Nini Nguyen

Đặc Biệt - New Orleans, LA

Based in New Orleans, Nini Nguyen is a chef and cookbook author whose cooking reflects both her Vietnamese heritage and the bold, soulful flavors of Louisiana. Her work is rooted in tradition, but shaped by curiosity, travel, and the joy of sharing food with others.

She trained in some of the country’s most respected kitchens, including Eleven Madison Park in New York, before gaining national recognition on Top Chef. Today, she is a familiar presence on Food Network, appearing on Tournament of Champions, Bobby’s Triple Threat, Guy’s Grocery Games, Wildcard Kitchen, and 24 in 24: Last Chef Standing. She also won the premiere season of Last Bite Hotel.

Her debut cookbook, Đặc Biệt: An Extra Special Vietnamese Cookbook, was released in 2024 and named one of Amazon’s Best Cookbooks of the year. Called “an invaluable guide to the fundamentals of Vietnamese cooking,” the book is a heartfelt celebration of her roots and the food that shaped her.

She contributes recipes and stories to Food & Wine, Food52, and Serious Eats, and shares tips, tutorials, and behind-the-scenes kitchen life on Instagram and TikTok @chefnininguyen. Learn more at www.chefnininguyen.com.