Esther Choi

American chef and restaurateur

Esther Choi in 2018

Esther Choi is an American chef, restaurateur, and television personality known for her innovative approach to Korean cuisine. She is the owner and executive chef of several acclaimed restaurants in New York City, where she combines traditional Korean flavors with modern culinary techniques.

Early Life and Education

Esther Choi was born and raised in New Jersey, United States. Growing up in a Korean-American household, she was deeply influenced by her grandmother's cooking, which sparked her interest in Korean cuisine. Choi pursued her passion for cooking by attending the Institute of Culinary Education in New York City, where she honed her skills in various culinary disciplines.

Career

Culinary Beginnings

After completing her culinary education, Choi worked in several prestigious kitchens, gaining experience in both traditional and modern cooking techniques. Her early career included positions at renowned restaurants such as ilili and La Esquina, where she developed a deep understanding of flavor profiles and kitchen management.

Mŏkbar

In 2014, Esther Choi opened her first restaurant, Mŏkbar, located in Chelsea Market, New York City. Mŏkbar quickly gained popularity for its unique take on Korean ramen, blending authentic Korean ingredients with Japanese ramen techniques. The restaurant's success led to the opening of a second location in Brooklyn in 2017.

Other Ventures

In addition to Mŏkbar, Choi expanded her culinary empire with the opening of Ms. Yoo, a Korean gastropub in the Lower East Side of Manhattan. Ms. Yoo offers a menu that reflects Choi's creative approach to Korean-American fusion cuisine, featuring dishes that are both innovative and rooted in tradition.

Television Appearances

Esther Choi has appeared on several cooking shows, showcasing her expertise in Korean cuisine. She has been a contestant on "Iron Chef America" and has made guest appearances on shows like "Beat Bobby Flay" and "Chopped". Her television presence has helped to popularize Korean flavors and cooking techniques to a broader audience.

Philosophy and Influence

Choi's culinary philosophy centers around the idea of "cooking with heart," emphasizing the importance of passion and authenticity in her dishes. She is committed to preserving the integrity of Korean flavors while introducing them to new audiences through innovative presentations and techniques.

Related Pages

• Korean cuisine
• Ramen
• Chelsea Market
• Lower East Side