Less than a week ago, Eitan Bernath turned 21. Like most people, he celebrated with a cocktail. But unlike many people, he didn’t wake up with a hangover; he woke up to a staff of seven and a full day of tasks which have helped create his burgeoning media empire. By the time he hit that milestone he had garnered more than 10 million followers across his social media platforms and three billion annual video views. Billions. He’s a You Tube and Tik Tok sensation, has a regular spot on television, is a contributor to numerous publications, and has put out a popular cookbook. Many people his age are lucky if they make it to class on time or keep their job at a local coffeeshop. And guess what? He is not just doing all of those things; he is damned good at it too.
In 2022, Bernath made Forbes 30 Under 30 in Food and Drink—the youngest ever on the list—at just 19. In 2021, he made the Forbes Next 1000 List. And although just now 21, he’s been at his passion and career now for a decade having made his television debut on Food Network’s Chopped at 11. Kitchens, cameras, and televisions—Bernath was made for media.
With mounds of charisma, and an almost encyclopedic knowledge of all things food related, the camera simply loves him. “I am first and foremost an entertainer; I love to perform,” he says. Well, Eitan, that is as clear as day. The world of scrollers and home cooks are lucky to have him. He looks right into the camera with a “Let’s just see what happens” attitude and endless pep in his step.
On any given day, he is testing recipes, filming content, sitting for interviews, or sharing a stage with Drew Barrymore as her show’s culinary director. Once you learn that he began delving into everything about food at eight years old, a time when many kids become serious about sports or video games, his wisdom becomes a little more understandable, and yet, no less impressive.
From poring over cookbooks and documentaries to using the inspiration he gained from his family’s weekly visits to Indian restaurants around the tri-state, he says his family has always been very supportive of his interests. They gave him the green light to take his passion and run with it. So much so, that when he first asked his mom to make dishes he found intriguing, instead of an “Ok, Honey,” she encouraged him to get in the kitchen and do it himself. Flash forward to today, and he has never left. Bernath has found an immense amount of success amongst his pots and pans.
Just shy of one-year ago, Eitan Eats the World, (May 2022) hit bookshelves with a bang. Published by Penguin Random House, the cookbook includes 85 of Bernath’s favorites from everyone’s comfort food cravings to more challenging dishes from around the globe. Whether it’s a twist on a burger or a jeweled Tahdig, readers and home cooks can sense his enthusiasm and hear his “can do” sensibility jumping from the page. “Eitan has set the bar when it comes to his cooking style,” says Drew Barrymore. “I love his pace and energy and I believe he inspires a whole new generation to approach food with curiosity and passion. His skillset and joy make a perfect combination!” Bernath and Barrymore will add another year to their partnership as The Drew Barrymore Show was just picked up for fourth season.
Eitan Eats the World cookbook (May 2022) .
Eitan Productions
The latest on his docket? Philanthropy and travel. Just honored with the title, High Level Supporter by the United Nations World Food Programme, Bernath is thrilled to carve out time for more serious, educational content. He’s particularly focused on food insecurity at home and abroad and has already started making longform content to spread awareness. He recently returned from a trip to India and knows his level of visibility can make an impact. But not everyone has millions of followers, so when asked about what everyday people can do, Bernath said, “Small acts can have large rippling effects for the people you help feed.” He continued, “Unfortunately, food insecurity happens across oceans and on our own streets, but there are so many ways to make an impact. From donating extra cans of food from your pantry to donating your time to a local organization.”
Closer to home, Bernath also continues to be involved in other organizations like Animal Haven and City Harvest, which celebrated its 40th anniversary as the world’s first food rescue organization. On Bernath’s birthday last week as a matter of fact, he spent the evening with the longtime organization. As the youngest member ever on the council, he said, “There’s no other way I’d rather ring in 21.” Cheers, Eitan Bernath. To all you do in the kitchen and beyond.
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