Philippe Striffeler, Director of Food & Beverage, Hotel Nikko San Francisco
Since the age of 10, when he entered the hotel kitchen of a family friend, Philippe knew he would be a chef. Recognizing that the dining experience encompasses more than just enjoying food, he is driven to providing nothing less than the finest ingredients and creating each menu as though it was his first. President of the Chef’s Table, an active member of the Toque Blanche and a local radio personality, Philippe gives unstintingly of his time and talents to many local organizations, and has graciously donated his services to be auctioned off to raise money for the Red Cross Tsunami Victims of 2005 and Education in Africa, to name just a few. He has groomed and mentored associates who have moved on to head their own restaurants. Self effacing and humble although receiving countless awards and local celebrity chef status, Philippe’s standards are high, and his passion remains as infectious as that 10-year old boy’s.