Restaurant Hours

Restaurant Manager/Social Event Sales Manager

847 381-6501 Ext. 111

ssobczewski@makraygolf.com

I’m a proud graduate of Eastern Illinois University with a degree in Hospitality Management and deep roots in the Barrington area, where I grew up. I began my journey at Makray as a bartender and server, and through hard work and dedication, I was promoted to Banquet Sales Manager and later to Restaurant Manager. I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of a team that feels more like family. The supportive, collaborative environment has been key to my growth and success, and I truly value the meaningful relationships I’ve built with both my colleagues and our guests.

Outside of work, you’ll find me cheering on the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears or spending quality time with friends and family.

Executive Chef

847 381-6501 Ext. 110

jhennessy@makraygolf.com

I’ve been immersed in the culinary world for over five decades, beginning at age 14 under the guidance of three European Master Chefs who recognized my talent and work ethic early on. They put me through a rigorous European-style chef training that laid the foundation for my career. From there, I rose quickly to Sous Chef, mastering show work, ice carvings, and tallow sculptures. My journey took me to Marriott Hotels, where I honed my craft further, earning a 4-Diamond rating for 11 years and opening numerous hotels as part of their Task Force Team.

Today, I serve as the Executive Chef and Food and Beverage Director at Makray Memorial Golf Club, where I’ve found both a home and a calling. Here, I lead everything from personalized menu design and culinary execution to front-of-house service and event planning. I’m passionate about creating exceptional guest experiences and fostering a collaborative, inspiring environment for my team. It’s been an honor to cook for celebrities, dignitaries, and even serve as the Personal Team Chef for the Chicago Cubs since 2003. When I’m not in the kitchen, I enjoy golfing or spending time with my children and grandson.

Sous Chef

847 381-6501Ext. 110

mbattaglia@makraygolf.com

As Sous Chef at Makray Memorial Golf Club, I bring over 40 years of experience in restaurants, hotels, and private country clubs. Born and raised in Chicago, my love for cooking started early, inspired by my grandmother and her herb garden. I began my culinary journey as a dishwasher at Red Lobster in high school, drawn to the rhythm of a busy kitchen. My family later owned a banquet hall, where I trained with the chef while attending culinary school. After graduating, I joined United Airlines, learning from chefs around the world and mastering kitchen fundamentals, from gourmet cooking to ice carving. That experience was a turning point, shaping my skills and setting the foundation for the next 30 years as an Executive Chef in private clubs, where I found the freedom to be creative, craft menus, and elevate every dish.

At Makray, I bring that same creativity and leadership to every event, whether an intimate dinner for 30 or a celebration for 240. I'm passionate about making food that brings people joy, and every event is an opportunity to create something memorable. When I’m not in the kitchen, I enjoy riding my bike along the Fox River and spending time with my daughter, son, and two granddaughters.