Roy Choi Biography: Age, Net Worth, Awards, Movement, Parents, Spouse, Children, Restaurant, Cooking Style

Roy Choi is a Korean-American chef who is celebrated for “food that isn’t fancy” and is known as one of the founders of the gourmet food truck movement.

He gained prominence as the creator of the gourmet Korean-Mexican taco truck Kogi, which revolutionized the food industry with its fusion cuisine and affordable prices.

Choi’s innovative approach to food and his ability to blend different cultures and flavors have made him a pioneer in the culinary world.

Profile

• Full Name: Roy Choi
• Stage Name: Roy Choi
• Born: 24, February 1970
• Age: 54 years old
• Birthplace: Seoul, South Korea
• Nationality: South Korean and American
• Occupation: Chef
• Height: unknown
• Parent: Soo Myung Choi and Jai Nam Choi
• Siblings: unknown
• Spouse: Michelle Rae
• Children: Kaelyn Choi
• Relationship: Married
• Net Worth: $2 million

Early Life And Education

Roy Choi was born on February 24, 1970, in Seoul, South Korea, to parents Soo Myung Choi and Jai Nam Choi. While details about his siblings remain undisclosed, his upbringing was shaped by his family’s Korean heritage.

Choi earned a degree in philosophy from California State University, Fullerton, and briefly pursued law school before discovering his passion for cooking. He went on to study culinary arts at the Culinary Institute of America, setting the stage for his innovative culinary career.

His background reflects a blend of South Korean and North Korean roots, contributing to his Korean-American identity and specific details about Choi’s religious beliefs are not publicly known.

Career

Roy Choi is a trailblazer in the culinary world, best known for founding Kogi BBQ, a Korean-Mexican food truck that transformed the street food scene in Los Angeles. Established in 2008, Kogi introduced an inventive fusion of Korean flavors and Mexican street food, particularly through its iconic tacos.

Choi utilized social media to create buzz, attracting a devoted fan base and setting a new standard for gourmet food trucks. This groundbreaking concept not only elevated street food but also underscored its cultural and social significance in urban communities.

Choi’s path to culinary fame began after earning a philosophy degree and graduating from the Culinary Institute of America. He refined his craft in esteemed kitchens, including the Beverly Hilton, before venturing into the food truck business.

Kogi’s success catapulted him into the spotlight, earning him recognition as one of Food & Wine magazine’s Best New Chefs in 2010 and two mentions on TIME’s list of the 100 Most Influential People in the World.

Choi expanded his impact with ventures like Chego!, which celebrates rice bowl cuisine, and Best Friend, a Las Vegas restaurant blending his signature flavors. He also co-founded LocoL, a fast-food chain designed to bring healthier dining options to underserved neighborhoods, reinforcing his commitment to community betterment.

Beyond the kitchen, Choi has made a lasting mark in food media. He co-hosts The Chef Show on Netflix alongside Jon Favreau, offering insights into food culture and storytelling.

He also produced Broken Bread, a documentary series addressing food-related social justice issues, for which he earned an Emmy Award. With his innovative culinary vision and dedication to social advocacy, Choi continues to redefine the role of chefs as both creators and agents of change.

Social Media

• Instagram handle: @chefroychoi
• Twitter handle: @ChefRoyChoi

Personal Life

Roy Choi is married to Michelle Rae, and together they share a daughter named Kaelyn Choi. The couple celebrated their union on April 23, 2011, marking the beginning of a partnership that blends both personal and professional support.

Choi frequently acknowledges the vital role his family plays in grounding him amid the fast-paced world of the culinary arts. Despite his demanding career, Choi prioritizes spending quality time with his family, sharing glimpses of their life together in interviews and on social media.

Net Worth

Roy Choi’s net worth is estimated to be around $2 million. He is widely celebrated for his groundbreaking contributions to the culinary industry, most notably through the creation of the Kogi BBQ food truck.