Nyesha Arrington Biography
Nyesha Arrington is a celebrated chef, restaurateur, TV personality, and mentor reshaping how food is created, critiqued, and celebrated across the U.S. With deep roots in Southern California and a multicultural heritage that inspires her cooking, Arrington continues to make waves both on and off screen. Arrington was a contestant on the 9th season of Top Chef: Texas. She has continuously appeared on Fox’s Next Level Chef as a mentor and judge.
Raised in Southern California, Arrington is Known for her innovative fusion of cultures and techniques. She trained at prestigious culinary institutions and kitchens, including The Art Institute of California, Michelin-recognized restaurants, and legendary French kitchens.
Culinary Training And Early Career
Arrington studied culinary arts at The Art Institute of California. She graduated in 2001. She trained under top chefs, including Josiah Citrin at Mélisse and French chef Joël Robuchon’s kitchens in Las Vegas. Nyesha managed to earn accolades early in her career, including designation as a “Rising Star” and later inclusion in Zagat’s “30 Under 30.” Arrington has worked in various restaurants, including Wilshire Restaurant as an Executive Chef, Leona (Venice Beach), and Native (Santa Monica) – A farm-forward restaurant where she worked as a Chef and partner. However, the restaurant closed in 2019 due to economic pressures.
Television Shows And Media Stardom
Arrington’s national profile grew through numerous television appearances:
Top Chef (Season 9) — Contestant and fan favorite.
Knife Fight — Winner of the cooking competition series.
Tournament of Champions — Competitor.
Next Level Chef (FOX) — Mentor and judge alongside Gordon Ramsay and Richard Blais, returning in multiple seasons.
MasterChef, Guy’s Grocery Games, and Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives.
Personal Life
Arrington was born on October 18, 1981, in Southern California, United States. She is 44 years old as of 2025. She currently resides in Los Angeles.
Nyesha Arrington Ethnicity
Arrington is of mixed Black and Korean descent. Her maternal grandmother was a Korean cook. She was her earliest culinary influence, shaping the way she blends Korean, French, and global flavors into her signature California-forward style.
Nyesha Arrington Husband
Arring has remained discreet about her love life. There is no available information about her husband. She has chosen to focus more on her culinary career. She has two beautiful pets, a French bulldog named Bleu-Ginger and a tuxedo cat Mr. Robert Marley. Outside professional kitchens, Arrington enjoys wellness and fitness, travel, art, and outdoor activities like snowboarding and beach days.
Next Level Chef
Arrington remains a key mentor on FOX’s Next Level Chef. She continues to earn praise from fans for her calm, insightful coaching and strategic guidance of contestants, contributing to the show’s growing popularity. The show premiered on January 2, 2022. She appears alongside judges Gordon Ramsay and Richard Blais. The 5th season of the show is set to premiere on January 29, 2026.
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