PATRICK MAGNESEN: LEADING BY EXAMPLE

PATRICK MAGNESEN opened Jonny Cab’s in Burr Ridge after spending two formative years at West Point, ranking in the top 10 percent of his class. He took a detour between that chapter and starting his finance studies at UNC Chapel Hill to live and work at an orphanage in Tanzania, teaching English and ultimately summiting Kilimanjaro. After UNC, he joined Dell and, after finding success on their acquisitions team, launched a business software firm called Points of Light Solutions. “Seven years in, the tech world shifted, and a conversation with my father—my mentor and closest friend—sparked a new path to take the helm at Jonny Cab’s,” explains Magnesen, who serves as CEO of the restaurant and live music venue. “Since then, I’ve poured myself into building a place that brings people together through a world-class dining and live music experience, hand-in-hand with my partner Gene Halleran.”

WHAT IS THE MOST REWARDING PART OF WHAT YOU DO?
Seeing our staff bring their full heart to the table each night—and seeing that reflected in our guests’ joy.

WHAT DEFINING MOMENT HAS SHAPED YOUR JOURNEY?
The day my daughter Serafina was born. My wife Renata’s strength and patience through it all has reshaped the way I see purpose. They’re the reason I wake up every morning with a fire in my belly.

WHO HAS BEEN YOUR MOST INFLUENTIAL MENTOR?
My father, Scott Magnesen. A force of nature. His integrity, curiosity, and generosity are unmatched. He’s as wise as he is entertaining—ask any Jonny Cab’s regular—and his example lights the path I try to walk every day.

HOW DO YOU STRIVE TO MAKE A LASTING IMPACT ON YOUR INDUSTRY OR COMMUNITY?
We’re proud to be an independent, homegrown operation. In a world that’s increasingly transactional, Jonny Cab’s is a place built on connection—where guests can count on great food, amazing live music, and world-class service.

For more information, visit jonnycabs.com. You may also follow Jonny Cab’s on Facebook at jonnycabsburrridge or on Instagram @jonny_cabs.

“Amor Fati.” – FRIEDRICH NIETZSCHE