MILWAUKEE — Kenneth Hardiman was one of the original hires ahead of Fiserv Forum’s grand opening in 2018. The senior executive chef is in charge of the kitchens not only inside the arena but all kitchens in the Deer District.

Whether a Bucks fan is among the 17,000 inside or 25,000 outside, all the cheering, dancing and jumping around works up quite the appetite. Hardiman hopes the meals are part of the memories created in Milwaukee.

“I want something that’s going to make people feel good and take them to a place they remember or a time that expresses that great sporting event where they had that great dog, sausage or burger,” Hardiman said.

Prior to accepting the challenge of overseeing an NBA franchise’s culinary profile, Hardiman ran the kitchen at the renowned Mason Street Grill attached to the Pfister Hotel. His roster now includes more than 500 employees between the arena, the Mecca Sports Bar & Grill, the Beer Garden and Gather, a new event space overlooking the Deer District plaza.

Hardiman says sharing his love of food keeps him going — along with a triple espresso to start the day.

When the Bucks are home for a playoff game, Hardiman arrives around 6 a.m. and typically heads home after midnight. Even during those 18-hour days, he finds time to enjoy what he and the Bucks have created in the Deer District.

“It’s indescribable,” Hardiman said. “The city has totally embraced all of this.”

Perhaps someday he will take a well-deserved vacation — he hopes that day comes after the Bucks capture an NBA title.