Thomas Keller is internationally renowned for his innovation and dedication in his culinary pursuits. Born in Southern California and later moving to Florida, Keller began his culinary career, as a teenager, working in a Palm Beach restaurant managed by his mother.

His passion for cooking took him to France in 1983, to apprentice in the kitchens of Guy Savoy, Michael Pasquet, Gerard Besson, Taillevent, Le Toit de Passey, Chiberta and Le Pré Catelan.

Returning to New York City in 1984, he gained recognition at La Reserve and Restaurant Raphael, before opening his first restaurant, Rakel, in 1986. He received rave reviews for five years until he moved to Los Angeles as executive chef of Checkers Hotel.

Keller purchased The French Laundry in 1994, with the goal of creating a three-star country French restaurant in the heart of the Napa Valley. Keller credits his staff for the many accolades and rewards that the restaurant has received. The French Laundry Cookbook, authored by Keller, was awarded three 1999 International Association of Culinary Professionals awards, including Cookbook of the Year, as well as the 1999 Versailles Cookbook Award in Paris.

In 1998, Keller opened Bouchon, also located in Yountville. Keller has also delved into the world of wines. Modicum, a Napa Valley Cabernet, has been developed with French Laundry General Manager Laura Cunningham.