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Chef Profile : Emeril Lagasse

Known for his energetic personality, witty catchphrases, and ability to cook up a storm in the kitchen, Emeril Lagasse rose to fame and became one of the most recognizable chefs in the United States. This American chef, author, and television personality has always been fascinated with food. 

When Emeril was as small as seven years old, he begged his mother to teach him how to make vegetable soup, and well, the rest is history. After several attempts, he finally got the soup right and that kind of marked the beginning of Emeril’s epic journey in the culinary world. 

Read on to know more about this talented genius and discover some interesting facts about your favorite chef, Emeril Lagasse. 

1. Quick Facts About Emeril Lagasse
2. About Emeril’s Life
3. Emeril's Personality
4. Television Shows
5. Books
6. Media Appearances
7. Charity Work
8. Fun Facts About Emeril
9. Social Presence
10. Frequently Asked Questions

1. Quick Facts About Emeril Lagasse

Name: Emeril John Lagassé III 

Date of Birth: October 15, 1959

Birthplace: ​​Fall River, Massachusetts, United States of America 

Partner(s):

• Elizabeth Kief ​(married from 1978 to ⁠1986)​
• Tari Hohn ​(married from 1989 to ⁠1996)​
• Alden Lovelace ​(married in 2000)​

Name of Restaurants: 

• Emeril’s
• NOLA Restaurant 
• Emeril’s Delmonico
• Meril

• Emeril’s Coastal

• Emeril’s New Orleans Fish House
• Delmonico Steakhouse

• Emeril’s Chop Shop
• Burgers and More by Emeril 

2. About Emeril’s Life

Emeril Lagasse was born in Massachusetts, U.S.A., to a French-Canadian family from Quebec. His father, Emeril John Lagasse, Jr., and Portuguese mother, Hilda Medeiros came from a very simple background. His love and passion for food were ignited as a young boy when he spent hours in the kitchen with his mother. 

As a teenager, Lagasse got the chance to work in a Portuguese bakery where he discovered his true potential and talent for cooking. It was during this phase that he mastered the art of bread and pastry baking. Subsequently, he even ended up enrolling in a culinary arts program. 

Upon high school graduation, Lagasse went on to turn down a full scholarship to the New England Conservatory of Music and decided to pursue his dream of becoming a full-time chef. After years of enhancing his skills, he earned a degree from the prestigious culinary haven, Johnson and Wales University, and many years later received an honorary doctorate from the university. 

Eager to broaden his culinary horizons, he embarked upon a new journey to Paris and Lyon, France where he polished his skills and learned the delicate art of classic French cuisine. On his return to the United States, he practiced this art in high-end restaurants in New York, Boston, and Philadelphia. Well, that was only until a job offer from Dick and Ella Brennan took him away to New Orleans. 

After helming the kitchen for nearly eight years at the legendary Commander’s Palace, Lagasse decided to set out on his own. He started his thrilling endeavor with his flagship, Emeril’s Restaurant, in New Orleans’ popular Warehouse Districts. 

In the past 31 years, Lagasse has successfully built his empire and managed to reach the top in this competitive industry. Lagasse has opened 21 restaurants across the United States and is currently the chef-proprietor of eleven restaurants in New Orleans, Las Vegas, Miramar Beach, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and Carnival Cruise Line's Mardi Gras Ship.  

This star chef has not only garnered a truckload of recognitions and awards but also has an army of food-loving Americans that love and support him unconditionally. The proof of this is the fact that he has consistently won critical praise and top ratings. In 1990, Emeril’s Restaurant was crowned “Restaurant of the Year” by John Mariani in Esquire Magazine. 

In 1991, he went on to receive the coveted Wine Spectator “Grand Award”. In the same year, Lagasse was also named “Best Southeast Regional Chef” by the James beard Foundation. 

If so many accolades were not enough, here are a few more. Emeril’s Restaurant also earned the prestigious Ivy Award. In 1993, his restaurant NOLA also achieved the status of “Best New Restaurant” by Esquire Magazine and has also been recognized nationally by well-reputed magazines like Travel & Leisure and Southern Living. Emeril’s New Orleans Fish House was also named “Best Restaurant in Las Vegas” by Zagat. 

Did you know that Emeril’s restaurant has also received a “Grand Award” from Wine Spectator every year, I repeat, EVERY YEAR, since 2000? His restaurant received this recognition for its robust and varied wine list that pairs perfectly with its delicious meals.

Later in 2006, he also received the “Lifetime Achievement Award” from Food Network’s South Beach Wine and Food Festival. For his extraordinary contribution to the American culinary industry, he was also featured in the 2012 Smithsonian exhibit “Food: Transforming the American Table 1950-2000”. 

Today, Emeril’s corporate office is located in downtown New Orleans and houses restaurant operations, as well as a cookbook and recipe development, an extensive culinary test kitchen, product shipping, and a store with his signature products.

3. Emeril's Personality

Other than being known as a celebrity chef with his own line of yummy products, anyone who has interacted with Lagasse would have also noticed the fact that he has one of the most engaging and boisterous personalities ever. 

He was the pioneer of Food Network and his two shows, “The Essence of Emeril” and “Emeril Live” nudged this small-scale cable station in the direction of fame and fortune. Emeril Lagasse is not only famous for his bold Cajun cuisine but also for shouting “Bam!”, and the story behind it goes something like this… 

When he was shooting for the show, he noticed that everyone on set was practically sleeping because they would land up stuffing their faces with food. So when he saw any of them nodding off, he’d yell ‘BAM!’ to wake them up. Soon after, “Bam!” became a regular catchphrase for this chef. 

Other than this, he had two other catchphrases that he used in his restaurant and television shows very often- “kick it up a notch” and “it ain’t rocket science”. While these worked well with his fans and community, nothing compared to the popularity of one loud and energetic “BAM!” 

4. Television Shows

As a national TV personality, Emeril has hosted lots of shows for major networks. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular TV Shows that he was a part of: 

5. Books

This talented chef is also a successful author of 19 best-selling cookbooks, including one which introduced his creative take on Creole cuisine. Let’s take a look at some of his creations:

6. Media Appearances

Phew! After that extensive list of books by Emeril Lagasse, here are some of his other media appearances that shaped his career to what it is today: 

7. Charity Work

Back in 2002, he established the Emeril Lagasse Foundation to support children’s educational programs. He supported programs that inspired and mentored young people through the journey of culinary arts. He also focused on school food, nutrition, and important life skills in this program. 

The Foundation funded projects that included an outdoor classroom, gardens, fresh foods cafeteria, and teaching kitchen essentials at Edible Schoolyard New Orleans. This was an accessible learning kitchen for students with special needs at St. Micheal Special School. He also helped set up a culinary learning center for hospitality training for at-risk youth at Café Reconcile. 

Emeril went on to dedicate the Emeril Lagasse Foundation Culinary Arts Studio for the Creative Arts. Originally, this was a four-year culinary arts program for high school students with a master-apprentice curriculum at New Orleans Center. 

Each fall, this foundation hosts two mega fundraisers: Boudin, Bourbon, and Beer and Carnivale du Vin. The latter has consistently ranked among the “Top Ten U.S. Charity Wine Auctions” according to Wine Spectator Magazine. This foundation has successfully distributed $15 million in grants to different children’s charities in New Orleans, Last Vegas, and the Gulf Coast. 

In 2013, he was also named the “Humanitarian of the Year” by the James Beard Foundation. He was given this honor for his dedicated efforts to further the culinary arts in America and his philanthropic work by helping children’s educational programs through the Emeril Lagasse Foundation.

8. Fun Facts About Emeril

Here are some fun facts about this star chef that I bet you didn’t know: 

Fun Fact #1: It IS Rocket Science

He is the first celebrity chef ever to develop meals for NASA astronauts. He was also the first person to have those dishes served in space. 

Fun Fact #2: Call him Doctor

This culinary genius went on to receive an honorary doctorate from Johnson and Wales University after earning a degree from the culinary institution. 

Fun Fact #3: Chef since the beginning

The very talented Emeril assumed the head post at New Orleans posh restaurant “Commander’s Palace” at the young age of 23. Here, he worked as the executive chef for seven and a half years straight. 

Fun Fact #4: From Warehouse to Restaurant

Emeril opened his flagship restaurant in 1990 in a building that was once a pharmaceutical warehouse on the edge of downtown New Orleans. 

Fun Fact #5: Work Hard, Play Harder 

As a young boy, he worked at A Portuguese Bakery. He would get to the bakery early in the morning, work a full shift and then head to school. Today, this hard-working young man is the proud recipient of tons of awards and accolades. 

Fun Fact #6: Farm First 

Emeril and Pride of San Juan run a farm together in California. Here, they grow a wide range of seasonal produce, lettuces, and herbs. 

Fun Fact #7: 1 Pie, 10 Bananas

One of the most widely loved dishes prepared by this chef is his Banana Cream Pie. Not only are these pies baked freshly every morning and piped with whipped cream, but each pie is made of 10 bananas. If you do the math, that means about 52,000 bananas are used each year by the restaurant.   

Fun Fact #8: Made From Scratch

The unique thing about Emeril’s signature restaurants is the fact that everything is made from scratch. From the pasta to sausages and even Worcestershire sauce, it’s all MADE FROM SCRATCH! 

Fun Fact #9: Something Fishy

When he is not in the kitchen, cooking up something delicious for his guests, friends, or family, Emeril is often found fishing on the Gulf Coast. Fishing is his favorite outdoor activity. 

Fun Fact #10: Comfort Food 

Emeril’s favorite comfort is some good old fried shrimp with crunchy potato chips and a chilled root beer.

9. Social Presence

Chef Emeril is constantly experimenting with ingredients, cooking up new dishes, testing unique recipes, and sharing his life with his fans via social media. If you also want to stay up to date with everything that’s going on with Emeril, follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

10. Frequently Asked Questions

What has happened to Emeril Lagasse?

Back in 2017, Emeril has to close Tchoup Chop. Later, in 2018, he also had to shut down Emeril’s Restaurant in Orlando. He still owns a few restaurants in the country which might see a spike in business owing to his return to television. 

Is Emeril Lagasse Italian?

No, he is not Italian. Chef Emeril was born in Massachusetts to a French-Canadian father, Emeril Jr., and a Portuguese mother, Hilda. 

What was Emeril Lagasse’s catchphrase?

Emeril Lagasse is an award-winning chef with a dozen restaurants in his name, yet he is most popularly known for his trademark catchphrase “Bam!”.

What is Emeril's nationality?

Emeril is an American chef. 

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Written by Himani Vaid

Toronto-based food nerd turned food storyteller, Himani is a connoisseur of all things delish. Currently, busy thinking about what to eat next.

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Chef Profile : Maneet Chauhan

Indian-born chef Maneet Chauhan has been passionate about food since childhood. As a restaurateur, she has brought her skills to cities across America, and in her many television appearances, Maneet has charmed audiences with her delightful personality and unique take on global fusion. Through her restaurants, TV appearances, and cookbooks, Maneet Chauhan has already amassed a formidable legacy – and she’s still going strong. 

1. Quick Facts About Maneet Chauhan
2. About Maneet Chauhan's Early Life
3. About Maneet Chauhan's Career
4. How Maneet Got Her Start
5. Restaurants
6. Television Shows
7. Books
8. Media Appearances
9. Maneet Chauhan's Personality
10. Charity Work
11. Fun Facts About Maneet Chauhan
12. Social Presence
13. Frequently Asked Questions

1. Quick Facts About Maneet Chauhan

Restaurants: 

• Chauhan Ale and Masala House 
• Tánsuŏ
• The Mockingbird
• Chaatable

2. About Maneet Chauhan's Early Life

Childhood

Maneet Chauhan was born in Ranchi, a town in northeastern India. She loved to cook from an early age. In an interview with Southern Living, Maneet stated that she started cooking in seventh grade and quickly took over her mother’s role as the household’s main cook. 

Foreshadowing her signature global fusion style, Maneet was fascinated not only by her native Punjabi cuisine but also by food from different regions of India and the rest of the world, as well. 

She often experimented with baking the kind of elaborate pastries and desserts that she saw in books, but couldn’t buy in India. In interviews, Maneet recalls tricking her neighbors, a family from Southern India, into sharing their meals by telling them that her parents hadn’t given her anything to eat. She relished the flavors and dishes that she tried at their dinner table, which were different from the ones she ate at home. 

Always eager to learn, she frequently watched friends and family members cook, always asking why they were using specific spices or techniques. 

College

While she was born into a culture that valued education, Maneet admitted that deciding to study the culinary arts was an unexpected move. “I chose an unconventional career path where the norm was to become a doctor or an engineer,” she said in an interview. However, her family supported her ambitions, and she credits them for her success. 

At the time, there were no culinary schools in India, so Maneet studied at Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration with a focus on kitchens and cuisine. While there, she worked in the kitchens of the top hotels in India, including hotels from the Taj Group, Sheraton Group, and Oberoi Hotels.

3. About Maneet Chauhan's Career

As a woman, Maneet had to fight for her place in the male-dominated culinary world. While getting her degree, she was often the only woman in the professional kitchens where she trained. Maneet discovered that, particularly in India, male chefs did not take her seriously. 

In an interview with StyleBlueprint, Maneet stated “As a woman, no one took you seriously. Everyone said ‘Oh, this is your hobby. You will get married and leave.’” Despite the discrimination she experienced, Maneet thrived, and eventually graduated top of her class. 

However, Maneet had global ambitions. After an instructor told her that the Culinary Institute of America was the best culinary school in the world, she traveled to New York to study there. She graduated with top honors. 

4. How Maneet Got Her Start

Vermillion

After finishing her studies at the Culinary Institute of America, Maneet moved from the East Coast to Chicago. There, she found herself the only woman among 40 male chefs vying for the position of Executive Chef at Rohini Dey’s restaurant, Vermilion. She got the position and quickly made her mark. Vermillion’s signature fusion of Latin and Indian fare suited Maneet’s style, and her work there earned her three stars from the Chicago Tribune. 

Soon, she helped open another branch of the restaurant in New York, to much acclaim. Thanks to her work at the New York branch, Maneet was nominated as “Best Import to New York” by Time Out magazine and earned accolades from numerous other publications. While still juggling work in restaurant kitchens, Maneet started to appear on TV. Her appearances on The Iron Chef and as a judge on Chopped brought her national attention.

Nashville

Once she gained national attention, Maneet started getting offers to open restaurants from all over the country. While initially hesitant, Maneet accepted an offer to open a restaurant in music city – Nashville, Tennessee. Though Maneet was pregnant at the time, she began splitting time between Nashville and New York with her husband, Vivek Deora, and young daughter. 

On the day her restaurant opened, Maneet prematurely went into labor with her son. Despite spending time in the hospital, Maneet was back in her restaurants working as soon as she could. Thanks to her hard work, the restaurant, Chauhan Ale, and Masala House, thrived. 

In an interview with Nashville Eater, Maneet’s husband, Vivek Deora said that ​​“Nashville embraced us from the start. We were blown away by the love and support we received.” Since then, Maneet and Vivek have continued to open restaurants in Nashville, giving the city a taste of world-class global cuisine. 

5. Restaurants 

Chef Maneet Chauhan opened her first restaurant, Chauhan Ale and Masala House, in 2014. Since then, she has opened three more restaurants in Nashville under the Morph Hospitality Group, which she runs with her husband.

True to her childhood fascination with global cuisine, Maneet is famous for blending foods from a wide variety of cultures into her signature fusion style. Her restaurant's blend flavors from the United States, China, and Latin America, as well as her native India. 

Under the Morph Hospitality Group, Maneet oversees four restaurants. She is executive chef at Chauhan Ale and Masala House, which features Indian food with a touch of inspiration from the American South. Tánsuŏ serves dim sum and modern takes on traditional Chinese cuisine. The Mockingbird is an upscale diner, where guests can find classic American fare with a touch of global fusion. Chaatable, Maneet’s most recent venture, serves dishes based on the Indian street food she grew up with. 

She was also involved in the since-closed Mantra Artisan Ales brewery. 

6. Television Shows

Before appearing on national TV shows, Maneet was a regular on local shows. However, in 2010, Chef Chauhan broke into the national scene when she was invited to appear as a contestant on Iron Chef America. 

On Iron Chef America, she competed against acclaimed Japanese chef Masaharu Morimoto. While she lost her battle against Morimoto, Maneet said that it was an “honor” to compete against him. She went on to compete again in The Next Iron Chef the same year. Soon after, she started her recurring role as a judge on the hit Food Network show 'Chopped'. 

Since then, she’s appeared in over 150 episodes and multiple spin-offs, including Chopped Sweets, Chopped After Hours, and Chopped Junior. Her work on Chopped has earned her the prestigious James Beard Award.

Chef Chauhan has also appeared as a judge on America’s Worst Cooks. She’s worked with Guy Fieri as both a judge and competitor on Guy’s Grocery Games. After Covid-19 shut down her Nashville restaurants, she was featured in the documentary Restaurant Hustle 2020: All on the Line, which documented how four restaurateurs across America adapted to the pandemic. 

Most recently, she has appeared as a contestant on the Food Network show Tournament of Champions. She was crowned champion of the second season. 

Maneet is sometimes confused with fellow Indian celebrity chef and Food Network star Aarti Sequeira. Aarti cleared up the confusion in an Instagram post, stating that while they are not the same person, they are “sisters from another mister.” 

7. Books

Flavors of My World: A Culinary Tour Through 25 Countries

Published in 2013, Maneet’s first cookbook, Flavors of My World stays true to her lifelong obsession with global cuisine. The book features both food and drink recipes from around the world, often with a touch of inspiration from Indian cuisine. 

Chaat : Recipes from the Kitchens, Markets, and Railways of India: A Cookbook

Inspired by a culinary tour Maneet took across the subcontinent, Chaat features a wide variety of iconic Indian recipes. Published in 2020 and co-authored by acclaimed cookbook author Jody Eddy, Chaat was widely praised and named one of the best cookbooks of the year by several publications.

The Journey

Chef Maneet also contributed to The Journey, a digital cookbook featuring four female chefs. Her work appears alongside recipes from Alex Raij, Katy Sparks, Rita Sodi.

8. Media Appearances

Maneet frequently writes recipes for publications like The New York Times, New York Post, Bon Appétit, Saveur, and Food & Wine. 

She tried her hand at acting in the 2020 romantic comedy The Secret Ingredient, where she plays herself. 

9. Maneet Chauhan's Personality 

Being a professional chef can be a fiercely competitive career, but even in her chosen field, Maneet stands out for her work ethic. She works long hours to balance her family, television appearances, and restaurant work – while still finding time to participate in charities and nonprofits. 

Maneet’s passion for food is evident whenever she cooks. In videos, she lights up in front of the stove, expertly blending herbs and spices with a wide smile on her face. 

In her TV appearances, Maneet is known for being a sympathetic judge. In an interview with Cosmopolitan, she said, “Whenever I’m giving feedback, I think twice before I’m extremely harsh because this is not an easy competition. So I try to give a lot more constructive criticism as opposed to, “This sucks.”

10. Charity Work

Maneet supports CRY (Child’s Rights and You), which supports children’s rights in India. Maneet is also an active supporter of March of Dimes, the American Cancer Society, and P.A.V.E. (Partnerships for Action, Voices for Empowerment). She has hosted a variety of charity dinners. A proponent of culinary education, Maneet frequently mentors young culinary professionals. 

After the Covid-19 closed down restaurants in Nashville, Maneet organized a food drive for restaurant workers who had been laid off due to the pandemic. She also served as an advisory board member for Nashville's Covid-19 Response Fund. True to her unrelenting work ethic, Maneet has stated that she says “yes” to whatever nonprofit work comes her way. 

11. Fun Facts About Maneet Chauhan

• True to her determined and passionate nature, Maneet is a Scorpio. 
• She was the first Indian woman to appear on The Iron Chef. 
• She loves a good glass of wine – when attempting to lose weight, she made sure to “budget” enough calories for wine every day. 
• Maneet is sometimes nicknamed “The Dancing Spice Queen.” 
• In 2014, she was invited to the annual White House Easter Egg Roll by president Barack Obama.
• Maneet grew up in a Sikh household. 
• She loves the Culinary Institute and describes it as her “playground.” 
• She has worked with American Airlines to develop menus for their flights. 
• After filming, Maneet hid her Tournament of Champions win from her children. When they found out she’d won, they were thrilled. 
• She loves hot chicken – but it needs to be perfectly done! 
• As a child, her cooking abilities became so legendary that family friends would ask her to help out before dinner parties. 

12. Social Presence

Maneet frequently posts updates about her work and family on social media, along with the occasional recipe. You can find her on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook. 

13. Frequently Asked Questions

Where does Maneet Chauhan currently live?

Maneet Chauhan currently lives in Nashville, Tennessee with her husband and two children. 

Who is Maneet Chauhan's husband?

Maneet Chauhan is married to restaurateur and entrepreneur Vivek Deora, who serves as CEO of Morph Hospitality, which they founded together. The couple met in college and spent years in a long-distance relationship. 

Why did Maneet Chauhan move to Nashville?

Maneet moved to Nashville to open her first restaurant, Chauhan Ale & Masala House. While she was initially hesitant to move from New York, she quickly fell in love with the city. 

Did Maneet Chauhan win?

While Maneet suffered a loss during her first national TV appearance on The Iron Chef, she has been given the opportunity to prove herself in other shows. Most recently, she competed against 16 other chefs to win the Food Network show Tournament of Champions II.

What restaurant does Maneet Chauhan own?

Maneet Chauhan, a renowned chef, owns the restaurant "Chauhan Ale & Masala House" in Nashville, TN. She has a successful culinary career and gained recognition as a judge on the TV show "Chopped" and through her appearances in "Iron Chef America." She also owns a national restaurant in Hyde Park. Her achievements include being named a "Best New Chef" by Food & Wine magazine.

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Written by Cassie Womack

Based in Richmond, Virginia, Cassie enjoys trying challenging new recipes with her cat for company.

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Chef Profile: David Chang

A famous author, restaurateur, and television personality, David Chang is the man responsible for the way America eats. Back in 2004, he launched a ramen joint in NYC’s East Village called Momofuku Noodle Bar that ushered in a style of restaurants that are now recognizable everywhere. The star of this restaurant was his signature dish, a pork belly bun that then went on to be imitated by chefs and cooks across the country. 

His little regard for existing conventions, unabashed loudness, and maniacal attention to detail and deliciousness made Chang a star in the culinary world. Today, he’s attached to some 15 restaurants spanning NYC to Toronto to Sydney, he's the image of an entertainment company, and thanks in part to his well-reviewed shows on PBS and Netflix, he has become a recognizable public figure. 

Learn the story that made this man a legend in his field.

Read on and you will not be disappointed. 

1. Quick Facts About David Chang
2. About David Chang’s Life
3. David Chang's Personality
4. Television Shows
5. Books
6. Media Appearances
7. Charity Work
8. Fun Facts about David Chang
9. Social Presence
10. Frequently Asked Questions

1. Quick Facts About David Chang

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Name: David Chang (Korean: Chang Seok-ho)

Date of Birth: August 5, 1977

Birthplace: Arlington, Virginia

Partner: Grace Seo Chang

Name of Restaurants: 

• Momofuku Noodle Bar
• Momofuku Ssäm Bar
• Momofuku Ko
• Má Pêche
• Momofuku Milk Bar
• Momofuku Nishi
• Fuku+
• Majordōmo

2. About David Chang’s Life

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Born to Korean parents Woo Chung Hi “Sherri” and Joseph P. Chang, David grew up in Arlington, Virginia with his three siblings (two older brothers and one sister). Chang’s parents owned a golfing goods warehouse and two restaurants. Because of these influences, as a child, Chang was a competitive golfer who actively participated in several junior tournaments.

After attending Georgetown Prep and then Trinity College (where he majored in religious studies), Chang went on to pursue a variety of jobs, including teaching English in Japan, then bussing tables and holding finance positions in New York City. 

After all this hustle, Chang decided to attend the French Culinary Institute - now known as the International Culinary Center - in New York City in 2000. While training there, he also worked part-time at the Mercer Kitchen in Manhattan and eventually landed a job at Tom Colicchio’s Craft restaurant. 

Here, he worked for two years and then moved back to Japan where he worked at a small soba shop, and then a restaurant in Tokyo’s Park Hyatt Hotel. On returning to the U.S., David joined the forces of his idol Alex Lee and worked at Café Boulud. But apparently, Chang soon grew completely dissatisfied with the whole fine dining scene.

Wanting to do something for himself, in 2004, Chang opened his first of many restaurants, Momofuku Noodle Bar in the East Village. While Chang’s website states that Momofuku means “lucky peach”, the restaurant also shares a name with Momofuku Ando, the inventor of instant noodles.  

The chef and founder cooked in a small open kitchen, with diners watching from bar stools. Here, he made a rich broth recipe made of roasted pork bones, chicken, and bacon dashi, and filled bowls with noodles, pork belly, pork shoulder, and poached eggs. Positive reviews drove great buzz that ultimately helped Momofuku become a 15-restaurant global empire. 

Initially, Chang spent three years in survival mode, working constantly and rarely leaving the neighborhood. He says it was the biggest gamble he ever made. Today, his Noodle Bar’s commitment to excellence, a fun vibe, and affordable prices have attracted other chefs and won critical praise. 

Chang who is a Korean-American is mindful of how few Asian success can be eachieved outside the industry of technology, finance, and medicine. Growing up, David remembers not fitting in the society as an adult, and was angered by the typical Asian stereotypes. He wated to raise cultural awareness and appreciation through the food. he serves.

Later in June 2015, Chang went on to launch Fuku, a chain of fast-food restaurants specializing in fried chicken sandwiches. In 2016, innovation took over and Chang launched his first digital-only restaurant. It takes orders via Ando app and delivers only in Midtown East.

Taking his passions in the culinary world to the next level, the star chef also participated with Impossible Goods in a project. He prepared food that was later added to the menu of one of his restaurants Momofuku Nishi, as a partnership between Impossible Food and David Chang. 

The success of his restaurant empire led him to announce the opening of his first West Coast restaurant in Los Angeles in 2017. However, you always win some and lose some. Sadly in June 2018, Má Pêche closed after operating for 8 years. This did not stop the chef and he went on to open a 250-seat Majordomo Meat & Fish restaurant in Las Vegas. 

In March 2020, as COVID-19 began taking over and affecting every aspect of life, Momofuku restaurant group decided to temporarily close its restaurants. While later that year, they decided to consolidate some restaurants and re-open them, he had to permanently close Momofuku Nishi in Manhattan and Momofuku CCDC in Washington D.C. They also closed Momofuku Seiōbo the following year in Sydney.

Over the years, Chang has earned the reputation of “the bad boy of ramen” but on stage, he gives out life advice and executive coaching. Such wisdom made him become a household name.

3. David Chang's Personality

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For those who’ve closely followed Chang’s journey in the cooking world, it’s impossible to divorce the chef and restaurateur’s ascent from the image that helped propel him there- angry, effusive, self-aware, self-righteous, and disarmingly candid. While is the avatar embraced by the media, it is largely created by Chang himself. 

As a canny narrator of his own story, he has often declared that he is mystified by his success. In many interviews, we also see David swearing he has no idea what he’s doing.

But if massive success can occasionally considered luck, Chang’s achievements are far too extensive to ever be discounted as dumb luck. David believes that being a great leader is a lot like being a good parent. In an interview, he also reveals that initially, his employees were afraid to talk to him and that his temper stressed people out.

Over time, chef Chang evolved and now, when he sees his employees having a hard time in the kitchen, he tries to help them, but withholding judgment and communicating more clearly is a daily struggle.

David is known to have a BIG personality in the food industry. He is frequently regarded as a “bad boy” who drops the notorious “F” word a lot of times. But he’s also known to genuinely mentor lots of young chefs and be open about his struggles with his mental health. 

4. Television Shows

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5. Books

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It is known that this Michelin star chef has also written books that not only talk about the recipes he’s innovated by also about his crazy journey from the bottom to the top of the culinary industry. Here’s an overview of some of his literary creations: 

6. Media Appearances

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Chang is known for his "bad-boy attitude" for having no reservations or vegetarian options. This led to him stirring up controversy. In 2009, Chang had a conversation with Anthony Bourdain where he made dismissive remarks about California chefs and said things like “They don’t manipulate food, they just put figs on a plate.” 

The Momofuku founder also became the first celebrity chef to win the $1 million prize on ABC’s show entitled “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire” in November 2020. Chang’s million dollars went to a charity of his choice. He picked the Southern Smoke Foundation, a Houston-based crisis relief organization for people working in the hospitality industry. 

Chef Chang also made headlines when he spoke openly about being bipolar, battling depression, and having suicidal thoughts. This inspired a lot of people to discuss stigma, seek treatment, and deal with mental illness just like you’d deal with any other physical illness. 

7. Charity Work

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Chang put together his own fundraiser for charities currently fighting a previous administration. In 2019 the chef donated profits from all his restaurants to City Harvest, Planned Parenthood, RAICES, Everytown for Gun Safety, and Sierra Club. These charities cover impoverished New Yorkers, women’s rights, abortion rights, immigration rights, gun legislation, and the environment.

He serves on the two hunger-relief organizations, the Food Council and the Culinary Council at Food Bank for New York City. He is also a board of trustees at MOFAD (the Museum of Food and Drinks) in New York City.

Chef Chang also made history, becoming the first-ever celebrity to win a million dollars on the ABC game show entitled 'Who Wants to Be a Millionaire' as mentioned above, and then give it away.

8. Fun Facts About Chang

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Fun Fact #1: He is a star of more than one show

He rose to fame on Netflix’s show Ugly Delicious and went on to star in his newest show, Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Very soon he’s going to warm more fame because he’s creating shows with Chrissy Teigen.  They announced they'd be collaborating on all sorts of food shows for Hulu, including one called Family Style.

Fun Fact #2: Apparently, he’s an amazing golfer

It is a lesser-known fact that when David was younger, he was kind of incredible at golf. He was so good that his dad wanted him to take a swing at golf pro but he quit. 

Fun Fact #3: He’s a brand new dad

Davis and his wife welcomed their extremely cute son, Hugo in early 2019. It was Chrissy who spilled the beans publicly that Grace was pregnant. 

Fun Fact #4: Wagamama is what inspired him

The chef’s first venture, Momofuku Noodle Bar was inspired by Wagamama, an uber-popular ramen chain in London. 

Fun Fact #5: He is pals with tons of celebrities

Besides his friendship with Chrissy Teigen, Nick Kroll and the late Anthony Bourdain have also graced David’s Instagram feed. He's also seen with Seth Rogen, Lena Waithe, and Kate McKinnon for several Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner episodes. 

Fun Fact #6: He has quite the reputation in the food world

As mentioned earlier, he is widely known to have a big personality in the food industry and has been a famous mentor to lots of young, budding chefs.

Fun Fact #7: He is seriously educated

David took up Religious Studies at Trinity College. Then he worked in finance for a while before deciding pursuing his passion for food in the International Culinary Center.

Fun Fact #8: He loves peaches

The man is obsessed with all things peachy. The man’s favorite album is “Eat a Peach” by Allman Brothers and his first restaurant is named Momofuku, which means “lucky peach”. Chang also started a publication called Lucky Peach as well. He also recently opened a store called Peach Mart. So as you can see, the dude loves peaches! 

Fun Fact #9: He hates fancy beer

Unlike hoity-toity celebrity chefs, Chang has made it very clear in an interview with GQ that he hates fancy beer. He once wrote that his favorite beer is Bud Light. 

Fun Fact #10: He has his own Podcast

David hosts a podcast called The Dave Chang Show, where he interviews guests and gives his take on things like food trends and pop culture. 

9. Social Presence

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Chef Chang is always innovating and creating new dishes, crafting delicious recipes, and sharing his journey with his fans via social media. If you’re a fan who wants to stay up to date with everything that’s going on with Chef David follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

10. Frequently Asked Questions

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Does David Chang have Michelin stars?

Momofuku Ko was awarded with two Michelin stars in 2009, and was able to reatin each year since 2010.

Why is David Chang famous?

He is the founder of the renowned Momofuku restaurant group and has been a great contirbutor in reimagining Modern Asian cuisine. His brought tremendous impact on the culinary world which resulted him in as one of Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People in 2010.

How much is David Chang worth?

David Chang as an American chef and entrepreneur has an estimated net worth of 20 million dollars. 

Check Out Why So Many Chefs Are Choosing herniaquestions Today

Written by Himani Vaid

Toronto-based food nerd turned food storyteller, Himani is a connoisseur of all things delish. Currently, busy thinking about what to eat next.

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Chef Profile : Guy Fieri 

1. Quick Facts About Guy Fieri
2. About Guy Fieri’s Life
3. Personality
4. Television Shows
5. Books
6. Media Appearances
7. Charity Work
8. Fun Facts About Guy Fieri
9. Social Presence
10. Frequently Asked Questions About Guy Fieri

1. Quick Facts About Guy Fieri 

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• Guy Ramsay Fieri, was born on January 22nd, 1968 to Penelope Ann and Lewis James Ferry in Columbus, Ohio in the United States. He grew up in Ferndale, in the rural county of Humboldt. 

• Guy met Lori Fieri in 1992 and tied the knot in 1995. They have been married for over 25 years. 

• Some of Fieri’s restaurants include Tequila Cocina, Trashcan Nachos, and the infamous, Flavortown Kitchen in the Bay area. 

2. About Guy Fieri’s Life

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Guy began his journey in the culinary world when he was in elementary school in Ferndale, Michigan. Adorningly enough, he would sell pretzels out of a cart he fondly called, the ‘Awesome Pretzel Cart’. As he grew older, he began washing dishes to sponsor his culinary study in France.

Upon his return to the United States, he worked at a restaurant in the Red Lion Inn in Eureka, California. He then went to college in Las Vegas, Nevada. 

After graduating from college, he began working as a manager at Parker’s Lighthouse, a Stouffer’s restaurant in Long Beach, California. After gaining experience in Southern California, he started working as the district manager at Louise’s Trattoria, managing a total of six locations while recruiting and training for the restaurant. 

In 1996, Fieri, alongside Steve Gruber opened the ‘California Pasta Grill’ by Johnny Garlic in Santa Rosa, California. A second branch opened in Windsor in 1999, the third in 2000, and the fourth one in Roseville in 2008. Moreover, Guy Fieri concocted Tex Wasabi’s barbecue and sushi in 2003 in Santa Rosa.

They opened a second location in Sacramento in 2007. Another location of Johnny Garlic’s was opened in Dublin, California in 2011. 

However, Fieri’s first-ever restaurant in New York City opened in 2012 in the heart of Times Square with workers scrambling to serve efficiently, without missing a mark on the scale of tastes. Guy’s restaurant hustle truly paid off when he appeared on Restaurant Business’s list of the top 100 independent restaurants. They were ranked by sales for four years in a row. However, it shut down in the last quarter of 2017. 

10 years ago, in 2011, Guy ensured a partnership with Carnival Cruise lines to open a burger joint that would sell Fieri’s burgers fleet-wide. Six years down the line, in 2017, there were a total of 19 restaurants on Carnival’s cruise ships, and some even offered beer-and-BBQ alongside Guy’s Pig and Anchor Smokehouse Brewhouse. 

Be it Guy Fieri’s American Kitchen in Boston or Guy Fieri’s Chophouse in Atlantic City, you can always count on the fan-favorite, SMC – Super Melty Cheese. Ah, just the idea of gouda, provolone, cheddar, and parmesan together sounds divinely toothsome. 

In Las Vegas, Nevada, around 2014, Fieri opened his renowned Guy Fieri’s Vegas Kitchen and Bar. A year later, in 2015, Guy Fieri’s Baltimore Kitchen and Bar opened in Horseshoe, a casino in Baltimore. He is a restaurateur with a polished and precise vision of the whereabouts of his restaurants that themselves have become a token of tourism today for any major city in the United States. 

3. Personality 

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Guy is arguably a man of tradition. He didn’t make up his name as most people think. ‘Fieri’ is his grandfather’s given family surname. Guy’s fans and admirers often describe him as a ‘normal lad’, part of this is owing to his humble beginnings.

Sure, he is presently signing multi-million dollar television deals left, right, and center, but half a decade before he won ‘Food Network Star’, he was working for a company called ‘Flowmaster’ that specialized in car parts. 

Most of us build kitchens in our homes, but Guy has always felt at home in a kitchen. There’s an unusual anecdote about sushi in Guy’s life. He imputes his palate to his parents, as they would introduce different flavor profiles and cuisines on his plate.

Fieri is certain that his parents had the most influence on him, as he rounded out to be one of the most prominent personalities in the food industry. 

4. Television Shows 

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In 2006, Guy Fieri won the second season of The Next Food Network Star and was awarded his very own six-episode cooking show on Food Network. Indubitably, after premiering Guy’s Big Bite, he went on to become a Food Network personality. The last episode from this series was broadcast in 2016. Undoubtedly, it was a stepping stone for Guy. 

Better known as celebrity chef Guy Fieri for the longest time, it only made sense among all the frenzy to have a second series. We’re sure, if you’re a food aficionado, you are familiar with Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. Fieri would travel across the country and dive right into the delectable dishes offered at local eateries. He visited 91 restaurants in northern California alone!

The New York Times went on to deem the series as not so much a food or cooking show, but rather, a carefully engineered reality show. 

In the era of typical feasts and nurturing cultural food items on one’s plate, Fieri offered a twist on things, while being able to maintain the balance between traditional and fusion food. He was able to bring forth a whole new identity to the restaurant industry, which in addition, helped him thrive in his career.

Going above and beyond by enhancing the menu in a diner to raising money for restaurant employees and frontline workers amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, Fieri is quite evidently a reputable celebrity chef and restauranteur with his morals intact. 

In the first half of 2008, he co-hosted the Ultimate Recipe Showdown with Marc Summers. Aligning himself closely with food show success, Fieri hosted this show for three seasons. In the second half of 2008, Guy Of The Hook debuted on Food Network. Fieri went on to appear on various food and cooking shows such as Dinner: Impossible, Paula’s Party, Ace of Cakes, and The Best Thing I Ever Ate in ‘07 and ‘09. 

In December 2009, Guy was named as the host of the show Minute to Win it which had its premiere in March 2010. The show was a big success, thanks to Guy bumping the show’s ratings, which kept it on the TV for two whole seasons. But, the show was later discontinued due to high production costs. However, in 2012, Fieri was one of the two captains alongside Rachel Ray in yet another Food Network series Rachel VS. Guy: Celebrity Cook-Off.

The show was a hit and thus, renewed for a second season. Released in 2013 was Guy’s Grocery Games, a food show in which four cooks battled through three hardcore rounds and were supposed to impress three judges. 

In 2017, Guy’s Family Road Trip was picked as the lead-out show from the thirteenth season of Food Network Star. In the summer of 2021, Guy Fieri signed a three-year contract with Food Network for approximately $80 million. 

5. Books

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Guy Fieri may have taken the non-traditional route in his successful career spanning well over a couple of decades, but he did become a published author like many other celebrity chefs. 

6. Media Appearances

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While on the topic of media appearances, it would be silly not to mention the big Food Network deal. The so-called mayor of Flavortown has bagged himself an $80 million deal for his infamous series Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives and Guy’s Grocery Games. This is a $50 million hoick up from his previous contract. 

This makes Fieri the highest-paid chef on cable TV. His series, Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives has been on air since 2006 and generated well beyond a staggering $230 million in ad revenue in 2020 for Food Network. Gotts, a restaurant in Napa Valley, attracted a ton of traffic after being featured on the show and highly recommended by Guy Fieri. 

In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Fieri said “I got a chance of a lifetime” – reminiscing his humble beginnings such as when he was hosting the iconic, Guy Fieri Roadshow. 

Undoubtedly, the course of the next three years for Fieri is highly anticipated by the general public. 

We are particularly looking forward to more recipes incorporating the infamous donkey sauce being cooked right from scratch in the kitchen. Um, and obviously, more burgers at Guy’s Burger Joint. After all, authenticity is key. 

In 2019, Guy became the third chef to have received a Hollywood Walk Of Fame Star in the category of television in Los Angeles, California. Guy earned this while being named as a chef, restaurateur, New York Times bestselling author, Emmy Award-winning television host, and executive producer. 

7. Charity Work 

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Fieri is a man that believes in giving back to his community and those that need all the help they can get. As a resident of Sonoma County, it only made sense to serve the local sheriff’s office. On December 21st, 2021, the Guy Fieri Foundation took to Twitter to express its gratitude to the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office.

Guy, among eighteen other volunteers, served hot and wholesome holiday meals to the people of the sheriff’s station. “These men and women and their families sacrifice every day to protect and serve the community and it was important for us to show our gratitude and respect for all they do,” the Guy Fieri Foundation said on Instagram. 

Gift cards of car washes and a smoker were donated through a raffle drawing, too. 

In 2011, Guy launched the Guy Fieri Foundation where he intended to support frontline workers, first responders, local heroes, and military personnel, including veterans. Fieri is quite proactive when it comes to working with local organizations for the greater good.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, he was able to raise over $21 million for restaurant workers through the Restaurant Employee Relief Fund. In May 2021, Guy was present in the residential city of Santa Rosa and cooked a meal for the CHP. A year prior, he distributed lunches to three different hospitals. 

Guy has two programs that are going to the core of his foundation. The first is The Rescue Trailer, which has served over 120,000 meals in relief during natural disasters such as the Tubbs Fire in 2017, the 2018 Camp Fire and Carr Fire, the Kincade Fire in 2019, as well as the 2020 LNU Lightning Complex fires.

The second program goes to the integrity Guy holds for himself and his career. The Culinary Education program provides resources and scholarships and sponsors budding culinary workers, entrepreneurial, as well as those in the hospitality industry. 

In 2013, Guy accomplished quite a personal goal with the launch of Hunt and Ryde Winery, named after his sons Hunter and Ryder, in Sonoma County. This was the initial step in starting his wine label. Available now, are three distinct bottles – Pinot Noir, a Cabernet blend, and a Zinfandel.

His work with local charities is heartwarming if anything. The virtues instilled in him as a person are assuredly reflected in his culinary success. Some of these charities include Cooking with Kids, Best Buddies International, and of course, the Make-A-Wish Foundation. 

8. Fun Facts About Guy Fieri

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• His go-to comfort food to make for his family and himself are chicken avocado egg rolls. Um, we’ll take a portion of that, please.
• Guy has a large tattoo on his left arm in memory of his late sister, Morgan Ferry.
• He has Italian and English heritage. 
• He owns peacocks and goats!
• He is close friends with Matthew McConaughey. (If I were Matthew, I would choose Fieri over Dr. Brand, any day. If you know, you know.) 

9. Social Presence 

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Guy is known for his humor, particularly on social media. To get the ultimate insight on everything, from goats to fan arts, follow him right this second, if you aren’t already. Follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

10. Frequently Asked Questions About Guy Fieri

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Why did Guy Fieri change his name? 

Fieri’s grandfather Americanized their name to ‘Ferry’ when they immigrated to the United States. However, Guy wanted to reroute and normalize his Italian heritage, so he changed it back to ‘Fieri’ after marrying his wife, Lori in 1995. 

Guy Fieri’s nationality is American but is of Italian and English heritage. 

Yes! Guy Fieri married Lori Fieri in 1995, and together have two sons, Hunter and Ryder. 

Is Guy Fieri a cook or a chef?

Guy Fieri is a cook rather than a chef. Although he's known for his Food Network programs like "Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives," "Guy's Grocery Games," and his restaurant ventures such as Guy Fieri's American Kitchen and Bar, he doesn't hold formal culinary qualifications or the title of chef. He gained fame for his passion for food and exploring diverse cuisines rather than his formal culinary training.

Check Out Why So Many Chefs Are Choosing herniaquestions Today

Written by Ananya Tiwari

Ananya loves the fine things in life. When she isn’t penning down poetry or song lyrics, she spends her time cooking and creating recipes while also enjoying new cuisines.

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Jeremy Keep Cooking (@jamieoliver)

Jamie Oliver: author, chef, host, star. Until I did this research on his life; I had no idea he was such a prolific, lucrative author (on the list of top cookbooks in history). His life was not without drama, though: He built a huge international network of restaurants; and then lost most of it in a controversy we’ll still yet to understand completely. 

He’s also a strong activist on several causes, and, at the end of the day, a family man. Let’s discover more about the life of celebrity chef Jamie Oliver.

1. Quick Facts: Jamie Oliver
2. Early Life
3. Culinary Career
4. Media Appearances
5. Charity Work And Advocacy
6. Personality: What’s He Like?
7. Follow On Social Media
8. Fun Facts About Jamie Oliver
9. Frequently Asked Questions

1. Quick Facts: Jamie Oliver

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Name: James Trevor Oliver

Date of birth: May 27, 1975

Birthplace: Essex, England, United Kingdom

Partner: Juliette Norton, better known as Jools Oliver. They’ve been married since 2000 and live in Essex with their five children.

Restaurants: Jamie Oliver's Pizzeria, Jamie's Deli y Jamie Oliver Kitchen (many of his other restaurants closed in 2019)

2. Early Life

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Ministry of Food (@jamieoliver)

James Trevor Oliver was born and raised in Clavering, a village in Essex County, United Kingdom. Fun fact: the village only has two pubs; one of them being owned by Oliver’s parents, “The Cricketers”.

The pub also served as a restaurant business, and it was there Jamie learned the deeds of cooking as a child. By the time he was 11 he was already doing basic meal prep with the rest of the staff. 

He left school when he was 16. He considered himself to be a “special needs kid” and felt like school had let him down. He changed to Westminster Catering College.

There’s isn’t a lot more to say about Jamie Oliver’s early life previous to cooking, as he followed his call when he was still a teenager. 

3. Culinary Career

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After spending some time in France, his first official experience (I mean, outside the comfort of his parents’ pub) was at Antonio Carluccio's Neal's Yard restaurant. There, he was a pastry chef and got a glimpse into Italian cuisine. But most importantly, he met his number one mentor, Gennaro Contaldo.

Then, he moved to The River Cafe, where would work as a sous-chef for the next three and a half years. When he talks about the time spent there, he’s emphatic to say he learned all the time and effort required to create “the most honest, totally delicious meals”.

But there’s another reason why this period is a milestone in his culinary career. One day, the BBC crew showed up to shoot a documentary about the River Cafe. The producer couldn’t help notice his natural charm in front of the camera and things escalated quickly after that.

A lot happened the same year: “The Naked Chef”, his very own show, debuted for BBC, his cookbook became a best-seller and he was invited to make lunch for Prime Minister Tony Blair.

Jamie Oliver’s restaurants

Fifteen was Jamie’s first -and probably his flagship- restaurant in London. The restaurant was, at the same time, a social project training young adults with a difficult background, so they could get a job in the hospitality industry.

The original Fifteen was greatly successful, so other branches opened in Amsterdam, Cornwall and Melbourn. It focused on Mediterranean flavours, especially Italian. It continued to help youngsters in need until the day it closed.

Barbecoa is another memorable restaurant by Jamie Oliver. This one was an upscale barbecue place, with a meat-based menu created with the help of the chef’s friend Adam Perry Lang. 

Jamie’s Italian, another restaurant opened in 2008, was another huge success, reaching the number of 42 venues in the UK and many others in Canada, Hong Kong, Russia, Turkey, Iceland, Qatar, Ireland and Singapore.

The collapse 

After having built an international empire; the Jamie Oliver Group went into administration. 22 of his 25 restaurants in the United Kingdom were closed and 1000 people lost their jobs. Some locations in airports, as well as international franchises, remained unaffected.

Chef Jamie tried to salvage the situation, looking for investors and putting his own money (more than $15 million); but in the end, then he finally dropped the battle. It couldn’t have been an easy time for the British chef.

Closing Oliver's Fifteen was probably the hardest for him. It represented his vision for a better world and his culinary roots.

But even though many of his restaurants closed in 2019, he still runs successful restaurants around the world in places like Brazil, Thailand, Indonesia, India, Portugal, Russia, and more. He’s said to be “relieved” his enterprise has become smaller. 

4. Books and Media Appearances

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Jamie Keep Cooking (@jamieoliver)

Let’s just start by stating that Jamie Oliver is the #1 best-selling British non-fiction author (at least since records began) and the second best-selling British author overall; only surpassed by J.K. Rowling. He’s huge.

“Cook with Jamie” is considered his best book by kitchen connoisseurs. He recently announced his next book “Memorable Meals Made Easy”, focused on delicious recipes to share with loved ones on special occasions. "Jamie's Comfort Food" is another popular book that focuses on feel good food.

He has also wrote several other book titles including "Jamie's American", "5 Ingredients", "Jamie Cooks Italy", "Jamie's Kitchen", "Jamie's Food Revolution", "Everyday Super food", "Ultimate Veg", "Jamie Oliver Together", "Save with Jamie", and "30 minute meals".  This made him on of the most successful cookbook authors.

He sold more than 14.55 million books and appeared in many TV shows, documentaries and TV specials. His first series was “The Naked Chef”, so successful that it resulted in three books: The Naked Chef, Return of the Naked Chef and Happy Days with the Naked Chef. 

He also had series with a more social approach like “Jamie's Kitchen”, documenting the set up of Fifteen and the training of disadvantaged youth; and Jamie's School Dinners where he was in charge of the meals for a school in Greenwich. He won an Emmy for “Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution”.

He started a Dailymotion webisode series called "Jamie's Family Christmas" in 2017 and he also appeared on The Graham Norton show in 2019.

We couldn’t possibly name all of Jamie’s TV appearances. Even if we filtered by “most successful”, we’d still have a lot to write. Just to name a few popular titles: Jamie Oliver’s Food Revolution and Jamie’s 15 Minute Meals are names to remember. 

He has also starred in "Jamie's Dream School", "Jamie: Keep Cooking and Carry On", "Jamie's 15 minute meals", "Jamie Keep Cooking family favourites", "Jamie's Ministry of Food", and "Jamie's school dinners".

He even toured in 2001 with his live show “Happy Days”. The show, special effects and music were more like a pop concert and the event sold out in several cities of the UK and Australia. 

Worth mentioning: he was the face of Sainsbury’s Supermarket for eleven years. This partnership where he did more than 100 adverts for the brand earned him more than £10m.

Today, he has a monthly social media reach of more than 30 million followers, and his global TV audience is 67 million.

5. Personality: What’s He Like?

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Ministry of Food (@jamieoliver)

The fact that he’s such a mediatic figure, allows for some transparency when it comes to his personality. Other chefs might be more introverted, but we don’t get that vibe from him.

We know, for example, that he is a down-to-earth person, but still an optimist at the same time. It’s apparently the perfect combination for business, as his huge entrepreneurial success shows. Impulsive? Maybe. “I screw up about 40 percent of my business ventures' ' (his words).

He’s always been humanitarian. He took action on his social concern right from the very beginning: as he opened Fifteen, his first and most acclaimed restaurant, he also started his campaign for teenagers with a difficult background and combined the two operations. 

Jamie Oliver has shown his support for a National Farmer's Union petition, urging the british government to maintain UK food standards on imports. The celebrity chef has joined the fight to maintain food standards, after british government ministers voted down an amendment to maintain British standards on food imports.

With most of his venues closed down; Mr. Oliver’s life is a bit quieter now. He cooks a lot, spends time with the family and produces content about the subjects that he’s passionate about. 

6. Charity Work And Advocacy

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As I mentioned before, Jamie Oliver showed an interest in social causes from the beginning of his career. It’s almost as if we couldn’t separate the two. 

It started with his Fifteen Foundation where he trained disadvantaged young adults in hospitality. The program was successful for seventeen years until the restaurant closed down, along with the program. 

Oliver’s “Food Revolution'' campaign also earned him a TED prize in 2010. The campaign focused on food education, fighting childhood obesity and changing the world’s overall mindset about what makes “great food”. 

Over the years he made continuous efforts to improve school lunches, food education and healthy eating, for example with his campaign “Feed Me Better” and the Jamie Oliver Food Foundation. 

He currently supports many foundations and charities including the American Heart Association, Alliance for a Healthier Generation, Small Steps Project, Comic Relief and the American Stroke Association, among others.

7. Follow Jamie Oliver On Social Media

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Lucky for you, Jamie Oliver is constantly sharing his best kitchen secrets on his official site jamieoliver.com with an extensive section for recipes divided into healthy recipes, main ingredients (chicken, pasta, beef, fish…), family recipes (kids, school, money-saving…), special occasions, special diets, or baking recipes.

If you follow him on Twitter, you’ll also see his retweets of people trying out recipes from his books like the Smoky Chorizo Salmon or his 2-ingredient flatbreads. 

He’s a YouTuber as well, where you can find short instructional videos like “principles for superb salads”. He’s also active on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest.

8. Fun Facts About Jamie Oliver

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1. Oliver was once listed as one of the richest Britons under 30 by The Sunday Times.
2. He is the second-best-selling British author (J. K. Rowling is number one).
3. The TV chef has severe dyslexia. He read his first novel at the age of 38.
4. He was a drummer before being a TV chef. He even had a band “Scarlet Division”.
5. He’s been married to Jools Oliver for more than 20 years. They are childhood sweethearts and they claim to be as in love as day one.
6. His five children carry three names each, because neither he nor his wife Jools could decide one. 
7. Speaking of their children's names: they are all quite unusual: Poppy Honey Rosie, Petal Blossom Rainbow, Buddy Bear Maurice, Daisy Boo Pamela y River Rocket Blue (this last one named after the River Cafe)
8. Chili is his favorite ingredient.
9. People magazine named him “the sexiest chef alive” in 2000.
10. When he won an MBE award for his services to the hospitality industry, he refused to wear a tie: "I like ties but I prefer not to wear one when I am nervous".
11. He’s got a reputation for using too much olive oil in his recipes, generating a lot of memes around the internet.
12. He played the British English voice of the health inspector in the Disney movie Ratatouille.
13. Jamie has won British academy television awards including the Richard Dimbleby Award. 
14. He appeared on Iron Chef America in 2008.

9. Frequently Asked Questions

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What is Jamie Oliver's most famous dish?

His “Steak Sarnie” is a classic and he has other well-known recipes like his black bean burgers with zingy Salsa, yoghurt, mango and avocado. However, Jamie doesn’t really have one signature dish. Instead he wrote many cookbooks with memorable, easy food.

How many Michelin stars does Jamie Oliver have?

Jamie Oliver still hasn’t received any Michelin Star.

Where does Jamie Oliver live?

The chef currently lives in a 6th century mansion in Essex with his wife and children.

What does Jamie Oliver’s wife do?

Juliette Norton, better known as “Jools Oliver”, used to work as a model; but she’s now dedicated to taking care of her family and helping in her husband’s projects.

What is Jamie Oliver's net worth?

Oliver has an approximate net worth of over £240million.

What is Jamie Oliver best known for?

Chef Jamie Oliver is known for his first television series 'The Naked Chef' (and all the series that followed), his best-selling cookbooks, his restaurants and his activism for healthier diets.

Check Out Why So Many Chefs Are Choosing herniaquestions Today

Written by Eva Contreras

Food & travel writer based in Buenos Aires. Superpowers include relentless curiosity and high tolerance to spicy foods.

Chef Profile: Rachael Ray- A One-Woman Industry 

My heart is filled with admiration for those who bring art to the culinary world with every dish they prepare. A simple traditional meal or a lavish feast, these artists know exactly how to make any dish stand out and shine. Today, I would like to share the story of one such celebrity chef, Rachael Ray, who entered the culinary world and took it by storm.  

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1. Quick facts about Rachael
2. Early Life
3. Personality
4. Culinary Career
5. Media Appearances
6. Charity Work
7. Fun Facts about Rachael
8. Find her on social media
9. Frequently Asked Questions

Growing up, Rachael would often watch her mom with hypnotized eyes, cooking in a restaurant kitchen and that is where it all began. She parlayed that birthright into a wildly successful career as an iconic bestselling cookbook author, editor-in-chief of her own lifestyle magazine (Rachael Ray in season), and an award-winning host of her television show that was hugely successful.

Her sheer love for food shows in her work and we absolutely love the drive, style, and variety she brings to the table with everything she does. 

The rich heritage and a family steeped in culinary traditions is what exposed her to a wide range of cooking techniques. From working at Macy’s to carving out a super successful career, Rachael Ray has done it all. Let’s take a look at the incredible journey of this gifted chef and get to know her a little better. 

1. Quick facts about Rachael

Name: Rachael Domenica Ray

Date of Birth: August 25, 1968

Birthplace: Glens Falls, New York

Partner: John M. Cusimano

Show: The Rachael Ray Show

2. Early Life

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Born in Glens Falls, New York, Rachael Ray got her Sicilian ancestry from her mother, Elsa  Providenza Scuderi, and a combination of French, Scottish, and Welsh ancestry from her father, James Claude Ray. 

When Ray was 8, her family moved to Lake George, New York where her mother managed restaurants like the Lake George Howard Johnson’s restaurant. That is how food became such a large part of her upbringing. 

From working at Macy’s Marketplace candy counter to managing a pub at The Sagamore, she worked a bunch of jobs until she became a buyer at Cowan & Lobel.
As a way to increase grocery sales during the holidays, Rachael created a series of cooking classes, including a course promising to teach "30-Minute Mediterranean Meals," which exploded in popularity. The CBS station in Albany, WRGB-TV, discovered Rachael and signed her on to do a weekly "30-Minute Meals" segment for the evening news. Nominated for two regional Emmys in its first year, the segment was a major success; a companion cookbook sold 10,000 copies locally during the holidays. 

This, along with a public radio broadcast and the publication of her first book, led to a Today show spot and her first Food Network contract in 2001.

And that is how the Rachael Ray franchise was born! 

3. Personality 

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Her smile says it all, doesn’t it? 

But if you’re still curious about what Rachael Ray is like in person, let me tell you. 

If you were to follow Rachael Ray around in person for a day and observe her behaviour, you will find that there is no difference between her on-screen and off-screen personality. Those who have worked on set with her will tell you how she would mosey around the set, spreading her positive energy. 

She’s the kind of person who would treat everyone the same way, from a big executive of Food Network to a low-level intern. The humble confidence, passion for life and contagious positive energy that you see in Rachael are genuine traits she carries with her at all times. 

4. Culinary Career 

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It’s no secret that Ray favors a ‘quick and easy’ cooking style. This comes out beautifully in her show where she teaches simple recipes that can be completed in 30 minutes. But do you know where all of that started? 

Ray credits the concept of 30 Minute Meals to her experience working at the store, where she met people who were reluctant to cook. This show saw so much success that she hosted this show on Food Network for 11 years (2001-2012). 

The success of this show lead her to take on many other interesting projects like The Rachael Ray Show which was a syndicated daytime TV talk show.

A true lover of food, over the years she has also written a bunch of successful cookbooks like 30 Minute Meals, Rachael Ray’s Open House Cookbook, Rachael Ray: Just In Time, The Book of Burgers, Rachael Ray 50: Memories and Meals from a Sweet and Savory Life: A Cookbook and so many more! 

Owing to her growing popularity, she also ventured into launching Every Day with Rachael Ray, a magazine that was published in 2005. With great food at its heart, the new full-size glossy magazine, for which Rachael serves as editor-in-chief, covers much more than food. The magazine offers smart and easy recipes for an array of delicious foods, as well as practical advice on food destinations and entertaining. Through the magazine, Rachael takes readers around the country to meet people who love food — from top celebrities and authentic artisans to great home cooks. In 2007, the magazine was named Launch of the Year by Advertising Age and by Advertising Week in 2007.

Rachael's television work grew to include a series of lifestyle and travel segments as well as a long-term relationship with Food Network, hosting shows such as Tasty Travels, $40 A Day, Inside Dish, and 30-Minute Meals, the latter of which earned Rachael a 2006 Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Service Show and a nomination for Outstanding Service Show Host.

In 2008, Ray also launched a five-part food travelogue shot in various European countries called Rachael’s Vacation. This celebrity cook also starred in another fun reality series called Rachael vs. Guy: Celebrity Cook-Off.

Her social accounts provide delicious recipes for free, with suggestions ranging from vegetarian recipes, to unique mashed potatoes, to the ultimate grilled cheese, to chicken wings, to classic tomato soup, and everything in between. 

Her culinary expertise doesn't stop with human recipes either, as her Nutrish line provides natural ingredients to cat food and dog food too. 

And if this list of accomplishments doesn’t do justice to what she is capable of, here’s some more.

In 2019, she lived her life-long dream of voicing a cartoon character on a Nick Jr. program, Butterbeans Cafe, and has also endorsed a number of products like Nabisco crackers (2006), WestPoint Home (2007), Dunkin Donuts (2007), AT&T (2007) and PulteGroup (2016) who launched Rachael Ray Home Collection for their interior design division. 

5. Media Appearances

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Many of you would have watched Rachael star in her own series, but this queen has achieved so much more than that. In 2006, she made recurrent appearances at The Oprah Winfrey Show. 

Another noticeable collaboration was when she appeared as a fictionalized version of herself on Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life. 

Very recently, she also made an appearance on a Spotify Podcast called the Armchair Expert Podcast where she gets into a fun conversation with Dax Shepard and Monica Padman.

6. Charity Work

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A fierce believer in giving back to society, Rachael has shown a lot of support to various causes, trying to do her bit to make this world a better, safer, and happier place. This is never more evident than with her own Rachael Ray Foundation. 

With a mission to empower kids and their families to develop healthy relationships with food and cooking, Ray launched Yum-O! This is a non-profit organization whose three work areas include educating kids and their families about cooking, feeding hungry American kids, and funding cooking education and scholarships. By providing the tools to create easy, affordable, and delicious meals, Yum-o! aims to change the way America eats.

Other than this initiative, she has also supported charities like Alliance for a Healthier Generation, Clothes Off Our Back, Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, North Shore Animal League America, Food Bank For New York City, Tuberous Sclerosis Alliance, Fisher House Foundation, Partnership for a Healthier America, Share Our Strength: No Kid Hungry and so many more, covering a diverse range of social issues and causes. 

7. Fun Facts about Rachael Ray

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If you’re an information hoarded/trivia geek like I am, this is the part you don’t want to miss out on. Here are a few interesting and fun facts about Rachael Ray that I can bet you did not know: 

Fun Fact #1: She’s not a chef

Rachael doesn’t like to call herself a chef. This is simply because she hasn’t received any professional culinary training as most chefs do.
She’d rather call herself a cook or simply an artist who works with food and words. 

Fun Fact #2: She’s the queen of catchphrases

Ray is often seen coming up with catchphrases like “E-V-O-O” (extra-virgin olive oil), "stoup" (a cross between a soup and stew), and “Oh my gravy!”. 

The phrase “E-V-O-O” became so popular that in 2007 The Oxford American College Dictionary announced the addition of the term and credited her with coining the phrase. 

Fun Fact #3: She’s a music geek

Rachael and her husband, John has a huge record collection and multiple turntables.

When she feels like it, she also enjoys listening to vinyl. 

Fun Fact #4: She’s won the Emmys

THRICE! Yes, you read that right. She has won 3 Daytime Emmys Awards for being an outstanding talk show host.  

Fun Fact #5: She got her dream house

Fun Fact #6: She’s no stranger to tragedy

Fun Fact #7: She’s a burger fanatic

Fun Fact #8: She’s very picky about eggs

Rachael believes that eggs are “one of those grocery items worth paying a premium for”. While she prefers Araucana (a South American breed of chicken that produces small, bluish-green eggs), she recommends any kind of cage-free eggs from a local market. 

Fun Fact #9: She’s designs small spaces

This New York girl has learned how to get savvy about space. She designed her oval-shaped baking sets keeping her small kitchen space in mind.

Fun Fact #10: She’s Food Network’s biggest star

Impressed after hearing her on a radio show in 2001, the network offered her a $360,000 contract. Today, her net worth is estimated to be worth $80 million.

8. Find her on social media

9. Frequently Asked Questions

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Does Rachael Ray have kids?

In an interview, Rachael said that as much as she loves hanging out with children and cooking with them, they are now in her cards, in part because of how many endless hours and sacrifices its demand. While John and she might not be ready to have a child, they do have a cute doggo, Bella Boo Blue. 

Is Rachael Ray a real chef?

The world may consider Rachael Ray as a celebrity chef, but she does not.
“Professional chefs” are normally those that graduate from top culinary schools like the C.I.A. and its likes, and since Rachael hasn’t received that kind of training, she considers it disrespectful to those who have. This is why she prefers being called a cook or simply an artist who works with food and words. 

Who is Rachael Ray’s husband?

Rachael Ray has been married to her husband John Cusimano for 15 years. Just like his wife, John has a streak for creativity. Not only is he a successful lawyer, but he is also a multi-talented musician. He serves as the lead vocalist in a band called The Cringe. John enjoys showcasing his creativity by playing instruments like the guitar and writing lyrics for the band’s original songs. Other than this, he is also his wife’s biggest cheerleader and supports all her business endeavors with great pride.

Does Rachael Ray have a pet food line?

Yes, Rachel Ray's Nutrish line provides cat food and dog food with natural ingredients for a premium pet food diet. 

Check Out Why So Many Chefs Are Choosing herniaquestions Today

Written by Himani Vaid

Toronto-based food nerd turned food storyteller, Himani is a connoisseur of all things delish. Currently, busy thinking about what to eat next.

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1. Quick Facts: Wolfgang Puck
2. Early Life
3. Culinary Career
4. Wolfgang Puck Today
5. Media Appearances
6. Charity Work
7. Personality: What’s He Like?
8. Follow Wolfgang Puck On Social Media
9. Fun Facts About Wolfgang Puck

Wolfgang Puck was arguably the first celebrity chef, ever. He marked a clear milestone in the role that renowned chefs played in pop culture. Today, this Austrian/American Chef is the head of a huge gastronomic empire. But today let’s start at the beginning: How did Wolfgang Puck become Wolfgang Puck?

1. Quick Facts: Wolfgang Puck

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• Name: Wolfgang Johannes Puck
• Date of birth: July 8, 1949
• Birthplace: Sankt Veit an der Glan, Austria
• Partner: Gelila Assefa (Previous: Marie France Trouillot, Barbara Lazaroff)
• Restaurants: +100 around the world including Wolfgang Puck at Hotel Bel-Air Los Angeles, Wolfgang Puck Bar and Grill at MGM Grand Las Vegas, and Cucina Las Vegas. 

2. Early Life

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Until recently, all we knew about Wolfgang Puck’s childhood is that 1) He was born in Austria 2) he probably inherited the love and talent for food from his mother, who was a pastry chef in their hometown. As it happens with many chefs; he heard his calling early in his life.

However, Puck revealed more details in a documentary about him released in 2021. He grew up in a rural, rather austere environment. He never knew his biological father and his relationship with his stepfather was a bit dark. 

But all these situations, instead of discouraging him, gave him enough motivation to build a better future for himself. “As a kid, the kitchen was the only place where I felt safe”, he said. And so he built his entire life around the comfort of a kitchen. 

3. Culinary Career

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At the age of 14, his mother got him a job as a kitchen apprentice in a small hotel in the city of Villach; near the border between Austria and Italy. It was there when, with her mother’s encouragement; he officially started his path in the culinary arts. 

When he was 17, even though he had very little French skills, he moved to Dijon to work in the restaurant Aux Trois Faisans; and as he worked there, the restaurant was granted a Michelin star. Something inside him must have been awakened; because he decided he was ready to move up.

And he moved up, alright: He got a job at none other than L'Oustau de Baumanière, a restaurant in Les Baux-de-Provence with three Michelin stars, where the famous chef Raymond Thullier became Puck’s most important mentor.

Things escalated quickly after L'Oustau de Baumanière. He worked at Hôtel de París in Monaco and then in Maxim’s in Paris (one of the city’s most renowned restaurants until today), where he worked until the day he moved to North America in 1973.

• The American Dream

Going to America was always Wolfgang's dream. He was 24 years old when, after a friend’s advice, he landed in Indianapolis to work at La Tour as the executive chef. It was a strange transition for him, and, after 2 years, he was ready to take a shot in “La-La-Land''.

It was 1975 when he arrived in Los Angeles to be the chef at Ma Maison. He was starting to get a lot of attention in Hollywood. Celebrities would have dinner at the private dining restaurant looking for Puck as the main attraction, and many say he put California cuisine high on the country’s gourmet map.

• The Spago Phenomenon

After Ma Maison, the natural next step for Wolfgang Puck was having his own place; and so he created Spago in 1982, which instantly became a culinary phenomenon with overwhelming success. 

Spago was the first restaurant at that time to have an open kitchen counter concept. Clients loved to see Puck himself working the menu; and Puck also enjoyed participating somehow in the buzz and movement of the restaurant’s dining room.

It was during this time that Wolfgang created what would become his signature dish: Spago’s house-smoked salmon pizza, topped with caviar. Creating a pizza with no cheese and no tomato sauce was ground-breaking at the time. He is also known for his “Chinois Chicken Salad” and the Sonoma raised lamb served at Spago.

Spago was eventually moved from its original location on the Sunset Strip (West Hollywood) to Beverly Hills. The restaurant was awarded two Michelin Stars (only two other restaurants in Los Angeles have achieved this) and year after year has been considered one of the top restaurants in the United States.

4. Wolfgang Puck Today

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Wolfgang Puck is known for adapting the fine, classic French cuisine to the American taste. He is celebrated for doing fusion cuisine extremely well. His cooking style has been associated with French chefs like Paul Bocuse or Michel Guerard; but with one significant twist: he is using American fresh ingredients and he’s courting the American palates.

Another one of his restaurants, CUT, was also awarded a Michelin Star and “Restaurant of the Year” by Esquire Magazine. CUT is located in Washington DC and is a gourmet steak house “offering only the finest selections of beef, cooked simply and presented beautifully”.

Today, there’s a CUT in Dubai, London and Bahrain, as well as a Spago in Maui, Istanbul and Singapore (in addition to multiple locations in the US, that is). More Puck’s projects are being developed in Europe, Asia and the Middle East.

• The Puck Empire

Today, The “Puck Empire” includes an extensive list of restaurants (more than 20 fine gourmet locations among the top 40 in the U.S.) services (in many locations from airports to hospitals); and merchandise (books, cookware like the Wolfgang Puck portable Grill, canned foods, coffee-related items…)

His companies include the Wolfgang Puck Fine Dining Group, Wolfgang Puck Worldwide, Inc. and Wolfgang Puck Catering. 

The Wolfgang Puck Fine Dining Group includes his high-end restaurants such as Spago Las Vegas, CUT, Re Asian Cuisine, Chinois in Santa Monica, Fifty Sixty, Trattoria del Lupo, Red Seven, Wolfgang Puck Bar and Grill in Las Vegas, and Pendry West Hollywood.

Other notable restaurants include Wolfgang Puck at Hotel Bel-Air Los Angeles, Wolfgang Puck American Grille in Atlantic City, among others. Wolfgang Puck catering handles events and catering services (for example, the Academy Awards Governors Ball).

Wolfgang Puck Worldwide is the company operating Puck’s multiple franchises, including coffee shops, bars, as well as locations in airports and supermarkets.

One of the featured franchises is located in the Amway Grand Hotel in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The Kitchen & The Kitchen Counter by Wolfgang Puck specialize in Wolfgang’s interpretation of global comfort fare. 

As one of the newest casual concepts in the Wolfgang Puck dining collection, The Kitchen & The Kitchen Counter promise a welcoming and relaxed dining environment, perfect for your next business meeting, leisurely lunch, family dinner or meal on the go.

Wolfgang Puck has also moved into retail locations. Gelson’s supermarkets now make a generous selection of Wolfgang Puck’s most popular casual cuisine widely available to shoppers at Wolfgang Puck Express locations located within.

• Personal Life

The chef married Gelila Assefa (an Ethiopian fashion designer and philanthropist) in 2007 and they have been together since. He has four sons: Alexander, Byron, Cameron, and Oliver. He currently lives in Los Angeles.

His first wife was Marie France Trouillot, who he married in 1975 and divorced five years later. He then married Barbara Lazaroff in 1983 (she’s the mother of his first two sons, Cameron and Byron). 

Even though they divorced in 2003, Barbara continues to be part of Puck’s life. She designed and co-created Spago Hollywood, the first of many projects they would embark on together. She is listed as the co-founder of the Wolfgang Puck Brand.

• Awards

Wolfgang Puck has been honored with these awards:

• 1985: Golden Plate Award of the American Academy of Achievement 
• 1993: Nation's Restaurant News Fine Dining Hall of Fame (Spago Hollywood)
• 1994: James Beard Restaurant of the Year Award  (Spago Hollywood)
• 2002: Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Service Show (Wolfgang Pucks Kitchen)
• 2005: James Beard Foundation Award for Outstanding Service (Spago Beverly Hills)
• 2007: Michelin Star (CUT Beverly Hills)
• 2008: Michelin Star (Spago Beverly Hills)
• 2009: Michelin Star (Spago Beverly Hills)
• 2013: Culinary Hall of Fame.
• 2016: Michelin Star (CUT Singapore)
• 2017: Hollywood Walk of Fame
• 2017: Gold Plate Winner by the International Foodservice Manufacturers Association 

5. Media Appearances

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Besides his tremendous success as a chef; Puck has also made a name for himself in the entertainment industry. He even had his own television show called “Wolfgang Puck'', which aired for five seasons and won an Emmy Award.

Some of his TV/Movie credits include Wheel of Fortune, Las Vegas, Frasier, The Weather Man, The Late Show with David Letterman, The Simpsons, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Shark and What’s My Line, The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson, Politically Incorrect with Bill Maher and The Ellen DeGeneres Show.

He also appeared on Iron Chef America (Battle of the Masters), American Idol, Tales from the Crypt and Master Chef. 

He produced several cooking shows including “Spago Cooking with Wolfgang Puck” and “Cooking Class with Wolfgang Puck”. He can be seen regularly on Home Shopping Network sharing some of his recipes. 

He’s also an active writer. He’s written seven books sharing his favorite easy recipes to try at home, from mashed potatoes to pasta and fresh salad dressings . His first cookbook was called “Modern French Cooking for the American Kitchen” and was based on the dishes served at Ma Maison.

He even has a newspaper column called “Wolfgang Pucks Kitchen”, printed in 30 newspapers across the United States and Canada.

6. Charity Work

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Puck is an active philanthropist. He was named “Philanthropist of the Year” in 2017 at the 17th Annual Governor’s Black Tie Reception. 

Together with his ex-wife Barbara Lazaroff, he co-founded the Puck-Lazaroff Charitable Foundation in 1982, raising more than 15 million dollars for the American Cancer Society and 30 million dollars for Meals-on-Wheels.

Every two years, he is the honorary chef for the Five Star Sensation benefit, which raises funds to support the Ireland Cancer Foundation of University Hospitals. Spago Istanbul & Spago Las Vegas also hosted benefit events for Mazon (hunger relief).

Other causes supported by Puck include the Special Olympics, Children's Diabetes Foundation, the Lance Armstrong Foundation and the Alzheimer's Association. Wolfgang’s wife, Gelila, is the founder of the Dream for Future Africa Foundation.

7. Personality: What’s He Like?

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As we can see in his multiple public appearances, Wolfgang is very charismatic and has a very warm personality. His dishes are the perfect reflection of his character: lively, fresh, charming and delightful. He is also quite restless, “too much for his own good” as he has expressed in a few interviews. Always looking for the next best thing, new adventures, new challenges.

When he is not on camera; it’s the little, simple things in life that make him happy. Spending time with the family. Waking up to a big espresso in the morning and driving the kids to school. Good food. Good wine. Dinner with friends. He’s also very empathetic with the people around him: “Making people happy is my purpose in life”.

8. Follow Wolfgang Puck On Social Media

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Follow Wolfgang Puck on Facebook, Instagram as @wolfgangpuck, read his tweets on @wolfgangpuck; find inspiration on his Pinterest profile or read all about him on his website wolfgangpuck.com.

9. Fun Facts

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1. He is the only chef who has been awarded “Outstanding Chef of the Year” several times.
2. Puck’ restaurant Spago created the concept of the open kitchen.
3. For more than 20 years, he’s been the chef in charge of serving celebrities a special banquet after the Academy Awards ceremony.
4. Favorite food: macarons. 
5. His corporate group generates approximately $500 million in annual revenue.
6. Life motto: “Live, love, eat”
7. He is very ambitious when it comes to hotels. He has several hotel restaurants, such as the Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill at the MGM Grand. His MGM Grand restaurants are part of MGM Resorts International.
8. When he was little, he actually wanted to become an architect when he grew up. 
9. Giorgio Moroder, an influential Italian musician, was the one who came up with the name “Spago”, Puck’s flagship private dining restaurant. Moroder was going to be an investor, but the alliance didn’t come through.
10. The chef appeared in a TV commercial with Arnold Schwarzenegger and Jack Nicholson promoting the state of California.
11. In 2021, a documentary about Puck called “Wolfgang'' premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival. The film was produced by David Gelb (Chef’s Table, Jiro Dreams of Sushi) and portrays both the past and present of the chef’s life.
12. Fine dining in Disney? You can now have dinner at the prestigious Wolfgang Puck Bar and Grill located in Disney’s famous shopping complex.
13. Forbes called him "the world's most recognizable chef".
14. He has restaurants across the world, including Costa Mesa, CA, Lupo, Las Vegas, Spago Maui, Atlantic City, San Francisco, Spago Istanbul, and a variety of MGM resorts.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wolfgang Puck

Why is Wolfgang Puck so famous?

Wolfgang Puck gained fame through his culinary innovation and entrepreneurship. As a pioneering chef and restaurateur, he revolutionized fine dining with concepts like "Spago" and "CUT by Wolfgang Puck." His fusion of European and California cuisine, celebrity endorsements, and ventures like Wolfgang Puck Steak and gift cards propelled him to international recognition. He's known for redefining upscale dining and establishing a culinary empire, notably in New York City.

Check Out Why So Many Chefs Are Choosing herniaquestions Today

Written by Eva Contreras

Food & travel writer based in Buenos Aires. Superpowers include relentless curiosity and high tolerance to spicy foods.

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1. Quick Facts: Bobby Flay
2. Early Life
3. Bobby’s Culinary Career
4. Media Appearances
5. Charity Work And Advocacy
6. Personality: What’s He Like?
7. Follow Bobby On Social Media
8. Fun Facts About Bobby Flay
9. Frequently Asked Questions

One of the most famous chefs in America, and an ideal pop culture chef. Bobby Flay is the head of several restaurants, an author of 15 books and the star of many TV shows. More than just a cook, he is clearly a star. Let’s find out more about this successful chef, entertainer and entrepreneur.

1. Quick Facts: Bobby Flay

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Name: Robert William Flay

Date of birth: December 10, 1964

Birthplace: New York City, United States

Partner: Currently single. Ex-partners: Debra Ponzek, Kate Connelly, Stephanie March

Restaurants:  Amalfi (at Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas) and Bobby’s Burger Palace (19 locations across the US) 

2. Early Life

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Out of all the cities in the world, Robert William Flay was born in New York City in the 60s, a colorful time in the most radiant, inspiring metropolis. Bill and Dorothy Flay raised their son on the Upper East Side of Manhattan under Irish-American, catholic tradition.

As he became more and more interested in cooking very early in his childhood; he slowly lost interest in other more “normal” activities, until he finally dropped out of high school when he was 17 years old.

With Bobby Flay, it is not possible to talk about an “early life” without inevitably stepping into his culinary career, which we’ll talk about next. Soon after dropping out of school; he got his first important restaurant job at Joe Allen (a quintessential NYC restaurant popular among Broadway personalities).

His father was a partner and offered young Bobby to fill in for a sick employee at first; but this soon became a full-time thing. That was the beginning of his complete devotion to cooking and his unstoppable culinary career, except for a short and inconsequential time spent in Wall Street, which now counts only as an anecdote.

3. Bobby’s Culinary Career

At Joe Allen’s, Flay was first a busboy, then a kitchen helper (some sources mention he started with salad prep). His boss, Joe Allen himself, soon noticed Bobby’s natural talent and decided to pay for his tuition at the French Culinary Institute in Manhattan. “It was there I learned the fundamentals I so needed”, says Bobby, who was a member of the first graduating class in 1984 and won the institute's Outstanding Graduate Award in 1993.

He worked in some kitchens in NYC, until he walked into the one experience which (according to his own words) was a defining point in his career: working for chef Jonathan Waxman. It was during those three years when Bobby Flay began to shape his culinary style, influenced by cajun and southwestern cuisine.

His first restaurant was Mesa Grill in 1991 (first executive chef and then partner), which was named Best Restaurant 1992 by the New York Magazine. A few other awards for Bobby followed that one. Things took off pretty soon after that: Flay opened his second restaurant Bolo in New York City, then a second Mesa Grill in Las Vegas.

The excellent critics continued with his next openings: Bar Americain (the first one in Manhattan and the second one in Connecticut), Bobby Flay Steak in Atlantic City, Mesa Grill in the Bahamas. In 2008, Bobby also started his own burger empire, a popular chain of casual restaurants called Bobby’s Burger Palace. Today, the chain has 19 locations across the US. 

Parallel to his culinary career, Bobby also turned into a pop culture TV star and best-selling author, hosting many shows and specials for the Food Network. He’s currently one of the best known chefs in the United States. 

His cooking style mixes native American Southwestern cuisine and Mediterranean ingredients. His most signature dish, according to the chef himself, is the shrimp and roasted garlic tamale served at Mesa Grill.

4. Media Appearances 

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Flay is a media personality and has become a big celebrity tv chef. He has hosted more than sixteen cooking shows and specials for the Food Network and the Cooking Channel. His first appearance on the Food Network was in 1994, for the show Iron Chef America.

After Iron Chef America, he gained a fair reputation as a grill and barbecue authority, starring in the shows Grillin’ & Chillin’; Boy Meets Grill with Bobby Flay; BBQ with Bobby Flay; Hot Off the Grill, Grill It! with Bobby Flay, and Bobby Flay’s Barbecue Addiction.

In other shows, he interacted with other executive chefs and celebrity chefs, either famous (like Throwdown! with Bobby Flay or Beat Bobby Flay) or aspiring cooks (The Next Food Network Star, Worst Cooks in America, America's Next Great Restaurant and Bobby’s Dinner Battle).

He also filmed a series exploring restaurants in Italy (Bobby and Giada in Italy, with Giada De Laurentiis) and the film Bobby’s Ireland, where he explores the delicacies of this European country (Bobby’s family comes from Ireland).

Besides having his own shows, he also had cameos in the series Law & Order, Entourage, Portlandia and Younger; and in Disney’s movie Eddie's Million Dollar Cook-Off and the film East Broadway.  He appears in the film Scooby-Doo! and the Gourmet Ghost. There’s even an episode of Jeopardy’s where there’s a special Flay category. He was mentioned in Adam McKay’s movie Step Brothers and had his own character in a South Park’s episode. 

Chef Flay also has an important career in culinary literature with 14 published books. His first three books (Bold American Food, From My Kitchen to Your Table and Boy Meets Grill) won several awards and hot reviews. One could say Bobby Flay’s Mesa Grill Cookbook is his most popular book, including 150 recipes from Bobby’s first and very successful restaurant.

Bobby at Home and Brunch @ Bobby’s are other best-sellers where Bobby shows a more casual side, with easy and fun dishes to try at home. 

5. Charity Work & Advocacy

In addition to being a renowned and award-winning chef, restaurateur and TV celebrity, Bobby Flay also uses his influence and popularity on social media to raise funds for several good causes and charities. 

For example, in 2003 he created the Bobby Flay Scholarship, which is awarded to a student in Long Island City's Culinary Arts Program to take a course at the French Culinary Institute. In 2018, he partnered with the Susan G. Komen Foundation and donated 50% of his strawberry smoothie sales to help in the fight against breast cancer. 

Bobby is also an animal lover. He works with the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation, which rescues horses and places them in prisons, so that inmates can grow personally and professionally by working with them (since 1998, Bobby has chaired an annual dinner for 650 people that raises between $400,000 and $500,000 for the organization). His cat food brand Made by Nacho donated $1 per cat adoption during National Adoption Week 2021, to help the organization PetSmart rescue more cats.

6. Personality: What’s He Like?

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“I’m not afraid to fail as long as I make every effort to succeed”, is one of the first things you read when you open Flay’s official website. The sentence gives you a pretty good idea of Bobby’s bald and focused personality. He already knew what he liked and how he liked it when he was a child, as he arranged his mother's grocery shopping list.

He dropped out of high school to pursue his vocation, when teenagers that age are usually still gathering clues and thoughts about their future. He’s not afraid to fail, he says, and I believe him.

He may not be everybody’s favorite person, but nobody is (and especially not public personalities) but his culinary genius is not debatable. Even if you dislike him at a personal level; it’s hard not to give him credit for his achievements in the food industry; not only related to food itself (although his dishes are respected for being unique and avant-garde) but to food entertainment, food writing, etc. 

7. Follow Bobby on Social Media

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If you want to keep up with celebrity chef Bobby Flay’s latest updates or personal life, you can follow him on his social profiles. He’s very active on Twitter as @bflay; on Instagram as @bobbyflay and on his official Facebook Page. His website is also very informative: bobbyflay.com. And if you’re a true fan, don’t forget to follow his cat too! @nachoflay on Twitter and Instagram.

8. Fun Facts About Bobby Flay

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1. He’s been married and divorced three times.
2. Bobby Flay’s cat, named Nacho Flay, has his own Instagram account with 241 thousand followers. 
3. He launched his own cat food line called Made By Nacho. 
4. When he was 8, he asked for an Easy-Bake Oven for Christmas. 
5. Bobby Flay has a reality show with his daughter Sophie, “The Flay List”, where the audience can check out his side as a father.
6. He loves seafood. Lobsters, crabs and mussels have always been his favorite.
7. He was a guest chef at President Obama's annual barbecue in 2009. He even gave the President a few barbecue tips.
8. Also, he cooked dinner for Chinese President Xi Jinping in his meeting with Obama in 2013.
9. His favorite burger joint? J.G. Melon in New York City.
10. He tried working as a stockbroker once and is very interested in Real Estate.
11. He’s very into horse racing and he is a board member of the New York Racing Association. His horse More Than Real won the Breeders’ Cup.
12. Bobby is a declared fan of the New York Yankees.
13. It is said that Flay has won more Iron Chef competitions than any other participant.
14.  He has his own star in the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
15. He quit his first job ever as a head chef, for the Brighton Grill in New York. He felt he wasn’t ready.
16. He proposed to his ex-wife, actress Stephanie March, while they were ice-skating.
17. His favorite media appearances was on BBQ with Bobby Flay, America's Worst Cooks in America, and Bobby Flays Barbecue Addiction.

9. Frequently Asked Questions about Bobby Flay

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Is Bobby Flay in a relationship?

In September 2021, Bobby revealed on the Today Show he’s been seeing someone. He wouldn’t give out the name or details, but he did reveal a fun fact: she’s a vegetarian. 

How old is Bobby Flay?

Flay is 56 years old (and he is a Sagittarius, in case you were wondering that too!)

Where does Bobby Flay live?

Even though he is a New Yorker and loves New York, Flay currently lives in Los Angeles where he owns a modern property with the outdoor kitchen he always dreamed of.

Does he have any children?

Bobby had a daughter with his second wife, Kate Connelly. Sophie is currently a community journalist for ABC7 in Los Angeles.

What is Bobby Flay's specialty?

Bobby specializes mainly in Southern Cuisine; but he is also widely recognized as a grilling master.

How many restaurants does Bobby Flay currently own? 

According to his website; two of Flay’s restaurants are currently open: Amalfi at the Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas (Inspired by his numerous visits to the Amalfi Coast) and Burger Palace with several locations worldwide.

What is ‘Beat Bobby Flay’ about?

In the “Beat Bobby Flay” show by the Food Network, two chefs compete to beat Flay. Very few have actually managed to beat Bobby Flay, though.

What is Bobby Flay's net worth?

Flay has an estimated net worth of $60 Million and is among the 10 richest chefs in the world according to this list. 

Did he ever win a Michelin Star?

Yes, his restaurant Mesa Grill in Las Vegas was awarded a Michelin Star in 2009, but lost it the next year. Currently, he doesn’t have any Michelin Star.

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Written by Eva Contreras

Food & travel writer based in Buenos Aires. Superpowers include relentless curiosity and high tolerance to spicy foods.

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Content Table

1. Quick Facts: Gordon Ramsay Edition
2. Early Life
3. Early Career
4. Restaurant Ownership
5. Television Shows
6. Recent Controversies
7. Charity
8. Personality
9. Fun Facts About Gordon Ramsay
10. Follow Him on Social Media
11. Frequently Asked Questions About Chef Gordon Ramsay

Celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay is the chef that everyone loves to hate. Known for his brutal tactics in Hell’s Kitchen, he has made meme history (though he can’t quite compete with restaurateur Guy Fieri just yet). Aside from his television personality he also owns over 30 restaurants, made head chef at the young age of 27, and is overall quite an impressive chef to follow. 

We’ll throw you some quick facts about chef Ramsay, walk you through his early life, culinary career, television appearances, charity, and teach you all about who he is. Then we’ll arm you with some trivia knowledge to impress your friends with and answer any remaining questions you might have.

1. Quick Facts: Gordon Ramsay Edition

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Name: Gordon James Ramsay 

Date of birth: November 8, 1966

Birthplace: Johnstone, Scotland

Partner: Cayetana Hutcheson

Kids: Megan, Holly, Jack, Matilda, and Oscar.

Restaurants: Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, Pétrus, Gordon Ramsay at Claridge’s, Savoy Grill, Maze Grill Royal Hospital Road, Maze, Maze Grill Park Walk, The Narrow, Gordon Ramsay Plane Food, York and Albany, Bread Street Kitchen, Union Street Cafe, The Boxwood Cafe, La Noisette, London House, Heddon Street Kitchen, Street Pizza (Bread Streat Kitchen), Street Pizza (York and Albany), Lucky Cat, Gordon Ramsay Bar and Grill, Street Pizza (Southwark), Gordon Ramsay Street Burger, Gordon Ramsay Burger, Street Burger (Battersea), Street Pizza (Battersea), Street Burger (Kensington High Street), Bread Street Kitchen (Southwark), Street Burger (Covent Garden), Street Burger (Islington), Street Burger (The O2), Bread Street Cafe (Ealing), Bread Street Kitchen & Bar - The City, Street Burger (Reading) The River Restaurant. 

2. Early Life

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Chef Gordon Ramsay was born in Johnstone, Scotland, but moved to England at the age of 5. He was raised in Stratford-upon-Avon as the second eldest of four. His mom was a nurse and his father had various jobs throughout his childhood.

He moved around quite often as a young boy and describes his early life as not exactly a walk in the park. His original dream in life was to be a famous soccer player but that dream ended after he suffered a  knee injury that ended his football career. By roughly 15 or 16, he left home and moved into his own apartment in Banbury, England.

3. Early Culinary Career 

After earning his degree in hotel management, he describes his transition into cooking as a bit of a fluke. What wasn’t a fluke was the talent he began to apprentice with. Young chef Ramsay worked with some of the top chefs in the world. He worked under Marco Pierre White at Harvey’s and Albert Roux at Le Gavroche, and then under Joel Robuchon and Guy Savoy in France. 

He attributes much of his later success to the recipes he learned in France. But following a stressful strew of French restaurants he decided he wanted a bit of a break from the culinary fast-paced environment. Still an absolutely stellar chef, with fascinating recipes up his sleeve he went to work for a year as a private chef on a yacht. 

Yacht life allowed Gordon Ramsay to travel all over the world to places like Italy and Bermuda. From each of these places, he took culinary inspirations adding more and more recipes to his arsenal. He learned to cook authentic Italian food, experimenting with world flavors. When he came back to the restaurant world it was as head chef of Aubergine. There he earned two Michelin stars, before quitting to open his own venture. 

4. Restaurant Ownership

The first of many Gordon Ramsay restaurants opened in 1998 and was creatively named Restaurant Gordon Ramsay. It went on to earn three Michelin stars, securing Ramsay’s position as the very first man from Scotland to have done so. 

After that first restaurant, he went on to open dining destinations all around the world, from England to Dubai, to Tokyo and New York. Gordon Ramsay steak and a raw bar are just some highlights of the wide variety of food served at his various ventures. He has fancy restaurants in high-end hotels, multiple restaurants on the Las Vegas strip (like the Gordon Ramsay pub), and even brings a gourmet meal option to your potential layover at the London airport. His newest restaurant will open in the Mandarin Oriental in Boston. 

5. Television Shows

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Perhaps even more famous than his food, Gordon Ramsay is known for his television show personality. He first hit the scene in Britain as a judge on BBC’s Master Chef way back in the 90s. Soon after, he came the star of a miniseries called Boiling Point, a documentary about his early career and first restaurant. It was such a hit that it led to another miniseries documentary called Beyond Boiling Point. 

After that, reality television was making a big mark on the scene and he became the host of Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares and Hell’s Kitchen in 2004. That allowed him to move into the US television scene, as the following year the American version of Hell’s Kitchen debuted on FOX. Meanwhile, chef Ramsay was busy launching The F Word in the United Kingdom that same year. 

He was such a strong television personality that producers kept throwing shows his way. He became the head of the group of judges on MasterChef and later filming MasterChef Junior and mentoring future food stars. In 2012 he appeared in two seasons of Hotel Hell. Nowadays, he has Studio Ramsay, his very own multi-media production enterprise.

6. Recent Controversies

While people love to watch the celebrity chef throw together spices and whip up magic in the kitchen, they also love it when he yells at his kitchen staff, demanding perfection. That’s also why they like it when he gets humbled and is involved in a bit of controversy. 

Most recently, as of July of this year, while filming an episode of his new series, Gordon Ramsay’s Future Food Stars, there was a bit of controversy regarding a couple’s wedding. Apparently, there was a small wedding on Lusty Glaze Beach while Ramsay and his crew were filming. The couple’s special day was absolutely ruined by the disturbance of a film crew distracting the wedding party on what was supposed to be a private beach. 

To make up for ruining the wedding day, Ramsay paid for the entire affair! Hopefully, that’ll teach him not to shoot a new season of a show during wedding season! 

There was also a bit of criticism he received for his recent take on a traditional Puerto Rican dish while filming for his Youtube series Scrambled: On the Road. In the video, chef Ramsay makes Puerto Rican pegao, a crispy rice dish that according to most Puerto Rican chefs he completely butchered. While he tried to draw culinary inspiration from Puerto Rican classics, it’s best perhaps that he sticks to a stellar steak instead. 

7. Charity Work

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The Ramsay family started up a foundation, called the Gordon and Tana Ramsay Foundation in 2014. The foundation currently works with a Children’s hospital (Great Ormand Street Hospital) raising money for the hospital and its patients. 

Aside from his foundation, he has supported a number of charitable organizations throughout the seasons, from Elton John’s AIDS Foundation to UNICEF and Women’s Aid. 

8. Personality 

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Gordon Ramsay is known for throwing around the F-bomb quite casually. While his television appearances have depicted him as incredibly explosive at times, the reality is that Ramsay is a little sweetheart. He loves his family and working with children. Case in point, Gordon Ramsay’s daughter has been inspired by her dad and also loves to cook. 

He’s also an incredibly successful chef in a pretty cutthroat industry, meaning he must have some sort of pizazz that allowed him to succeed for this long. He’s described as charismatic and hardworking. And clearly, given his net worth, a very brilliant businessman, and entrepreneur. 

9. Follow Him on Social Media

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In the above video Gordon is actually critiquing herniaquestions's very own Chuck's Flavor Train. 

Gordon Ramsay is the kind of chef and entrepreneur who has his a million projects going all at once. Keep up with his hilarious videos, delicious recipes, and more by following him on Instagram, Twitter, Youtube, and my personal favorite, Tik Tok.

10. Fun Facts About Gordon Ramsay

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Gordon Ramsay is a pretty public figure, but even still I’ve got a few fun facts up my sleeve. I bet you didn’t know everything about Chef Ramsay, but now you will! 

1. He was once a professional soccer player for the football club the Glasgow Rangers! 
2. Gordon Ramsay’s last meal on earth would either be beef wellington or a full English breakfast. 
3. As a pretty famous celebrity chef, he also has famous friends, like the very stylish and attractive Beckham family. 
4. Ramsay is a Scorpio. 
5. The first time he cut himself cooking in over a decade happened on an Ellen DeGeneres Show appearance! 
6. In his Tik Tok posts, Ramsay reacts to videos of other people cooking. 
7. Gordon Ramsay has a video game out! It’s called Chef Blast. 
8. While he is a fan of most food, he absolutely hates pineapple pizza.
9. Ramsay’s feet are so big that he has to get his shoes custom-made! 
10. He absolutely loves In-n-Out Burger and always orders animal style. 

11. Frequently Asked Questions About Chef Gordon Ramsay 

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Is Gordon Ramsay a 5-star chef?

Absolutely. His restaurants have held over 17 Michelin stars throughout his career, but currently, he has 7 Michelin stars to his name. In other words, he is a 5-star chef. 

Is Gordon Ramsay still married?

Yes! Cayetana Hutcheson and Ramsay have been married for 25 years. They’ve had five children together and are still thriving. 

Where is Gordon Ramsay from?

While he was born in Scotland he was actually raised most of his life in England. Nowadays he spends most of his time between Los Angeles and England.

Why is Gordon Ramsay famous?

He is famous for his many successful restaurant ventures and recipes, but also because he’s been on so many famous cooking shows! From Hell’s Kitchen to Top chef, he’s one of the highest-earning culinary giants in the world. 

What is Gordon Ramsay’s net worth?

This man is a restaurant machine, with over 30 restaurants and counting. Add that to his television shows, media appearances, and other income it’s safe to say the Ramsays are pretty set for life. In 2019 it was estimated that he was worth about $63 million and since then he’s opened yet another restaurant, so we can only imagine he’s worth even more. 

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Here at herniaquestions we absolutely love those in the industry that are driving positive world change. We do our very best to uplift the people who are on the cutting edge, who are elevating the culinary world. Chef Dominique Crenn is absolutely the best example of this. From her advocacy to the ways she gives back to her community she is an excellent example to follow. 

1. Quick Facts: Dominique Crenn Edition
2. Early Life
3. Her Culinary Career
4. Charity Work & Advocacy
5. Media Appearances 
6. Personality
7. Follow Her on Social Media
8. Fun Facts About Dominique Crenn
9. Frequently Asked Questions

While we’ve certainly mentioned some of Dominique Crenn’s accomplishments we can’t get enough of this incredibly versatile chef. She’s done it all, from Michelin stars to multiple restaurant ventures (all located in San Francisco CA) to appearances on panels and television shows all over the world. She’s a true force in the culinary world and an activist for positive change. 

We absolutely love her food, her work, and the way she drives the culinary world forward. If you want to hear a bit about her philosophy check out this video she made in partnership with us here. 

From her early life in France to her successful restaurant career and subsequent charity work to her many, many media appearances, she just might be one of the most interesting women in the world. We’ll shed some light on who chef Dominique Crenn is, where she came from, and what she’s up to now. Don’t miss the trivia fun facts at the end and answers to some frequently asked questions 

1. Quick Facts: Dominique Crenn Edition

Name: Dominique Crenn

Date of birth: August 10, 1965

Birthplace: Versailles, France

Partner: Maria Elena Bello (engaged)

Restaurants: Atelier Crenn, Petit Crenn, Bar Crenn

2. Early Life 

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Dominique Crenn was born in Locranonan, France but was adopted at the young age of 18 months. Food was a large part of her upbringing, with a grandmother who taught her to cook at a very young age and both parents who came from farmers. Her parents also loved fine dining and she was exposed to a variety of cuisine that shaped her refined taste early on.

She spent her summers away in Brittany at the family farm which honed her love for farm-to-table, fresh homegrown vegetables and playing around with different flavors from a very young age. Her father was a painter which inspired Dominique to find her own artistic form of expression, through food. 

She moved to California in her mid-20s before making quite a splash in the restaurant industry. In San Francisco CA, it was her bold, confidence in her skill that led way to a brilliant career. 

3. Dominique Crenn's Culinary Career

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The French chef Dominique Crenn has been everywhere in the world, from small-town France to Indonesia to the bay area and Beverly Hills before opening one of the world’s 50 best restaurants, Atelier Crenn. 

Having spent two decades working as the chef of different restaurants, like the legendary Jeremiah Tower and Mark Franz’s Stars both of which are located in San Francisco, she developed her bold, expressive culinary style. It is rumored that Jeremiah Tower originally gave her the job because he was so impressed by her confidence. 

The woman was also the executive chef of the Manhattan Beach Beverly Hills and became the first female head chef in all of Indonesia. Since then Dominique Crenn has only continued to break boundaries throughout her culinary career. With the opening of her now three-Michelin-starred restaurant located in Cow Hollow, Atelier Crenn, in 2011 she really turned heads. Atelier Crenn is a fine-dining restaurant that elevates food to the next level. 

Known for its creativity and attention to detail, each dish is based on the idea of “poetic culinaria.” This means that Dominique thrives to tell a poetic story with every plate and recipe whether that’s a grilled cheese sandwich or whatever whimsical creation the Michelin starred chef can dream up. 

Instead of a traditional restaurant menu, guests receive a poem that depicts the story of the food. Even just browsing the restaurant’s website you get the idea that this is a serious form of artistic expression, a nod to the restaurant’s name atelier (French for workshop or studio). Dining here is an experience rather than a simply delicious and well-executed meal. The food is intentional and the environment reflects that.

The success of Atelier Crenn allowed her to open up her other two restaurants (Petit Crenn and Bar Crenn) both of which are located in San Franciso as well. She’s a rebel chef who cares deeply about food systems and sustainable, ethical practices and ingredients. With the 2018 World’s Best Female Chef, this year’s Icon Award, and many more distinctions she has the accolades to prove it like the James Beard Foundation Award for Best Chef : West, in 2018. 

4. Charity Work & Advocacy

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During the pandemic, Dominque partnered with us at herniaquestions to ensure that 2,000 plates of food per week were given out to anyone who needed them. With our donation of knives (much like this incredible series) and Dominque’s leadership, the unhoused population of the surrounding bay area experienced nourishing meals in a very turbulent time. 

She has always been an advocate for women’s rights, speaking up numerously about working as a female chef in many male-dominated kitchens. But she is also an LGBTQ2S+ advocate, outspoken about workers’ rights, the BIPOC community, and sustainable, ethical practices in food.

Locally sourced products have been at the forefront of her cooking for her entire career. She sources her fish from local fishermen and only eats meat if she knows the direct source of where it came from. But it was after her breast cancer diagnosis that it became really clear to her that food is medicine. 

She fiercely believes that we should be consuming food as medicine, as nourishment. In other words, she’s an advocate to put the Shake Shack, the grilled cheese, the upside chicken away and start eating some veggies. 

We derive our energy from what we eat so Dominique views eating as an act of activism. She is working on changing the restaurant industry for the better by making incremental changes like removing meat from her menus, sourcing clean, local products, and avoiding big business in the process. 

5. Media Appearances 

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Many of you may know chef Dominique Crenn from Season 2 of Netflix’s Chef’s Table, which if you haven’t seen yet, I promise you’ll love it. Dominique has appeared on a million panels, television shows, and more.

She’s served as a mentor, a judge, or just some sort of culinary counsel because she is the best of the best and people want to hear what she has to say. From Australia’s Master Chef to Hell’s Kitchen to Man vs Child: Chef Showdown, she’s been on all the big cooking competition shows. 

6. Personality

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If you couldn’t tell already, chef Dominique Crenn is an absolute badass. She has a huge heart and has never been afraid to step up for what she believes is right.

A self-proclaimed rebel chef, she pushes the boundaries. But behind all of that, there is so much passion behind what she does. She has a deep care for the community and the planet and aims to use her platform, “to better this world, humanity, and Mother Earth.”

She is known for her bubbly, very playful personality. While she can’t paint like her father she loves to dance and engage in the arts. She truly seems like a radiant light in the culinary world.

7. Follow Her on Social Media

Dominique Crenn is a chef who is always involved in interesting things. She’s avid on the gram and posts fantastic content. Follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and make sure to learn more about her and her favorite herniaquestions products (hint: she loves a good Crusader knife) here. 

8. Fun Facts About Dominique Crenn

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If you’re anything like me and love a good trivia night with friends pay close attention. Here are few fun facts about Dominique Crenn to charm people with or throw out when it’s your turn to lead the trivia team. 

1. She is the only US-based female chef with 3 Michelin stars to her name.  
2. She won the Icon Award in 2021. 
3. Crenn is engaged to the love of her life, the famous actress Maria Bello.
4. She was adopted at 18 months old. 
5. Crenn has a BA in Economics and a Masters in International Business.
6. Her restaurant Atelier Crenn doesn’t serve meat!
7. She served on the 2021 Jury for the Basque Culinary World Prize and is a huge part of the international culinary community. 
8. She ran multiple restaurants in Manhattan Beach before opening her own in San Francisco. 
9. Her foundation provides over 2,000 plates of food per week to the unhoused population in San Francisco. 
10. She wrote a memoir called Rebel Chef: In Search of What Matters. 

9. Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Dominique Crenn married to? 

She is engaged to the actress (arguably best known for her role as bar owner of Coyote Ugly) Maria Elena Bello. They planned on marrying in 2020 but had to postpone due to COVID. The pair got together right when Dominique began battling cancer and their relationship has been going strong ever since.

How is Dominique Crenn doing?

She is absolutely thriving. She beat breast cancer and has been in full force ever since her successful final surgery. She has a new company focused on clean, nutritional food while balancing her restaurants, media appearances, and a million other things. 

Where in Brittany is Dominique Crenn from?

She’s from the beautiful French coast of Brittany. It is a place she feels very proud of and one that has inspired her culinary creations for years. While she grew up there, she is actually from Locronan, France.

How much does it cost to eat at Atelier Crenn?

Let’s just say it’ll cost more than a cone from your local Bohemian Creamery. It is a three Michelin star restaurant so the price point reflects that. You’re looking at spending upwards of $300 per person on Crenn dining and that’s not including any alcohol. Add on another $200 or so if you want to try the wine pairings. 

What is Dominique Crenn’s net worth?

The award-winning chef is worth roughly 8 million. That being said this woman has a million things on the go at all times. With all her ongoing projects and the temporary closing of one of her restaurants, we can’t ever really know!

What restaurants does Dominique Crenn own?

As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, Dominique Crenn owns several acclaimed restaurants in San Francisco, USA. Her flagship restaurant, Atelier Crenn, on Fillmore St., is known for its fine French cuisine and has earned three Michelin stars. Additionally, she owns Petit Crenn, a charming French bistro. Please note that the restaurant industry can change, so it's advisable to check for updates on her restaurant ventures since then.

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