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May 20, 1999
Web posted at: 5:49 p.m. EDT (2149 GMT)

Bobby Flay is the chef/owner of two Manhattan restaurants, Mesa Grill and BOLO, and Bobby Flay Catering. He is the author of three books, including "Boy Meets Grill" (Hyperion).

Flay, 34, started his career at 17 at Joe Allen's restaurant in New York. Allen was so impressed with Flay's natural ability that he paid Flay's tuition to the French Culinary Institute.

After graduation, Flay worked in New York kitchens. While working for restaurant owner Jonathan Waxman, Flay discovered three ingredients: black beans, cilantro and chiles.

Flay took his new ingredients to the Miracle Grill, where he caught the attention of restaurateur Jerome Kretchmere, who offered Flay the opportunity to open the Mesa Grill in 1991.

After a trip to Spain, Flay fell in love with the flavors of the Mediterranean and opened his second restaurant, the Spanish-inspired BOLO in 1993.

Flay's television career started in 1994 as co-host of Food Network's "Grillin & Chillin." In 1996, he moved to Lifetime television for his own show, "The Main Ingredient with Bobby Flay." Flay recently returned to Food Network for his newest show, "Hot Off the Grill With Bobby Flay."