Stephen Starr

Stephen Starr is the founder and chairman of STARR Restaurant Group, a Philadelphia hospitality company that operates more than 40 acclaimed restaurants across the United States. The group's portfolio includes celebrated destinations such as Buddakan, Le Diplomate, Parc, Makoto, and Pastis, each known for distinctive design and immersive atmospheres.

Born in 1957 and raised in southern New Jersey, Starr attended Temple University before launching his career in entertainment. His first venue, a diner and comedy club called "Grandmom Minnie's," opened in Philadelphia's Old City. He followed with the cabaret "Stars," the concert venue Ripley Music Hall, and The Concert Company, which brought large-scale stadium acts to Philadelphia before being acquired by Electric Factory Concerts in 1990.

In 1995, Starr shifted from live music to restaurants, opening the Continental Restaurant & Martini Bar. The success of that concept launched STARR Restaurant Group and established his signature model: assembling world-class designers and chefs to create environments that surprise and delight guests. Today, the group spans Philadelphia, New York City, Washington D.C., South Florida, and Nashville.

Starr earned the 2017 James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurateur and has been named Restaurateur of the Year by both Bon Appétit and Zagat. His restaurant Le Coucou was named Best New Restaurant in 2017, and The Clocktower earned a Michelin star in 2018.