David Burke, who operates the Red Horse Steakhouse in Rumson, is one of 17 people included in the Hall of Fame’s 2025 class, which includes other members such as Dana Bash and the Jonas Brothers.

The class inductees were determined by public vote from a field of 240 nominees representing the worlds of music, hospitality, public service, sports and visual/performing arts. They will be formally inducted in a Nov. 21 ceremony hosted by Danny DeVito.

In addition to operating or directing the culinary component of over a dozen restaurants (six of which, and a bakery, are in New Jersey), Burke is also an author, artist, educator, art collector, baker and philanthropist.

He has an honorary Doctor of Business Administration from Johnson & Wales University, is a U.S. Patent holder, a Culinary Institute of America graduate and studied pastry at France’s famed Lenôtre Culinary Arts School.

Burke is also the only non-French person to ever be anointed with France’s highest award, Meilleurs Ouvriers de France Diplome d’Honneur, though he is most gratified by awards not of a culinary nature, such as being named one of Ernst & Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year for NJ in 2021 and now an induction into the NJ Hall of Fame in the enterprise category.

“As a proud Jersey boy, few things have ever pleased me more than the Hall of Fame honor.” said Burke, who is the principal of David Burke Hospitality Management (DBHM), “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 as the source of an extraordinary degree of innovation. This is a really big deal for me!”

Burke and his DBHM team manage, license and consult with restaurants, hotels, clubs and schools worldwide. They also oversee a growing roster of David Burke-branded products, including cookware, bakeware, steak sauce, cutlery and wine.

Burke is the first restaurant chef to become a member of the NJ Hall of Fame since its 2005 founding, and one of only three inductees who are celebrated for their cuisinary skills, the other two being Martha Stewart and Buddy Valestro.

“This year’s class of inductees reminds us of what it means to be Jersey strong and resilient,” said NJ Hall of Fame President Steve Edwards. “They showcase the incredible range of talent that has come out of New Jersey, from global icons in entertainment to pioneers in sports, public service, and enterprise. We’re proud to honor these heroes who inspire generations to be the best versions of themselves.”

An NJ resident since he was three years old, Burke currently lives in Atlantic Highlands where he oversees his operations in NJ, NY and North Carolina, with Florida in the near horizon when his new waterfront restaurant opens in Palm Beach County later this year.