Rocco Whalen: Renowned Cleveland Chef; Owner of Fahrenheit Restaurants; A Homer & Uplifter of Others

"I'm a homer," Chef Rocco Whalen contends to start off episode 79 of Chats with Clark! Born and raised in the suburbs of Cleveland, Ohio, Rocco was always in the kitchen with his grandma and his mom, learning the ins and outs of making dishes that were both delicious and filling. 

Moreover, Rocco learned the importance of sitting down for family dinners and chatting about anything and everything. So much so that Rocco is adamant that the world's problems would be better solved around the dinner table with a great meal and perhaps some good bourbon. 

This recognition of the humanity of one another is what has allowed for Rocco to excel throughout his career and life. After his initial training under the beloved women in his life, Rocco studied and practiced under the great Wolfgang Puck out in Phoenix, Las Vegas, and the west coast. 

At merely twenty-four-years-old, Rocco went all in on himself and opened Fahrenheit in the Tremont neighborhood back home in Cleveland. During the initial opening year of the restaurant, Rocco received praise from Gourmet magazine (and others) and began creating a significant name for himself around the city. 

Instead of a cut-throat approach, Rocco believed in the value of collaboration, which is what compelled Chef Rocco Whalen to befriend and learn from Cleveland staple chef Michael Symon. Like advised by Wolfgang, Rocco furthered his name for himself by being a chef that visited the tables and ensured that his restaurant attendees were always satisfied. 

Again, person-to-person connection is a value that Rocco has embodied from his youth. 

Fahrenheit is thriving with Rocco at the helm because of the full-circle approach. Tune in to hear how Rocco Whalen is using all of the best ingredients both in his food and in the environment to create top notch experiences for all who enter. 

Rocco is one of those people whose energy is felt when he is in the room. He's a mover. See for yourself in episode 79, and after you watch, you'll be on the phone with Fahrenheit for a reservation. 

Check out more from Rocco Whalen and Chats with Clark on social media by visiting the links below!
Rocco Whalen
Fahrenheit Cleveland and Fahrenheit Charlotte
Chats with Clark
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Thank you for checking out episode 79 of the "Chats with Clark" Podcast!

If there is any content that YOU would like to hear featured or would like to set up an interview time, email me your questions, thoughts, or ideas by emailing chatswithclark@gmail.com!