Richard Landau

Chef-Owner, Vedge, V-Street, and Fancy Radish; Philadelphia, PA

Richard Landau is the chef-owner of Vedge, V Street Food, and Fancy Radish. A pioneer of the modern plant-based dining experience, Richard opened Horizons in 1994, with a mission to demonstrate the creativity and satisfaction of vegetable cuisine. Through the many years in the restaurant industry, teaching and consulting, and media appearances including winning Food Network’s Chopped, Richard has used the carnivore’s palate he grew up with to translate vegan cuisine to a broader audience. In 2009 Richard and wife/partner Kate Jacoby cooked the first vegan meal ever served at the James Beard House in Manhattan. In 2011 they opened “Vedge” to national acclaim, and in 2016 the Philadelphia Inquirer awarded Vedge its top “4 bell” review. Richard has co-authored four cookbooks, including the most recent Vedge: 100 Plates Large and Small that Redefine Vegetable Cooking, and has been a finalist multiple times for the James Beard Foundation's Best Chef Mid Atlantic, as well as twice being named “Best Chef in Philadelphia” by Philadelphia Magazine. In 2001, Kate joined Richard at Horizons, honing her pastry skills and shaping her approach to desserts. A James Beard Nominated Pastry Chef and a Certified Sommelier, she also oversees the beverage program at all their restaurants and directs expansion for the group. When not in the kitchen, Richard and Kate love to travel with their son Rio, always on the hunt for their next great food experience. (Philadelphia, PA) @chefrichardlandau (Instagram)