Based in New Orleans, Nini Nguyen is a chef, instructor, and recipe developer. After starting her career in some of the country’s most innovative kitchens, such as Eleven Madison Park in New York, she ventured into the culinary spotlight by participating in Top Chef Season 16 and later in Top Chef: All-Stars Los Angeles, earning a dedicated fan following. Passionate about teaching, Chef Nini Nguyen wrote Đặc Biệt: An Extra Special Vietnamese Cookbook, blending her Vietnamese heritage with Louisiana influence, which was released on August 27, 2024. Nini strives to make the rich flavors of her upbringing accessible to all.
Chef Nini made her Food Network debut in Tournament of Champions Season 5 and recently won the series premiere of Last Bite Hotel. She is scheduled for several upcoming appearances on the network. Chef Nini also contributes to Food & Wine, Food52, and Serious Eats and shares kitchen tips on Instagram and TikTok: @chefnininguyen.
