Clive Berkman, author of Creating Empty Bottle Moments: Cooking with Clive is known as the chef, manager, and owner of one of the finest restaurants in Houston. Under his guidance, the restaurant achieved many accolades, including The DiRoNa Award and Travel and Holiday magazine's Dining Award. It was one of only three restaurants in Texas to win Wine Spectator magazine's Grand Award.

A native of Johannesburg, South Africa, Berkman began his culinary career in the South African Army as a kosher chef. Upon leaving the army, he attended chef training at Cassio College in London and traveled to the vineyards of Germany and France to learn the art of winemaking. After completing his education, Berkman relocated to New York and later moved to Miami, where he met his mentor, Victor Broceaux, director of research and development for Restaurant Associates. They worked together to open Reflections on the Bay in the Miami Marina.

While in Miami, Berkman worked as service director for Banker's Club of Miami and later as part of a regional team for Club Corporation of America, operating several clubs in the Miami area. In 1982, he moved to Houston and began his illustrious career at Charley's 517. Berkman helped create Charley's wine cellar and hosted themed vinter dinners with proceeds donated to various charities. He also helped carry the restaurant through the oil market crash of the mid-80's with creative pricing strategies.

In 1997, after a fire destroyed the restaurant, Berkman reopened it as Clive's. He also owned and operated Crème de la Crème Catering and a special events company, True Concessions.

Berkman is known for his humor, warmth, creativity, and love for people. He currently provides private cooking classes and group demonstrations, creating empty bottle moments whenever possible. Berkman lives in Houston.