Jean-Georges Vongerichten

Jean-Georges Vongerichten is one of the world’s most revered and best-known chefs, but his contributions to global cuisine extend far beyond the kitchen. A keen businessman and restaurateur, he is responsible for the operation and success of over 60 restaurants worldwide.

Born and raised on the outskirts of Strasbourg in Alsace, France, Jean-Georges grew up in and around the kitchen. Some of his earliest memories are of his mother’s cooking. At the age of 16, he began his culinary journey, washing dishes in a work-study program at Auberge de l'Ill as an apprentice to Chef Paul Haeberlin. He then went on to work under Paul Bocuse and Louis Outhier at the influential L’Oasis in Southern France. Following this impressive foray into the restaurant industry, Jean-Georges continued his training at the Oriental Hotel in Bangkok, the Meridien Hotel in Singapore, and the Mandarin Hotel in Hong Kong. Jean-Georges’ global travels inspired his love for the distinctive and aromatic flavors and ingredients of the East. After moving to New York, he opened his first restaurant JoJo in 1991. Over five decades later, his global footprint is unparalleled, with restaurants in 13 countries and counting, and one residence: Miami Tropic, created in partnership with Terra. An early produce enthusiast and an advocate for global flavors, Jean-Georges has revolutionized the way we eat.