Chef Pan Hompluem is the chef and co-founder (along with his wife Dana) of Lowcountry restaurant, 2359 S. Wentworth Ave., (and various other locations); lowcountrychicago.com.
Though he worked in finance and retail, his entrepreneurial drive led him to follow his passion for hospitality. In 2002, Pan launched Dragonfly Mandarin Restaurant in the Gold Coast, drawing lines around the block especially after hours when it transformed into a lounge and nightclub. With its walls parting to reveal a dance floor and DJs, Dragonfly became an iconic nightlife destination.
Pan, who refined his culinary skills at Kendall College, co-founded Lowcountry with his wife, Dana, in 2015.
