expectations. So many people love this place. It’s always more of a reason to continue to expand what this restaurant has to offer for the community,” Yuhasz said.
The new regime is a labor of love. Yuhasz is teaming up with existing owners Keegan and Michael. His wife runs the social media accounts. His brother manages the finances. For Yuhasz, being the boss is a legacy fulfilled.
“My grandfather was an Irish immigrant to Chicago and opened a business in the center of the community for the Irish community it was a big thing. It was almost a parallel of what Jesse is for a lot of folks,” Yuhasz said.
One thing for certain that will remain the same: the food. Yuhasz looks forward to the challenge of creating new dishes to keep customers coming back and also attract new business in Bloomington.
“My favorite dish is the next one. My favorite dish is the one that I have not had. We have talks with working with local artists to display new things — we’re eager to get involved and have a look back to normal,” Yuhasz said.
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