Top 25 Wealthiest Chefs in 2024: Who Made the Billion-Dollar Cut?

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Many celebrity chefs have come along throughout the years. Whether introduced to the public through their popular restaurants or best-selling cookbooks, celebrity chefs and their food build a positive reputation among eaters, leading them to more and more opportunities to teach, inspire, and cook for people worldwide.

Cooking isn’t always lucrative, but some have broken through the threshold to earn millions during their career.

These chefs are so rich that not even Hawaii Regional Cuisine co-founder Alan Wong has made the list, despite many believing him to be a billionaire after confusing him with Chinese businessman Allan Wong. So, if not Wong, who is the wealthiest chef in the world? Let’s begin.

1. Kimbal Musk – $500 Million

Kimbal Musk is the world’s richest chef, with a reported net worth of $500 million.

Kimbal Musk with his sister Tosca Musk (L) and his mother Maye Musk (R)Kimbal Musk with his sister Tosca Musk (L) and his mother Maye Musk (R) at Passionflix’s Series “Driven” Season 2 Premiere at AMC Santa Monica 7 on July 17, 2021, in Santa Monica, California (Credit: MEGA / WENN)

Musk co-founded The Kitchen Community, a group of restaurants across the United States, a non-profit, and a website that provides guides, recipes, food substitutes, and more for its readers.

Kimbal Musk has gotten rich from his work as a chef, but that’s not where the bulk of his net worth comes from.

A major Tesla shareholder, Kimbal Reeve Musk is the richest chef in the world and married billionaire daughter Christiana Wyly in April 2018A major Tesla shareholder, Kimbal Reeve Musk is the richest chef in the world and married billionaire daughter Christiana Wyly in April 2018 (Credit: Avalon / WENN)

If the last name Musk sounds familiar, perhaps you’ve heard of Kimbal Musk’s brother, Elon Musk, one of the wealthiest men in the world. Tesla’s CEO is worth around $200 billion, and he’s let his brother in on the profits.

Kimbal Musk is a Tesla shareholder and a member of the Tesla Inc. and SpaceX board. He doesn’t have as much as his brother, but his stake in Tesla and his work make Him the wealthiest chef in the world.

The South African restaurateur is also a co-founder of Zip2, a technology company acquired by Compaq for $307 million in 1999.

On January 10, 2023, it was reported that Elon Musk had unfollowed his brother on Twitter. There is speculation that this could be related to pressure from the Tesla board. Kimbal sits on the boards of Tesla and SpaceX, both of which Elon is the CEO of.

2. Gordon Ramsay – $220 Million

Chef Gordon Ramsay is another British man who’s made enormous money by cooking. You could also say he got wealthy by yelling at people for making food he finds terrible.

Ramsay, reportedly worth $220 million, owns restaurants, writes, and, most notably, hosts his television show, Hell’s Kitchen.

Gordon Ramsay has been happily married to his wife Tana since 1996 and is the world's second-richest celebrity chefGordon Ramsay has been happily married to his wife Tana since 1996 and is the world’s second-richest celebrity chef (Credit: Avalon / WENN)

Ramsay’s shouting and critique are warranted, though. The chef has proven himself to be world-class and has stayed married to Cayetana “Tana” Elizabeth Hutcheson for over two decades. Ramsay has written multiple cookbooks and has a Michelin star, one of the highest honors for a chef.

Gordon Ramsay has managed to stay relevant for years, which may surprise some, but he continues to adapt with time. He’s found an entirely new generation to appeal to by rating dishes he sees made on the popular video-sharing app TikTok. Ramsay will stay relevant and prosperous for years by evolving with the times.

In a January 2022 interview with Thrillist, Gordon Ramsay said he has no plans to retire. He mentioned that he has much more to accomplish in his career, including collaborating with Bobby Flay.

3. Jamie Oliver – $200 Million

Fans of British chef Jamie Oliver might be surprised to know he’s the third wealthiest chef in the world, with an estimated net worth of $200 million.

Restaurateur Jamie Oliver is the third richest chef in the world, with a net worth of $200 millionRestaurateur Jamie Oliver is the third richest chef in the world, with a net worth of $200 million (Credit: Land Rover / WENN)

This substantial wealth primarily comes from his multifaceted career, starting with his breakout success as “The Naked Chef” in the late 1990s. This television show, featuring his simple, accessible cooking style, catapulted him to fame, leading to numerous spin-offs and appearances on other cooking programs.

In addition to his television career, Oliver has authored over 30 bestselling cookbooks, many of which have been translated into multiple languages, generating significant revenue. He has also owned and operated several restaurants, although many have faced financial difficulties and closures in recent years.

Oliver’s entrepreneurial ventures extend beyond restaurants and cookbooks. He has launched various product lines, including kitchenware, cookware, and food products, all contributing to his overall net worth. Furthermore, his endorsements, public speaking engagements, and digital content creation have added to his wealth.

4. Nobu Matsuhisa – $200 Million

Owner of celebrity favorite chain restaurant Nobu, Nobu Matsuhisa, is one of the richest celebrity chefs. With a net worth of $200 million, Matsuhisa has restaurants worldwide in locations such as Dubai, Tokyo, Monte Carlo, and Malibu.

Legendary Japanese chef Nobu Matsuhisa is one of the richest chefs in the world with a net worth of $200 millionLegendary Japanese chef Nobu Matsuhisa is one of the richest chefs in the world, with a net worth of $200 million (Credit: DJDM / WENN)

Nobu Matsuhisa is known for his signature blend of culinary styles, bringing Japanese and Peruvian influences into every dish he cooks.

Matsuhisa is also well known for his sushi. The star chef’s chain of eponymous restaurants, Nobu, serves delicious morsels of fish that even the biggest food critic wouldn’t turn down.

Through his decades of work serving food to gastronomists around the world and his stake in dozens of global restaurants, Matsuhisa has built an impressive fortune that rivals that of actors, athletes, and businessmen alike.

In addition to restaurants, Nobu has diversified into other ventures. They have launched a line of Nobu hotels known for their luxurious accommodations and signature Nobu dining experiences. Additionally, they have a range of Nobu-branded products, including cookbooks, sauces, and tableware.

5. Wolfgang Puck – $120 Million

Wolfgang Puck, the owner of several restaurants, author of notable cookbooks, and caterer for the Academy Awards, is worth $120 million after decades of work in the upscale service industry.

Puck, who studied in Monaco, has had an illustrious career. Not only has he guest-starred on television shows like Frasier and Las Vegas, but the chef also had his television show on the Food Network called Wolfgang Puck, which undoubtedly brought him loads of cash.

Austrian-American restaurateur Wolfgang Puck is one of the most successful chefs in the worldAustrian-American restaurateur Wolfgang Puck is one of the most successful chefs in the world (Credit: MEGA / WENN)

Puck continues to grow his empire, selling cookware, coffee, tea, and wine. With his many irons in the fire, it’s clear why Wolfgang Puck has such a laudable net worth.

In addition to restaurants, Puck has diversified his brand through various channels. He has a successful catering business, a line of cookware and kitchen products, cookbooks, and frozen pizzas. His media appearances, including hosting cooking shows and culinary events, further enhance his brand and income.

6. Rachael Ray – $100 Million

Celebrity chef Rachael Ray built her $100 million fortune by sharing recipes that can be made in no time on her bygone Food Network show 30-Minute Meals, despite continuously sending the message that she’s not a chef.

Despite her claim, she’s built an enviable fortune and an entire empire based on her original recipes, cookbooks, and television shows.

Wealthy celebrity chef Rachael Ray poses with her book, "Everyone is Italian on Sunday" during Pennsylvania Conference For WomenWealthy celebrity chef Rachael Ray poses with her book, “Everyone is Italian on Sunday” during the Pennsylvania Conference For Women at the Pennsylvania Convention Center on November 19, 2015, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (Credit: W.Wade / WENN)

Beyond television, Ray expanded her brand through various avenues. She launched her magazine, “Every Day with Rachael Ray,” authored numerous cookbooks, and developed product lines ranging from cookware to pet food.

Additionally, she hosted a syndicated daytime talk show, “Rachael Ray,” where she interviewed celebrities, discussed lifestyle topics, and featured cooking segments.

7. Emeril Lagasse – $70 Million

Known for kicking it up a notch, Emeril Lagasse has built a net worth anyone would be happy to have. After years of cooking on television, Lagasse is worth an estimated $70 million.

Born and trained in the United States, Lagasse moved to France to learn more about cooking before returning to the States to work at a restaurant in New Orleans, Louisiana.

After being nominated for Chef of the Year, Lagasse soon opened his own restaurant and later franchised to open multiple locations around the country.

American restaurateur and television personality Emeril Lagasse is known for his mastery of Creole and Cajun cuisineAmerican restaurateur and television personality Emeril Lagasse is known for his mastery of Creole and Cajun cuisine (Credit: DJDM / WENN)

It wasn’t long before Lagasse set up shop at Food Network, hosting Emeril Live for several years and entertaining people worldwide with his spunky attitude and lively demeanor while in the kitchen.

Beyond television, Lagasse has established a successful restaurant empire. He owns and operates several restaurants across the United States, including Delmonico Steakhouse, Emeril’s New Orleans, and Emeril’s Coastal Italian. These restaurants generate substantial revenue, contributing significantly to his overall net worth.

In addition to restaurants and television shows, Lagasse has authored numerous cookbooks, developed his cookware and food products, and appeared in films and television shows. He has also been involved in philanthropic endeavors, supporting culinary education and disaster relief efforts.

8. Bobby Flay – $60 Million

Grillmaster Bobby Flay makes the list of richest chefs with a net worth of $60 million. Flay is yet another celebrity chef to have opened restaurants around the country, making primarily casual fare but in an upscale, tasty way.

Flay’s rise to fame began with his appearances on the Food Network, where he hosted several successful shows like “Boy Meets Grill,” “Throwdown! with Bobby Flay,” and “Beat Bobby Flay.” These shows showcased his culinary expertise, particularly in grilling and Southwestern cuisine, and made him a popular figure in the food world.

Bobby Flay has collaborated with the Food Network for several decades and is one of the world's richest chefsBobby Flay has collaborated with the Food Network for several decades and is one of the world’s richest chefs (Credit: MEGA / WENN)

He also opened numerous restaurants, including Mesa Grill, Bar Americain, Bobby’s Burger Palace, and Gato. While some of these have closed over the years, his restaurants have been successful overall, contributing significantly to his net worth.

In addition to television and restaurants, Flay has authored over a dozen cookbooks, launched his own line of pet food, and even dabbled in horse racing. His diverse ventures and brand endorsements have further added to his wealth.

Flay’s time on television hasn’t been limited to the Food Network. He’s also guest-starred on Law and Order: Special Victims Unit, Entourage, and the Disney Channel original movie Eddie’s Million Dollar Cookoff, to name a few.

His years of work on the silver screen have led him to the enormous fortune he undoubtedly enjoys today. He’s also famous for his numerous romantic relationships and friendship with Giada De Laurentiis.

9. Ina Garten – $60 Million

Better known as the Barefoot Contessa, Ina Garten has been cooking on television for years, making mouths water with her delicious recipes and showing everyone how to properly host a party with her darling tablescapes and unmatched themes.

Garten didn’t start her career as a chef, though. Her background is in policy, as she wrote papers on energy and nuclear power for presidents Jimmy Carter and Gerald Ford.

She flipped houses on the side to earn extra money and used the profits to open her first store, The Barefoot Contessa Specialty Store.

Television host Ina Rosenberg Garten with her husband, American economist and academic Jeffrey E. GartenTelevision host Ina Rosenberg Garten with her husband, American economist and academic Jeffrey E. Garten (Credit: Sheri Determan / WENN)

After making a name for herself as the Barefoot Contessa and selling cookbooks under the same name, Garten joined the Food Network.

Since then, her highly-rated recipes have been made in homes worldwide, likely made using her specialty cookware.

Garten still sells cookbooks, and she sells premade dinners for sale at grocery stores. Through those sales and the sales of her cookware, the Barefoot Contessa is worth $60 million, and even more thanks to her husband Jeffrey Garten’s success as an investment banker.

10. Guy Fieri – $50 Million

The Mayor of Flavortown himself, spiky-haired chef Guy Fieri, proved to the nation that it’s possible to have a successful career after winning a competition show.

After his run on The Next Food Network Star, Fieri remained with Food Network to host his successful television show, Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, introducing America to restaurants off the beaten path worth visiting.

The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce honored wealthy celebrity chef Guy Fieri with the 2,664th star on the Hollywood Walk of FameThe Hollywood Chamber of Commerce honored wealthy celebrity chef Guy Fieri with the 2,664th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on May 22, 2019, in Los Angeles (Credit: Nicky Nelson / WENN)

Guy Fieri is worth an estimated $50 million, partly due to his other ventures, such as his tequila company and cookbooks.

Fieri made major headlines when he signed a three-year contract with Food Network for $80 million, making him the highest-paid television chef in the world.

Other chefs on this list might have more money, but they don’t have that title. And if Fieri continues down this same path, he can expect to move higher up the list in no time.

11. Jose Andres – $50 Million

Tied with a few others, chef Jose Andres has a net worth of $50 million. Born in Spain, Andres has restaurants around the United States, including one in Dorado, Puerto Rico, and his newest one in Dubai at Atlantis the Royal.

Andres is known for his Spanish-style food, and many credit him with popularizing tapas in the United States. The chef values quality ingredients, and he sells his high-quality food around the world.

Chef Jose Andres (L) and actor Lin-Manuel Miranda attend The Shops & RestaurantsChef Jose Andres (L) and actor Lin-Manuel Miranda attend The Shops & Restaurants at Hudson Yards Preview Celebration on March 14, 2019, in New York City (Credit: Ivan Nikolov / WENN)

Andres is continually opening restaurants, and his gourmet food shop, Goldbelly, continues to expand. However, Andres doesn’t keep all of his money.

Beyond his restaurants, Andrés is also known for his humanitarian work. He founded World Central Kitchen, a non-profit organization that provides meals to communities affected by natural disasters and humanitarian crises. This organization has gained global recognition for its rapid response and effective aid delivery, further enhancing Andrés’ reputation and influence.

Additionally, Andrés has authored several cookbooks, appeared on television shows, and received numerous awards for his culinary achievements and humanitarian efforts. He is a vocal advocate for food security, immigration reform, and social justice, using his platform to raise awareness and drive change.

12. Ree Drummond – $50 Million

If you think you’ve never heard of Ree Drummond, perhaps you know her by a different name – The Pioneer Woman.

This blogger-turned-chef is worth $50 million, which isn’t bad for starting her career posting recipes online. With her signature red hair, Drummond brings her recipes to life on the Food Network on her show, The Pioneer Woman, which has the same name as her blog.

Drummond shares her cooking tips and family recipes through her show, often featuring hearty, comfort food dishes. Her relatable approach and charming personality have made her a popular figure, contributing to the success of her brand.

Best known for her blog The Pioneer Woman, television chef Anne Marie "Ree" Drummond lives on a working ranch outside of Pawhuska, OklahomaBest known for her blog, The Pioneer Woman, television chef Anne Marie “Ree” Drummond lives on a working ranch outside of Pawhuska, Oklahoma (Credit: PNP / WENN)

In addition to her television show and cookbooks, Drummond has expanded her brand through various ventures. She has a line of cookware, kitchenware, and home decor products, as well as a magazine and several restaurants.

Furthermore, Drummond and her family own a significant amount of land in Oklahoma, estimated to be over 433,000 acres. This extensive landholding, primarily used for cattle ranching, contributes to her family’s overall wealth.

13. Julia Child – $50 Million

While Julia Child may have died in 2004, she left a lasting impression on the culinary world as a chef and teacher by bringing French cuisine to the American public with her first cookbook, Mastering the Art of French Cooking, published in 1961.

At the time of her death, Child had a net worth of $50 million. She learned to cook in her 30s when she studied at the Cordon Bleu cooking school in Paris, where she and her husband lived. She wrote many books, including a memoir of her time in France.

Julia Child is recognized for bringing French cuisine to the American public with her first cookbook, Mastering the Art of French Cooking, and her TV program The French ChefJulia Child is recognized for bringing French cuisine to the American public with her first cookbook, Mastering the Art of French Cooking, and her TV program The French Chef (Credit: WGBH-TV)

In 1982, she was offered her own TV series, The French Chef. She would star in several more cooking shows, win multiple awards, including a Peabody and Primetime Emmy Award, and receive honorary doctorates from several universities.

A movie about her life, Julie & Julia, starring Meryl Streep, was released in 2009.

14. Thomas Keller – $50 Million

Thomas Keller is best known for his high standards, cookbooks, and a chain of high-end restaurants, such as The French Laundry, Per Se, Bouchon Bistro, and Ad Hoc.

The American chef, who has a net worth of $50 million, started his love affair with food at a young age when he worked in a restaurant in Palm Beach that his mother managed.

Thomas Keller holds a total of seven Michelin stars for his high-end restaurants: three at Per Se, three at The French Laundry, and one at BouchonThomas Keller holds a total of seven Michelin stars for his high-end restaurants: three at Per Se, three at The French Laundry, and one at Bouchon (Credit: Kathy Hutchins / Shutterstock)

His first restaurant, Rakel, was opened in New York City in 1986, and from there, he started a long list of successful restaurants across America.

He’s authored several award-winning cookbooks, including The French Laundry and The Bouchon Cookbook. He believes in teaching and offers three Masterclass courses.

Keller has also worked on movie sets as a consultant, teaching Adam Sandler to make the perfect sandwich in Spanglish, as well as working on the film Ratatouille.

15. Vikram Vij – $50 Million

Vikram Vij is an Indian-born Canadian chef with a net worth of $50 million. At the age of 20, he left his home in India to study hotel management in Austria.

A Canadian hotelier tasted his culinary creations and insisted he come to Canada. After immigrating to Alberta in 1989, he opened his first restaurant, Vij’s, in Vancouver in 1994.

Vikram Vij owns four restaurants: Vij's Restaurant, Rangoli Restaurant, My Shanti, and mobile food truck Vijs' Railway ExpressVikram Vij owns four restaurants: Vij’s Restaurant, Rangoli Restaurant, My Shanti, and mobile food truck Vijs’ Railway Express (Credit: Cooking With Vikram Vij / YouTube)

Based on Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy that all are equal, the restaurant has a strict no-reservation policy. As such, the restaurant sees people queuing up to sample his excellent food, including celebrities like Harrison Ford and Pierre Trudeau.

Vikram Vij is a chef, restaurateur, and author who owns four restaurants in Vancouver, British Columbia: Vij’s, My Shanti, Vij’s Railway Express, and Vij’s at the Fairmont Pacific Rim. He is also the co-founder of Bombay Frankies, a fast-casual Indian restaurant franchise.

In addition, he has a gourmet food truck that travels around Vancouver and a line of pre-packaged curries based on the best-selling dishes from his restaurants. He is also a regular judge on the Canadian version of “Dragon’s Den,” where he invests in promising start-up businesses.

16. Levi Roots – $45 Million

The British Jamaican musician Levi Roots is known for creating Reggae Reggae Sauce, for which he received £50,000 in funding from the UK reality TV series Dragon’s Den. Sainsbury agreed to distribute his jerk barbecue sauce in 600 of their stores.

Reggae musician Levi Roots is known for his creation of the Reggae Reggae jerk barbecue sauceReggae musician Levi Roots is known for his creation of the Reggae Reggae jerk barbecue sauce (Credit: Featureflash Photo Agency / Shutterstock)

With a net worth of $45 million, Roots is a television personality, celebrity chef, and businessman who has authored the Levi Roots’ Reggae Cookbook and Caribbean Food Made Easy.

He has appeared on reality TV shows Celebrity Mastermind and Big Brother and his own show, Caribbean Food Made Easy. His career as a musician also includes singing a rendition of “Happy Birthday, Mr. President” to Nelson Mandela in 1992.

17. Marco Pierre White – $40 Million

Known for his controversial ways, Marco Pierre White remains a standout name on the culinary scene despite retiring as a chef in 1999.

He has a net worth of $40 million. He began his career as a kitchen apprentice at the Hotel St. George in Harrogate. At 24, he became a shareholder and head chef at Harveys in 1986. He quickly transformed the upmarket burger bar into a sophisticated restaurant.

Australian competitive cooking game show MasterChef AustraliaAlso known as a judge on the Australian competitive cooking game show MasterChef Australia, in 1992 Marco Pierre White became the first British chef, and the youngest chef at the time, to be awarded three Michelin stars (Credit: MasterChef Australia / YouTube)

As a chef, he was awarded 3 Michelin stars, all before 33. After 17 years, he returned his Michelin stars and retired from the kitchen, becoming a restaurateur.

Despite retiring from the kitchen, White has remained a prominent figure in the culinary world. He has mentored several renowned chefs, including Gordon Ramsay, and appeared on television shows like “Hell’s Kitchen” and “MasterChef Australia.”

18. Curtis Stone – $36 Million

The Australian chef Curtis Stone has an estimated net worth of $36 million. He is most famous as a celebrity chef and television personality.

He owns restaurants, has authored cookbooks, and starred in several wildly successful cooking shows, including the Australian TV show Surfing the Menu and the TLC show Take Home Chef.

Australian celebrity chef and restaurant owner Curtis Stone has been the fresh food and recipes ambassador for Coles Supermarkets in Australia since 2010Australian celebrity chef and restaurant owner Curtis Stone has been the fresh food and recipes ambassador for Coles Supermarkets in Australia since 2010 (Credit: Lev Radin / Shutterstock)

In addition to his media presence, Stone owns several restaurants in Los Angeles, including Gwen Butcher Shop & Restaurant and Maude Restaurant. These establishments have garnered critical acclaim and contribute significantly to his net worth.

Other sources of income include his product line, which includes cookware, kitchen tools, and food products, as well as his various brand partnerships and endorsements.

19. Giada De Laurentiis – $30 Million

With a net worth of $30 million, Giada De Laurentiis is best known for her Food Network shows Everyday Italian and Giada at Home.

She is an Italian-American chef, TV personality, author, restauranteur, and businesswoman. She first gained recognition from the Food Network as a food stylist for a piece she styled in the Food & Wine magazine.

Italian chef Giada De Laurentiis owns three restaurants: Giada and Pronto by Giada on the Las Vegas strip and GDL Italian by Giada in the Horseshoe Casino in BaltimoreItalian chef Giada De Laurentiis owns three restaurants: Giada and Pronto by Giada on the Las Vegas strip and GDL Italian by Giada in the Horseshoe Casino in Baltimore (Credit: Debby Wong / Shutterstock)

The Food Network offered her a show, Everyday Italian, which aired in 2003. Since her first show, she has hosted several more award-winning TV shows and made appearances in other reality TV shows.

She recently announced her departure from the Food Network, but you’ll still be able to pick up all her tips and tricks from her website – Giadzy. The Italian-American chef also just signed a deal with Amazon to develop and be an executive producer of unscripted programming.

Her other ventures include several successful restaurants and collaborations with the Barilla Group on a line of Italian gourmet pasta and Target for a line of kitchen utensils.

20. Rick Bayless – $30 Million

Specializing in traditional Mexican cuisine with a modern take, Rick Bayless is an American chef and restauranteur with a net worth of $30 million.

He owns many restaurants throughout the United States and has authored nine best-selling cookbooks, including Mexico: One Plate at a Time, nominated for a James Beard Award.

Chef Rick Bayless owns multiple Mexican-inspired restaurants in Chicago and is best known for his PBS series Mexico: One Plate at a TimeChef Rick Bayless owns multiple Mexican-inspired restaurants in Chicago and is best known for his PBS series Mexico: One Plate at a Time (Credit: Rick Bayless / YouTube)

Bayless starred in the PBS series of the same name and has won numerous awards for his cookbooks and television series.

The award-winning chef also has a business venture with the Jollibee Group for Tortazo. One of the Mexican fast-casual restaurants is in Chicago, and the other two are in New York—one is right in the middle of Times Square.

In 2008, he was considered for the White House Executive Chef position. In 2015, Bayless was awarded the Julia Child Foundation Award, which is given to “an individual who has made a profound and significant impact on the way America cooks, eats, and drinks.”

The Government of Mexico also awarded him the Mexican Order of the Aztec Eagle, the highest decoration that can be bestowed on foreigners.

21. Mario Batali – $25 Million

Mario Batali is worth $25 million. At the height of his culinary career, he ran an empire that included cookbooks, restaurants worldwide, food products, and many television appearances.

Celebrity chef Mario Batali has given up ownership of his restaurant empire following multiple accusations of sexual assault against him in 2017Celebrity chef Mario Batali has given up ownership of his restaurant empire following multiple accusations of sexual assault against him in 2017 (Credit: Sam Aronov / Shutterstock)

At the beginning of his career, he worked as a chef and opened Pó, an Italian restaurant in New York City. He later formed the Batali and Bastianich Hospitality Group with Joe and Lidia Bastianich.

In 2019, he sold his stake in the company after sexual harassment allegations were made against him in 2017. The lawsuits with two women were settled last year on undisclosed terms.

At the height of his culinary empire, he won multiple awards and accolades and starred in TV series, including Molto Mario.

22. Alice Waters – $20 Million

Alice Waters is a celebrity chef with a net worth of $20 million. She opened her restaurant, Chez Panisse, in 1971 and is considered a pioneer in farm-to-table cuisine.

American chef, restaurateur, and author Alice Waters is famous for popularizing the concept of market-fresh cooking, using the local products available in Northern CaliforniaAmerican chef, restaurateur, and author Alice Waters is famous for popularizing the concept of market-fresh cooking, using the local products available in Northern California (Credit: Debby Wong / Shutterstock)

She has written several cookbooks that advocate cooking with organic ingredients, which have won numerous awards. Her restaurants and food activism are a large proponent of the slow food movement.

23. Charlie Ayers – $20 Million

Charlie Ayers’s net worth is $20 million. He began his culinary career working for Hilton Hotels in New Jersey. From 1986 to 1995, he served as chef for the Grateful Dead band.

Chef Charlie Ayers is the former executive chef for Google and reportedly earned $26 million from his Google stock optionsChef Charlie Ayers is the former executive chef for Google and reportedly earned $26 million from his Google stock options (Credit: CGTN America / YouTube)

In 1999, he decided to leave catering for touring bands behind and became a corporate chef at Google. As part of his compensation, he received 40,000 company shares, which eventually ballooned in value to an impressive $26 million when Google went public. This windfall contributed significantly to his overall wealth.

After leaving Google in 2005, he wrote a best-selling cookbook, consulted for tech firms, and opened Calafia Café / Calafia Market in 2009. He closed his restaurant in 2018.

24. Christopher Kimball – $20 Million

Christopher Kimball, who has a net worth of $20 million, is a radio and television personality, author, editor, and chef. He began working at a publishing company and later formed Cook’s Magazine after securing $100,000 from angel investors.

In 1989, he sold the magazine to the Bonnie Group. Kimball co-founded America’s Test Kitchen, which produces television and radio shows and publishes magazines. Magazines for the company included Cook’s Illustrated and Cook’s Country.

Christopher Kimball co-founded America’s Test Kitchen, created Christopher Kimball's Milk Street, and authored several cook booksChristopher Kimball co-founded America’s Test Kitchen, created Christopher Kimball’s Milk Street, and authored several cookbooks (Credit: Joe Seer / Shutterstock)

He hosted several TV shows, including America’s Test Kitchen and Cook’s Country. He left America’s Test Kitchen in 2015 and created Christopher Kimball’s Milk Street in 2016. He has also authored several books throughout his career: Dear Charlie and The Cook’s Bible.

25. David Chang – $20 Million

David Chang is the founder of the Momofuku restaurant group and has a net worth of $20 million. The restaurant group started with the Momofuku Noodle Bar in the East Village in 2002 and has expanded to international locations.

Momofuku restaurant group founder David Chang is also known for producing and starring in several Netflix shows, including Ugly DeliciousMomofuku restaurant group founder David Chang is also known for producing and starring in several Netflix shows, including Ugly Delicious (Credit: Kathy Hutchins / Shutterstock)

In addition to a successful restaurant empire, he has a television career that includes The Mind of a Chef and several Netflix shows such as Ugly Delicious, The Chef Show, and Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

The Netflix shows have proven to be very successful and complement the numerous awards he has received throughout his career.