Curtis Stone is a world-renowned Australian chef, television personality, restaurateur, and author, known for his fresh and seasonal approach to modern cuisine. Born in Melbourne, Australia, in 1975, Stone honed his skills under legendary chefs like Marco Pierre White in London before gaining international fame. Stone’s approachable personality and passion for food have made him a beloved figure in both the culinary world and mainstream media. His career spans restaurants, television, publishing, and endorsements, marking him as one of the most versatile and entrepreneurial celebrity chefs today.
Restaurant Holdings:
- Maude – Curtis Stone opened his flagship restaurant Maude in Beverly Hills, California, in 2014. Named after his grandmother, the restaurant originally focused on seasonal tasting menus centered around a single hero ingredient each month. It later evolved into a destination for wine lovers, offering menus inspired by the world’s top wine regions. The restaurant has earned a Michelin star, solidifying Stone’s place in fine dining.
- Gwen Butcher Shop & Restaurant – Launched in 2016, Gwen is a butcher shop and restaurant in Los Angeles, co-owned with his brother, Luke Stone. The restaurant is known for its whole-animal butchery and European-inspired menu. Featuring a focus on high-quality meats, Gwen has become a major player in the Los Angeles fine dining scene, adding another layer to Stone’s culinary empire.
Media and Television:
Curtis Stone first became a household name with his television debut on Surfing the Menu, an Australian food and travel series. His global fame skyrocketed when he starred in Take Home Chef (2006-2008), a popular TLC show where he surprised shoppers and cooked meals for them in their homes. He has appeared on numerous American cooking shows, including as a judge on Top Chef Masters, and as the host of Top Chef Junior. Stone’s charisma and expertise have also led to guest appearances on shows such as Iron Chef America, The Today Show, and The Ellen DeGeneres Show.
In addition to his television work, Stone has been a regular face on cooking competition shows, including hosting Crime Scene Kitchen and America’s Next Great Restaurant. His media presence has been crucial in building his global culinary brand.
Publishing and Authorship:
Curtis Stone is a best-selling author with several successful cookbooks to his name. His first book, Cooking with Curtis, was published in 2005 and was followed by other popular titles, including Relaxed Cooking with Curtis Stone and Good Food, Good Life. His books emphasize easy-to-follow recipes with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients, making them favorites among home cooks. Through his cookbooks, Stone shares his philosophy of uncomplicated, flavorful cooking that highlights the natural quality of ingredients.
Endorsements and Brand Partnerships:
Curtis Stone’s approachable image and culinary expertise have led to a series of successful brand endorsements and partnerships. He launched his own line of kitchen products, Curtis Stone Kitchen Solutions, which includes cookware, kitchen tools, and appliances sold at major retailers like Williams-Sonoma and HSN. His product line has been praised for its practicality and high quality, becoming a go-to choice for both professional chefs and home cooks.
Stone has also partnered with airlines and hotels, creating in-flight menus for United Airlines and developing culinary programs for Princess Cruises, where his dishes are featured across the fleet’s restaurants. These partnerships have expanded his reach to a global audience, enhancing his reputation as an international culinary ambassador.
Speaking Engagements and Food Festivals:
Curtis Stone is a frequent speaker at top food festivals around the world, including the Aspen Food & Wine Classic, the South Beach Wine & Food Festival, and the Los Angeles Food & Wine Festival. His events typically highlight his expertise in seasonal cooking and the importance of sustainable food practices. Stone’s engaging presence and deep knowledge make him a sought-after guest at industry panels and cooking demonstrations, where he shares insights on running successful restaurants and creating accessible yet sophisticated cuisine.
Equity in and Other Ventures:
In addition to his restaurants and media career, Curtis Stone has diversified his business ventures. Alongside his brother Luke, he opened Gwen as a family-run business, emphasizing traditional butchery techniques. Stone also owns equity in various food-related businesses and continues to expand his culinary footprint globally. He is an advocate for sustainability in the kitchen and frequently partners with organizations that promote responsible sourcing and cooking practices.
Conclusion:
Curtis Stone has built an impressive culinary empire that spans high-end restaurants, television, publishing, and product endorsements. His commitment to fresh, seasonal ingredients and his passion for uncomplicated cooking have made him a standout in the culinary world. With Michelin-starred restaurants, a successful media career, and a growing business portfolio, Curtis Stone continues to be a powerful force in the food industry, inspiring both chefs and home cooks around the globe.
