Bob Waggoner Speaking Fee: $10,000 and Below

Bob Waggoner's culinary journey began in Southern California, where he developed a passion for cooking that led him to train under renowned chef Michael Roberts at Trumps in Los Angeles. Seeking to refine his skills further, he moved to France, immersing himself in the country's rich gastronomic traditions. There, he worked alongside esteemed chefs such as Jacques Lameloise, Pierre Gagnaire, and Gérard Boyer, gaining invaluable experience in Michelin-starred establishments. At the age of 23, Waggoner accepted his first head chef position at Members, a private club in Caracas, Venezuela. His international experience expanded when he returned to France to lead the kitchen at Hôtel de la Poste in Avallon. In 1988, at just 26, he achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first American to own a restaurant in France—the acclaimed Le Monte Cristo in Burgundy. His contributions to French cuisine were recognized when he was knighted with the "L'Ordre du Mérite Agricole" by the French government. Waggoner's career continued to flourish upon his return to the United States. He served as the executive chef at the Charleston Grill in Charleston, South Carolina, where he played a pivotal role in defining the city's vibrant culinary scene. His innovative approach fused Lowcountry cooking with French techniques, resulting in contemporary Southern cuisine that garnered critical acclaim. Under his leadership, the restaurant earned the Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence. Beyond the kitchen, Waggoner has shared his culinary expertise through various media platforms. He hosted the Emmy-winning television show "Off the Menu" and later opened "In the Kitchen with Chef Bob Waggoner" in downtown Charleston—a unique space offering interactive cooking classes inspired by local farmers, fishermen, and artisans. Through these endeavors, Waggoner continues to inspire and educate, fostering a deeper appreciation for Southern cuisine and its cultural roots.