I do realize that what may constitute 'celebrity' for some of these chefs is subjective--not all the names are extremely famous to non-chefs; all are famous in the culinary world, all have made multiple television appearances and written cookbooks--but not all have their own marquee show on any network. To me, these people have pushed the boundaries of cooking into public view and have helped spread their passion for good food to the masses.
My basic criteria for inclusion on my list:
•I had to be able to see them on tv, whether PBS or cable, on several occasions where they were the primary host.
•Read one of their cookbooks, an article they wrote, or I had worked with them personally.
•They should fit the 'celebrity' mold, aside from being famous in the culinary world, the avg. metropolitan American foodie should have heard of them.
This explains why there are dozens of amazing 'celebrity' chefs who are NOT on this list. Please read the title again.
: )