Based in New Orleans, Nini Nguyen is a chef and cookbook author known for blending her Vietnamese heritage with Louisiana-inspired flavors. She began her culinary journey in some of the country’s most acclaimed kitchens, including Eleven Madison Park in New York, before stepping into the spotlight on Top Chef Season 16 and Top Chef: All-Stars Los Angeles, gaining a dedicated fan following along the way.

Her debut cookbook, Đặc Biệt: An Extra Special Vietnamese Cookbook, was released on August 27, 2024, and named one of Amazon’s Best Cookbooks of the year. The book is a heartfelt celebration of her roots and the food that shaped her - filled with recipes that are both deeply personal and widely approachable.

Nini made her Food Network debut on Tournament of Champions Season 5 and is currently competing on Season 6. She also won the premiere season of Last Bite Hotel and has appeared on Guy’s Grocery Games. Up next, she’ll be featured in the new season of 24 in 24: Last Chef Standing, premiering April 27, 2025, with even more Food Network appearances on the horizon.

Outside the kitchen, Nini shares recipes, kitchen tips, and cooking tutorials on Instagram and TikTok at @chefnininguyen, and contributes to Food & Wine, Food52, and Serious Eats. 

Learn more at www.chefnininguyen.com.