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 100 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. Puck is a pioneer of California cuisine and has catered many high-profile events, including 29 consecutive years for the Governors Ball at the Academy Awards.

YEARS ON THE LA500: 8