David Maplethorpe
Executive Chef
Rex Restaurant, Billings, Montana

Though his training and experience have taken him all over the country, David Maplethorpe returned to Billings for good two years ago, resuming his position as Chef at The Rex Restaurant Bar & Grill. Since then, The Rex Restaurant Bar & Grill has been acknowledged by the National Cattleman's Beef Association as "2007 National Beef Backer Award for Innovator of the Year." This coveted award recognizes the efforts of owner, Gene Burgad, Chef David and the highly professional team at The Rex Restaurant.

A California-native, it wasn't until after he completed a degree in Political Science at the University of the Pacific at Stockton that Chef David decided he had to follow his passion for great food. He trained in the French style and was mentored by a French Chef in Denver, Colorado. David continued his education with the Culinary Institute of America both in Hyde Park, New York & Graystone in Napa Valley, California.

During his five-year hiatus Chef David helped a friend open the Dakota Chop House in Tyler, Texas where he served as Executive Chef and also worked as Executive Chef at Michigan Tech University. David never-the-less returned to Billings, once a year, to visit friends and to participate in the MSU-Billings Wine Fest's Rogue Chef's Dinner with Chef/Owner Carl Kuokawa of Juliano's Restaurant

In 2000 Chef David Maplethorpe was named Chef of the Year by the Montana Chefs & Cooks of Montana. David is very involved in this organization and enjoys mentoring all persons whom have a diligent desire to become a Chef in the future.