Stefan Richter

Larger than life television personality and world renowned Chef, Stefan Richter has built his reputation on both his culinary talents and eccentricities. A natural in the kitchen and in front of the camera, Stefan made his television debut on Bravo's Award Winning, Top Chef: Season 5. He quickly stole the hearts and taste buds of viewers, with his tongue in cheek humor and uniquely exquisite dishes. A fan favorite and finalist in Season 5, Top Chef gladly welcomed the European Chef back for their 10th season. His Top Chef success ignited his acting career, landing a spot in Entourage: Season 7.

Stefan was born in Finland but spent the majority of his childhood in Germany, where he began culinary training in his early teens. He worked his way through various European kitchens, learning new techniques and collecting awards along the way. In 1998, he joined master chefs Grant McPherson, Sotta Kuhn, Jacques Torres, Jean Philip Maury and Marc Poidevin as part of the creative team for the opening of the Bellagio Hotel, Resort & Spa in Las Vegas.

He currently owns and operates several restaurants around the world including, Stefans Steak House in Finland, in 3 locations, his catering company, Stefan F. Richters European Catering, and Stefans at L.A. Farm in Santa Monica. Stefans at L.A. Farm has become a local favorite for Los Angelenos and industry Big-Wigs alike, boasting a flirtatious, German-Finnish menu, inspired by Stefan's heritage.

As Executive Sous-Chef, he created, developed and executed menus for the $25 million-dollar banquet kitchen. Since then, he has held a number of Executive Chef positions and most recently worked with Celestino Drago at Enoteca Drago before opening his own business, Stefan's Catering in Santa Monica.