Marc Bernard

For over ten years Marc Bernard has been a part of Lettuce Entertain You. As one of the founders of Wow Bao, he is currently a partner and Executive Chef.

After graduating from Cornell University with a degree in business, Marc moved to Chicago. He worked at both the Board of Trade and at a nearby family-owned restaurant, but preferred the excitement of the restaurant where he went on to work for five years. Marc saw a position opening at LEYE’s Food Life and, realizing the opportunities offered by Lettuce, made the move.

At the opening of Wow Bao in 2004, Marc went to work with Bruce Cost and respected his passion for Asian cuisine, and his expertise. Bruce offered Marc a unique experience to expand his knowledge and Marc was excited to have his knowledge and experience pushed to whole new level.

After the first Wow Bao, Marc helped Bruce design and implement the food for Shanghai Circus (now Big Bowl Express) in Minnesota where he commuted for 2 years. Marc continues to be a partner in that concept.

After a stint at LEYE’s Petterino’s where Marc dramatically cut costs and improved the food, Marc is back at Wow Bao as Executive Chef and Partner, growing and running the concept. There are now 3 Wow Bao’s.

As Asian food has become his passion, Marc enjoys cooking and eating it at home. Marc particularly loves Red Cooked Pork and Roast Duck, using the bounty of his garden while spending time with his two daughters, Allie and Grace.