Stephen Asprinio

Stephen Asprinio is an American restaurateur, sommelier, chef, and former contestant on the reality TV show Top Chef. His time on the show was marked by his appearance during its first season, during which he made it to the final five. Asprinio also appeared on "Top Chef: All Stars" in 2010, but his journey ended in the third episode.

Asprinio began his culinary training at the age of 14 and has collaborated with top restaurateurs and renowned chefs across the country over the years. His experiences include working with celebrated figures like Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto at Nobu in New York City, Drew Nieporent at Lucca in the Boca Resort & Club, and Chef Michael Mina at NobHill in the MGM Grand Hotel & Casino as Wine Director. Remarkably, Asprinio managed two wine programs at Caesar's Palace in Las Vegas when he was just 22 years old.

At the age of 26, Asprinio launched his first restaurant, Forté di Asprinio, earning the title of "One of the Top 10 Best New Restaurants in the United States" by the Gayot Restaurant Guide. This establishment received a multitude of awards and accolades, establishing Asprinio's presence in the culinary world. He further expanded his repertoire by partnering with Nestlé Nespresso in 2009, becoming the first representative and brand ambassador for Nespresso USA. In 2012, he added winemaker to his list of accomplishments with the creation of Finezza di Asprinio, a non-vintage, extra brut-style sparkling wine, a collaboration with Cantina Grotto de Sole in Campania, Italy.

In addition to his television appearances on "Top Chef," Asprinio has been featured on ABC's "The View," NBC's "The Today Show," and in numerous national publications related to food, wine, lifestyle, and travel. He has also written a book, "Eat & Drink Until You Die: A Man’s Essential Guide to Food, Booze & Entertaining," published in 2016. Asprinio currently resides in New York City, where he runs his hospitality firm, S.A. Hospitality Innovations.