Chef Brian Malarkey is a celebrated chef-restaurateur and entrepreneur with a passion for creating memorable dining experiences and innovative culinary products. Throughout his career, he has developed over 15 successful restaurant concepts, including beloved brands like Searsucker and Herringbone, which he sold to the Hakkasan Group in 2012 for $25 million, leading to an expansion across the U.S. and internationally.

Raised on a ranch in Central Oregon, Malarkey’s love for food began early, inspired by fresh, local ingredients and summers spent near the coast. He refined his culinary skills at the prestigious Citrus in Hollywood, working alongside legends like Julia Child, which shaped his vision of bringing together fine cuisine, hospitality, and unforgettable dining experiences—a philosophy he later encapsulated in his cookbook, Come Early, Stay Late.

In addition to his restaurant ventures, Malarkey co-founded the Puffer Malarkey Collective, launching 10 diverse dining concepts in San Diego, including the acclaimed Herb & Wood, Herb & Sea, and Animae. His latest endeavor, Hawkeye & Huckleberry Lounge in Bend, Oregon, showcases his love for his hometown with a modern cowboy-inspired concept.

Malarkey’s culinary expertise extends beyond the kitchen to his latest venture, Chefs Life, a line of premium cooking oils designed to simplify the cooking process and elevate everyday meals. Developed with the home chef in mind, Chefs Life offers oils that are tailored for different cooking needs, from sautéing and roasting to finishing dishes with a professional touch. Inspired by his experiences hosting virtual cooking classes during the COVID-19 pandemic, Malarkey sought to create versatile, high-quality oils that make gourmet cooking accessible to all.

Known for his charismatic presence, Malarkey regularly appears on television as a judge on the Food Network’s Guy’s Grocery Games and Tournament of Champions and as host of Beachside Brawl. He has been a finalist on Top Chef and a mentor on ABC’s The Taste, showcasing his expertise to audiences nationwide. His media appearances also include segments on the Today Show, Good Morning America, and headlining food festivals across the country.

Outside of his culinary endeavors, Malarkey is a dedicated philanthropist, supporting organizations such as Golden Rule Charity, Rady Children’s Hospital, and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Balancing his time between San Diego and Central Oregon, he continues to innovate and share his love for food through every project, including Chefs Life, which embodies his mission to bring professional-quality cooking to home kitchens everywhere