Chris Janowsky literally grew up in kitchens.
The executive chef of Artisan in Elkhart got his culinary career started when he was 16 at Rocky River Tap and Table in Mishawaka. Naturally, Chris was following in his father’s footsteps, as Rocky River is one of several that is part of Navarre Hospitality Group founded by Kurt Janowsky.
Six years later, in 2020, Chris Janowsky earned his first executive chef position at Café Navarre in South Bend. And it wasn’t that much longer before he took over as executive chef of Artisan, Navarre’s flagship restaurant in Elkhart.
On the strength of his considerable culinary gifts and Artisan’s standing as one of only five AAA Four Diamond restaurants in Indiana, Chris Janowsky was invited to participate in Culinary Crossroads’ On the Road Dinner series at Elcona Country Club.
The dinner on March 26, 2024, brought together three of Elkhart County’s top chefs to create a one-of-a-kind meal for 80-plus diners.
Working with Sylvia Awald of West on Warren in Middlebury and Robert Standen, most recently of Ruhe152, the three chefs collaborated on a four-course meal that included dessert as well as four appetizers that were served in an opening reception.
Diners were wowed by Chris Janowsky’s course, branzino with pommes anna, shallot puree, lemon and toasted caper beurre blanc.
The dinner experience highlighted the talented chefs that work in Elkhart County’s kitchens and food service industry, while also helping those in need. In addition to being recognized for their creativity, the chefs selected charities to receive a $500 donation from Culinary Crossroads. Chris Janowsky chose the Community Food Pantry of St. Joseph County.
To enjoy Chris Janowsky’s talents in the kitchen, which carry a focus on French and Italian cuisines, all you need to do is show up at Artisan. The restaurant in downtown Elkhart is open evenings Monday through Saturday. It is founded on the principles of offering “creative, delicious, and beautifully presented food paired with warm, personal service.”