Mike Whalen

Founder

Mr. Whalen is the founder of Heart of America Group and has served as President & CEO since 1978. Through Mr. Whalen’s entrepreneurial leadership and vision, the company has grown from a single restaurant operation to a profitable and growing real estate development and hospitality enterprise. Mr. Whalen received his bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Illinois in 1975, receiving the distinction of Bronze Tablet Scholar, and his law degree from Harvard Law School with honors in 1978.

Mr. Whalen has received many awards and honors for his achievements, including Humanitarian of the Year by the National Restaurant Association, Entrepreneur of the Year from Inc. Magazine, and the BBB Integrity Award, among others.

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Mr. Whalen has received many awards and honors for his achievements, including Humanitarian of the Year by the National Restaurant Association, Entrepreneur of the Year from Inc. Magazine, and the BBB Integrity Award, among others.

Back To Founders

About Heart Of America

About Heart of America Starting with one 100-seat restaurant in 1978, Heart of America Group has grown to include a portfolio of award-winning, owned and operated restaurants, hotels, and commercial developments. Noteworthy brands developed and operated by Heart of America Group include the Machine Shed Restaurant, Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse, Burger Shed, The Republic on Grand, Fifth Avenue Syndicate, Thunder Bay Grille, The J Bar, Hotel Renovo, Revel Hotel, The Rewind Hotel, The Axis Hotel, and Wildwood Lodge. We pride ourselves on building long-lasting properties that bring value to the consumer and to the communities in which we build.

Locations

Operations Support Center - Moline
1501 River Drive
Moline, Illinois 61265
P: 309.797.9300
F: 309.797.8700

Operations Support Center - Des Moines
515 E Locust Street, Suite 100
Des Moines, IA 50309

Mike Whalen

Founder

About Heart Of America

Locations

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