Jaret Havanchak 

Executive Chef / Owner

For self-proclaimed family man and restaurateur Jaret Havanchak, food is about far more than what’s on the plate—it’s about family, community, and connection.

A resident of Chardon, Ohio, Havanchak’s passion for cooking began early. At just five years old, he was harvesting vegetables from his grandmother’s garden, and he spent much of his childhood alongside his mother in the kitchen. By 15, he had landed his first restaurant job, setting the foundation for a lifelong career in the culinary arts.

Havanchak graduated from the Pennsylvania Culinary Institute in 2001 and went on to refine his craft under French-inspired Chef Rick Boyer at the white-tablecloth restaurant Wright’s in Phoenix, Arizona.

In 2008, Havanchak stepped into restaurant ownership, taking the helm of downtown Willoughby’s seafood favorite, Lure Bistro. Six years later, he brought his vision home to Chardon with the opening of Square Bistro, located in the city’s historic downtown. Square Bistro offers inventive, approachable cuisine in a casual setting, featuring a rotating selection of handcrafted beers and a dining experience unlike any other in the area.

When he’s not in the kitchen, Havanchak spends his time with his wife, Rebekah, and their three children—Ava (17) and twins Ivy and Elena (15). Watching his children grow up in Chardon has deepened his appreciation for the community and reinforced his commitment to supporting local farmers and producers.

Havanchak’s menus emphasize fresh, locally sourced ingredients, including beef, pork, and lamb from nearby farms whenever available, along with seasonal vegetables sourced from regional growers. His philosophy is simple: great food starts with great ingredients and a strong sense of place.