Guy Fieri
Guy Fieri began his career in foodservice at the age of ten, selling soft pretzels in his 3 wheeled bicycle cart that he built with his father. The “Awesome Pretzel” as it was known by in his community was seen at almost every community event. While washing dishes and selling pretzels, Guy was able to earn enough money in 6 years to sponsor himself to study abroad in France.

While in France, he gained his true appreciated for food and culture. Upon returning to the States, he decided at the age of 17 to forego high school and begin Junior College. Guy attended University of Nevada Las Vegas in 1987 and worked as a plant supervisor in a meat distribution supplier. Upon graduating in 1990 with a degree in hospitality management, he was recruited by Stouffer restaurants to manage their flagship restaurant in Long Beach, CA.

After 3 years with Stouffers he was recruited by Louise’s Trattoria, as GM. There he was promoted as a District Manager of 6 restaurants and was in charge of recruiting and training the growing chain.

In 1996, Guy and fellow co-worker Steve Gruber embarked on their own restaurant concept, Johnny Garlic’s. Guy and Steve opened their first Johnny Garlic’s in the fall of 1996. They opened 2 more locations within the next 3 years, and then opened their catering division in 2001. Their most recent ventures, Tex Wasabi’s a sushi and southern BBQ style concept opened in the fall of 2003, and Russell Ramsay’s Chop House opened in the spring of 2004. Current plans are underway for an opening of their largest location, a Tex Wasabi’s in Sacramento in the fall.