Tim McEnery

Founder and CEO

Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants

As Founder and CEO of Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Tim McEnery is a visionary in the experiential hospitality space, driving the brand to nearly $400 million in annual revenue and establishing it as a competitive force in the industry.

Guided by a passion for hospitality and a commitment to celebrating life’s moments through food and wine, McEnery has built a dynamic brand that spans 68+ restaurants, a 750,000+ member Wine Club, and a team of over 7,000 employees. Offering more than 50 varietals of award-winning artisanal wines—available exclusively at their restaurants and through the Wine Club—Cooper’s Hawk has earned over 800 national and international awards. The brand is also the official wine partner of the Screen Actors Guild Awards. In 2022, Cooper’s Hawk expanded with the launch of Piccolo Buco, a Neapolitan Italian pizza concept imported from Rome, which debuted in Chicagoland.

McEnery, a recipient of Crain’s 2025 “Who’s Who in Chicago,” has also earned a Golden Chain Award, Wine Enthusiast’s “Innovator of the Year” title, recognition in Crain’s Chicago Business’ ’40 Under 40,’ Ernst & Young’s “Midwest Entrepreneur of the Year” award, and the “LEAD Award” from HR.com. Cooper’s Hawk has earned recognition from Nation’s Restaurant News as a “Hot Concept,” “Breakout Brand,” and the #9 Fastest Growing Restaurant in the U.S., as well as ranking #126 on the list of the “Largest Restaurant Chains.” The brand also received a Pacesetter Award from Restaurant Business for its leadership and growth.