Thought Leaders

Viking “Thought Leaders” are the chefs, growers, writers, oenophiles, travelers, and bon vivants who inspire us.  Here, you will find the people who share our passion for the good life as well as profiles, recipes, articles about or from these movers and shakers.

Thomas Keller Thomas Keller is one of the most recognized American chefs working today. He chose Viking Commercial for his newest restaurant, Bouchon in Beverly Hills. We share Chef Keller’s dedication to excellence and his lifelong commitment to the highest culinary standards. See more on Chef Keller and to find out why he chose Viking Commercial here.	Bruce Aidells Bruce Aidells is an innovator, gourmet,  award-winning cookbook author, and “Sausage King.” He founded Aidells Sausage Company in 1983and is a frequent contributor to many prominent food magazines.
Ina Garten Ina Garten traded the White House for a specialty food store, Barefoot Contessa, in the Hamptons and never looked back.  Today she is a cookbook author, TV personality, entrepreneur and maven of the good life.  Settle in with her “Roasted Butternut Squash Salad” here.	Giada De Laurentiis Giada De Laurentiis is one of the most recognized culinary figures in the world.  She is a classically trained chef, TV personality, cookbook author, and busy mom.  Her Italian heritage is as evident in her cooking as her discerning taste is in her kitchen.  Take a peek at Giada’s Viking outdoor kitchen here.
Anne Willan Ann Willan is an international culinary tour-de-force.  She was an associate editor at Gourmet Magazine and has written dozens of award-winning cookbooks.  Willan.  She is the leading authority on the cooking of France and its culinary history.  Bask in the glory that is her “Tomatoes with Goat Cheese” here.	Donald Link Donald Link is a James Beard Award winner. He is also chef/owner of legendary New Orleans restaurant, Herbsaint as well Cochon, Butcher, and most recently, Calcasieu.  Check out his highly-anticipated cookbook, Real Cajun: Rustic Home Cooking from Donald Link’s and see what mysterious ingredients lurk in his refrigerator.