Chef/Partner at Yangban Society

TRAVEL!!! Unfortunately we haven’t been able to travel as much as we would like to due to the pandemic, but traditionally we like to travel to one new place every year. We love learning about different foods and immersing ourselves in another culture. A few of our favorite places are Bangkok, Seoul, New Orleans, Charleston, Rome… We always return inspired and rejuvenated. It’s so important to get out of your comfort zone/routine and have new experiences.

My internship at Melisse in Santa Monica changed my career. I graduated from a culinary student to a real working cook during my time there. I learned the skills needed to work in a professional kitchen. I matured there and they taught me a lot about respect for ingredients, finesses and pursuing excellence.

A past mentor told me to not skip steps in my career. You have to be willing to take the time to work on your craft and become a master at whatever you are doing, before looking forward to move on. When you are overzealous and force progression, you will most likely end up back where you started. Take your time and be patient.

Be humble and forever a student. There is a takeaway from every experience. With everyone that you meet, there is an opportunity to learn from their experiences.