Curtis Aikens

As one of the original celebrity chefs and a former host and founding chef of The Food Network, Chef Curtis Aikens has educated and entertained food lovers since 1988. Mentored by Julia Child, Chef Paul Prudhomme, The Green Grocer, Joe Carcione, and Edna Lewis, he is one of the few chefs featured in Julia Child’s kitchen at the Smithsonian. After learning to read at age 26 through Literacy Volunteers of America and the Marin County Free Library, Chef Curtis has authored seven books sharing his passion for the culinary world, along with his personal journey of struggle and success.

Curtis has hosted shows for ABC, including being a regular cast member on Good Morning America, and has been featured on many major networks including CNN, NBC, and CBS. He has hosted seven shows for Food Network and made live appearances around the world, including being the guest chef at the White House for three sitting presidents, both Democrat and Republican. Chef Curtis dispenses more than just food-related advice and recipes; he is a passionate advocate for literacy and a champion leading the charge against diabetes.

He currently lives in Novato, California, with his fiancée Lisa and runs a garden and culinary program for the Marin County Cooperation Team in Sausalito and Marin City. Chef Curtis’s personal motto is SpreadLove.