Ben Chekroun is renowned and revered for his outstanding management skills within the hospitality industry and his exceptionally high standards of service. Ben’s philosophy is born out of years of executing service at the highest level. Mr. Chekroun began his career in hospitality while studying mechanical engineering in Paris. He waited tables to earn extra money in college and instantly fell in love with working within the service industry. In 1993, Ben was invited to join the team of the world-renowned restaurant, Le Bernardin. He worked closely with the owner Maguy Le Coze and chef Eric Ripert as a member of the executive team for over 27 years. Ben doubled the staff at Le Bernadin and pushed sales from $10 million to $22 million annually. Ben has been featured on multiple occasions inEsquire Magazine, Inc.com, New York Times, and many other top culinary publications.

While at Le Bernardin, the restaurant held a three-star rating from the prestigious Michelin Guide since 2005. Le Bernardin was reviewed on three different occasions by the New York Times while Benwas serving as Dining Room Director ultimately receiving four stars each review.  Le Bernardin has consistently been ranked in the top 20 best restaurants in the world by The World’s Best 50. La Liste, a global restaurant-ranking system from France, has also named Le Bernardin the best restaurant in the world for the last two years. While Ben was the dining room director, Le Bernardin also received the James Beard Award for outstanding service in 1999. On behalf of France, this year the French Consulate will present Ben as a Chevalier de l’ordre du mérite in recognition of his lifelong commitment to the traditions of French culture and gastronomy in America.

While at Le Bernardin, Ben re-envisioned the restaurant from its ceremonious French execution and transformed service into its current “congenial luxe” style. Ben’s ultimate pride stems from offering the guest their ultimate experience each time they enter a dining room. Ben believes that every guest is one in the same and relishes the concept that all patrons have an exceptional experience. Mr.Chekroun has truly mastered the art of combining technical service with humility and heart. Most important, Ben aspires for each and every guest to have a moment worth remembering throughout their lifetime. Ben provides a wealth of lifetime experience to those seeking to reengage and reimagine their hospitality businesses