East Brunswick's Orchard Park Owner Makes History As First Chef In NJ Hall Of Fame

EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ — East Brunswick restaurant owner David Burke has achieved a state honor with his induction into the New Jersey Hall of Fame's Class of 2025.

The internationally acclaimed chef, who operates Orchard Park in East Brunswick, was selected alongside 16 other distinguished New Jersey residents, including the Jonas Brothers and CNN's Dana Bash, in ceremonies announced June 23.

Burke's selection came through public voting from 240 nominees across music, hospitality, public service, sports, and the arts. The formal induction ceremony will take place November 21, hosted by actor Danny DeVito.

The restaurateur oversees more than a dozen dining establishments through his David Burke Hospitality Management company, with six New Jersey locations plus a bakery employing nearly 100 people statewide.

His accomplishments extend far beyond the kitchen—Burke holds patents, authored books, creates art, and earned France's prestigious Meilleurs Ouvriers de France Diplome d'Honneur, making him the only non-French recipient of this honor.

"As a proud Jersey boy, few things have ever pleased me more than the Hall of Fame honor," said Burke, who has called New Jersey home since age three and currently resides in Atlantic Highlands. "It's humbling to be included amongst the incredible range of intellect, talent and skill that have positioned New Jersey on the world's stage."

Burke particularly values recognition beyond culinary achievements, having been named Ernst & Young's Entrepreneur of the Year for New Jersey in 2021. His Hall of Fame induction comes in the enterprise category, making him the first restaurant chef honored since the organization's 2005 founding. Only two other culinary professionals—Martha Stewart and Buddy Valastro—have previously received this distinction.

The chef's empire extends globally through DBHM, which manages, licenses, and consults with restaurants, hotels, clubs, and schools worldwide. The company also oversees David Burke branded products including cookware, steak sauce, and wine. Burke plans to expand further with a new waterfront restaurant opening in Palm Beach County, Florida, later this year.

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