Puck, Wolfgang

Wolfgang Puck (1949–) is known as the shy chef who became an industry and the first chef to become a brand name. But there is more to Wolfgang Puck’s reputation than just dollars. By showcasing California’s bounty of high-quality, locally grown ingredients, Puck helped to create, along with Alice Waters, what is known as “California cuisine.” His cookbooks, syndicated food column, Food Network TV show, and restaurant and food-product empire have made Puck as famous as the movie stars he hosts at Spago, his award-winning Los Angeles restaurant.