On Tuesday, February 17, 2026, the Kalkounos family and the Chicago Prime Restaurants family lost a true legend. George A. Kalkounos—beloved founder, visionary restaurateur, and devoted family patriarch—passed away at the age of 75, peacefully in the loving arms of his wife, Maggie Kalkounos.
George’s story was the embodiment of the American Dream. Emigrating from Greece first to Brooklyn, New York, and later to Chicago, Illinois, he began with little more than determination and faith. Through tireless work in restaurant kitchens and dining rooms, he built not only a career but a legacy defined by excellence, resilience, and heartfelt hospitality.
Over the decades, George’s remarkable ownership journey included beloved establishments such as Chicago Prime Steakhouse, Chicago Prime Italian, Five O’Clock Steakhouse, Statesons, K George’s, Prime Table, Germania Club, Bristol Court Banquets, Avalon Banquets, and Avante Banquets. To George, guests were never just customers—they were friends welcomed into his extended family. His warmth, presence, and unmistakable passion for fine dining left a lasting impression on everyone who walked through his doors.
Though his family grieves deeply, George wished not for sorrow but for celebration—celebration of a life dedicated to service, entrepreneurship, mentorship, and love. His influence lives on through the countless team members he guided, the guests he embraced, and the family he cherished above all else.
In honor of his enduring commitment to hospitality, the family invites those wishing to pay tribute to consider supporting the George A. Kalkounos – Chicago Prime Restaurants Endowed Scholarship Fund at Harper Community College, established to inspire and support future culinary and hospitality professionals.
Services
Sunday, February 22, 2026
Wake | 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Ahlgrim & Sons Funeral and Cremation Services LTD.
330 W. Golf Road, Schaumburg, IL 60195
(847) 882-5580
Monday, February 23, 2026
Wake | 10:00 AM
Funeral Liturgy | 11:00 AM
Interment | 12:00 PM
St. Nectarios Greek Orthodox Church & Community Center
133 S. Roselle Rd., Palatine, IL 60067
(847) 358-5170
George A. Kalkounos leaves behind a legacy of excellence, generosity, and unwavering belief in opportunity. His spirit will forever live on in the restaurants he built, the lives he shaped, and the family he loved so deeply. May his memory be eternal.