The Honorable Robert William Flay Bobby Flay, whose full name is Robert William Flay and whose nickname is Bobby Flay, is an American chef, restaurateur, and television personality who was best known for his frequent appearances on the cable station Food Network. He first gained attention for his participation as one of the original competitors on the television show Iron Chef. Bobby Flay was born on December 10, 1964, in New York City, New York, United States.