Gregory Gourdet Biography

Fast Facts

• Attended the Culinary Institute of America, where he earned his AOS in Culinary Arts
• Developed his signature affinity for Asian cuisines and flavors while working at Restaurant 66, a modern Chinese eatery
• Discovered his passion for cooking while he was a pre-med student
• Was granted an internship at the Jean-Georges Restaurant Empire, and eventually worked his way up to Sous Chef there
• Became an executive chef at Departure Restaurant and Lounge
• Decided to test his culinary prowess by competing on season 12 of "Top Chef․"
• A health-minded individual, he is a triathlete, a marathon runner and a Bikram yoga devotee
• As a chef, prefers to offer diners gluten-free, vegan and paleo menus in addition to more traditional fare
• His favorite simple fall dessert recipe is for Pears Roasted with Ginger, Black Pepper and Cinnamon