Ben Ford, born on September 22, 1967, in Los Angeles, California, was destined for a life in the culinary world. Growing up as the son of Indiana Jones and Star Wars actor Harrison Ford and illustrator and cook Mary Marquardt, Ben was exposed to the world of creativity and food from a young age. His mother, who was a talented cook, often allowed Ben to assist her in the kitchen, sparking his passion for cooking.
Despite his love for cooking, Ben initially had different aspirations. He was an avid cook but attended college with dreams of becoming a professional baseball player. However, a series of injuries put an end to his baseball dreams. It was during a semester abroad in Europe that Ben discovered his true calling. Inspired by the diverse cuisines and flavors he experienced overseas, Ben decided to pursue a career in cooking.
With a newfound passion for cooking, Ben enrolled in the California Culinary Academy to hone his culinary skills. After graduating, he began working in various restaurants, gaining valuable experience and knowledge in the culinary world. Ben's dedication to using fresh and seasonal ingredients in his recipes set him apart, leading to the opening of his own restaurant, Ford's Filling Station.
Ben's restaurant, Ford's Filling Station, quickly gained popularity for its innovative dishes and commitment to using locally sourced ingredients. He became known for his adventurous cooking style, combining bold flavors and unique ingredients to create memorable dining experiences for his customers.
In addition to his work in the restaurant industry, Ben is also a published author. His cookbook, Taming The Feast: Ben Ford's Field Guide to Adventurous Cooking, showcases his creative approach to cooking and has garnered praise from culinary enthusiasts around the world.
Ben's passion for cooking has also led him to become a member of the American Chef Corps, a network of chefs dedicated to promoting culinary diplomacy. As a resource for the US Department of State, Ben uses his culinary expertise to connect people through the universal language of food.
Ben is a family man, with a wife named Emily and two sons, Ethan and Waylon. His love for cooking extends beyond his professional life, as he enjoys sharing his culinary skills with his family and teaching them the joy of cooking.
Ben's family has also grown with the addition of his stepmother, Calista Flockhart, following his father's marriage in 2010. Together, Ben's extended family continues to support and inspire him in his culinary endeavors.
With a career built on passion, creativity, and a love for good food, Ben Ford continues to make a mark in the culinary world, leaving a legacy of innovative cooking and culinary diplomacy.