13) Thomas Keller
American chef, restaurateur and cookbook author Thomas Keller — the man behind the famous French Laundry in California, USA — began his career at the Palm Beach Yacht Club, followed by a stint at a small French restaurant in New York, then apprenticeships at various Michelin-starred outlets.
He opened The French Laundry in 1994 — in an old French steam laundry that had been converted into a restaurant.
The restaurant has since won numerous awards and accolades, including three Michelin stars.
Further outlets followed, including French bistro Bouchon, Bouchon Bakery, Per Se (also boasting three Michelin stars) and Ad Hoc.
Keller has also released several culinary books, including The French Laundry Cookbook, The Bouchon Cookbook and Under Pressure: Cooking Sous Vide.
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Sep 1, 2009 , United Arab Emirates
Wow, Thomas Keller only at number 13 will make for an interesting top 10!
Aug 31, 2009 , United Arab Emirates
Wow, just read the first half of the top 20 celebrity chefs and i loved it - really interesting. All those chefs are an inspiration. I can't wait to see the top 10.