Biography
Nyesha is known for her former restaurant Native in Santa Monica, which sourced from the nearby farmers market, and for competing on “Top Chef” season 9. She studied culinary arts at the Art Institute, trained at Michelin-starred Melisse, and progressed through Joel Robuchon restaurants in Las Vegas, Spice Mill in the British Virgin Islands, Wilshire in Santa Monica and Leona in L.A. Angeleno named her a Rising Star in 2010.
Nyesha consults with brands like Unilever and the American Egg Board (AEB), works as a freelance personal chef and caterer, and hosts the “Plateworthy” video series on Eater. She’s inspired by art and her African American-Korean background and passionate about food and culture, nutrition and vegetables, storytelling, travel and fitness.
Work History
- President, Arrington LLC, 2018 to present
- Executive Chef and Partner, Native, 2017-2019
- Chef-Partner, Leona, 2014-2017
- Executive Chef, Wilshire Restaurant, 2011-2013
- Executive Chef, Spice Mill Restaurant, 2010-2011
- Chef de Cuisine, Cache Restaurant, 2009-2010
- Chef de Partie, The Mansion Robuchon, 2007-2009
- Sous Chef, Melisse Restaurant, 2004-2006
- Sous Chef, Lemon Moon, 2002-2004