The World's Most Influential Chefs

Having made his name with rustic yet refined seasonal cooking at Danny Meyer's Gramercy Tavern,Colicchiostruck out on his own with Craft. Here, he caused a splash by taking the ingredient-centered concept to extremes, serving minimally manipulated items on their own—family-style—and relying on diners to devise their own menus and even choose the sauces for each dish. With stripped-down decor to match the minimalist cuisine, Craft sparked a global trend and elevated Colicchio to Top Chef status.