Chair, Wolfgang Puck Worldwide Inc.
The famed chef leads Wolfgang Puck Fine Dining Group, Wolfgang Puck Catering and Wolfgang Puck Worldwide Inc. His empire includes more than 20 restaurants and licensed products such as packaged foods, wine and housewares. The Austrian, who moved to the United States at 24, made his mark in Los Angeles as chef and part owner of the Ma Maison restaurant. He opened Spago in 1982. Wolfgang and Spago earned many accolades during its 15 years in West Hollywood, including winning the prestigious James Beard Foundation Award for Outstanding Chef of the Year in 1991 and 1998, and the James Beard Foundation Award for Restaurant of the Year in 1994. In 1997, he moved the restaurant to a new location in Beverly Hills. Puck is a pioneer of California cuisine and has catered many high-profile events, including 30 consecutive years for the Governors Ball at the Academy Awards. Wolfgang Puck Fine Dining restaurants can be found in Beverly Hills, Las Vegas, Maui and London, among other cities.
What’s the best advice you ever got?
When I left my home at 14 years old, my mother told me, “You always have to make more money than you spend.”
What’s your favorite movie, all time and in any category?
I have many favorite movies over the years, but this year my favorite is “Oppenheimer.”
What’s at the top of your bucket list?
To visit India and Thailand, to taste the authentic flavors of the food there.
What was your first car?
A Triumph sports car.
Like to have it back?
Yes, why not! Just to drive up PCH on a sunny day.
What’s the best thing about living in Los Angeles?
Los Angeles is one of the greatest cites in the world, we really have it all here.
YEARS ON LA500: 9
