Gold Chef Prize
Powered by OpenTable and Gold House, the Gold Chef Prize will uplift the next generation of leading Asian Pacific chefs.
In partnership with

Overview
The Gold Chef Prize will spotlight nine rising Asian Pacific chefs, and award one the opportunity to be the Executive Chef of the 2024 A100 Honoree Dinner. The winner, along with two finalists, will each receive a $10,000 cash prize, mentorship by leading Asian Pacific chefs, and amplification on Gold House and OpenTable’s marketing channels.
The Gold Chefs will be selected for displaying exceptional talent, character, and ability to make a significant impact to the culinary industry for years to come, while being passionately committed to furthering Asian Pacific representation and leadership in the broader community.
Prizes
9 semi-finalists will be selected to receive:
(1) spotlights/inclusion on Gold House and OpenTable’s social platforms (IG, LI, FB, X)
(2) an invitation to the Gold House Futures Network for rising creative and business leaders, with exclusive invitations to Asian Pacific media and community events, promotional opportunities, and access to growth and collaboration resources
(3) an OpenTable offer for 6 months of special pricing
All 3 finalists will additionally receive:
(1) a $10K cash prize
(2) 1:1 mentorship sessions with a top Asian Pacific chef
(3) a feature in Gold House’s Renegades newsletter
The winner will receive the (compensated) opportunity to be the Executive Chef of the 2024 A100 Honorees Dinner, which will take place in LA and will feature the cuisine of the winner’s choice.
Selection Process
The Gold Chef will be chosen through a three-step selection process that kicks off with an open call for head chefs from New York City, San Francisco Bay Area and Greater Los Angeles and entails:
Phase 1: Complete a brief online written application.
Phase 2: Three semi-finalists from each city will be evaluated by select members of the Selection Committee, who will dine at each semifinalist’s restaurant, with 1 winner per city advancing to the final round. OpenTable and Gold House will cover the costs associated with the meal.
Phase 3: Each finalist will submit a brief video and also be interviewed by Gold House and OpenTable.
2023
- 2023
Selection Committee
Brandon Jew
Executive Chef & Owner, Mister Jiu’s
Carlo Lamagna
Chef-Owner, Magna Kusina
Chintan Pandya
Chef & Owner, Dhamaka & Adda Indian Canteen
Esther Choi
Chef & Owner, Mŏkbar; Chef & Partner, Ms. Yoo
Jet Tila
Host & Judge, Food Network; VP of Culinary of Pei Wei Group; Managing Partner, Dragon Tiger Noodle Co
Junghyun Park
Chef & Owner, Atomix (2 Michelin Stars, No. 8 World 50 Best 2023), Atoboy, NARO, Seoul Salon
Martin Yan
Chef & Host, Yan Can Cook
Mei Lin
Top Chef Season 12; Chef & Owner, Daybird
Shota Nakajima
Chef & Owner, Taku and Kobo Pizza; Television Judge
Stephanie Wu
Editor-in-Chief, Eater
Eligibility & Criteria
Eligibility:
- Chef must identify as Asian, Native Hawaiian, or Pacific Islander.
- Chef must be the owner/executive chef of their restaurant. The restaurant does not have to feature Asian, Native Hawaiian, or Pacific Islander cuisine.
- Restaurant must have a location in Greater Los Angeles, San Francisco Bay Area, or New York City.
- Restaurant must have been in operation for a minimum of 2 years and a maximum of 8 years as of January 1, 2024.
Applicants for the award will be considered based on the following criteria:
- Exceptional talent: Applicants should have a demonstrable track record of excellence in culinary pursuits. This can include, but is not limited to, awards, nominations or inclusion on shortlists for local or national awards. Their execution of menu, concept, and overall dining experience will be evaluated by judges who will dine at their restaurants.
- Innovative Approach: We seek chefs who display innovative thinking and creativity in their approach to their chosen cuisine and/or restaurant.
- Positive Impact: Successful candidates should demonstrate positive contributions to the industry and community, as well as their ability to make an impact in the culinary field for years to come. Their work should contribute to promoting inclusion and representation of Asian Pacific chefs across the industry.
Apply Now
Applications open now through 11:59PM PT December 15th, 2023.