Roland Bui is many things and holds various titles, but among his most treasured occupations is that of a culinary connector, writes Earl Hopkins for The Philadelphia Inquirer.

In the role, he connects local chefs, business owners, and dining connoisseurs to bridge gaps between the groups.

“There are a lot of creative people and creative silos in the city, and they don’t necessarily interact or merge,” said Bui. “If you look at a Venn diagram, you have a lot going on in Philly. But what I see is a lot of people who should be talking to each other.”

Upon arriving to Philadelphia two decades ago to attend Drexel University, Bui quickly immersed himself in the city’s dining scene. Over the years, he’s established close relationships with chefs and forged connectors with others.

Originally from Brussels, Belgium, his experience growing up overseas sparked a desire to start something that placed Philly’s culinary artists at the center.

“It’s my interest to help better Philadelphia, and to offer more experiences that I want to go to and see,” Bui said. “I have amassed this network, but I’m happy to leverage it to create these experiences.”

Bui is often the face of dinner parties and ticketed celebrations that highlight seasoned or newly established chefs throughout the city.

Read more about Roland Bui and his culinary mission in The Philadelphia Inquirer.

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