Richie Nguyen

Chef & Operations

miami, florida

About

I’m Richie Nguyen, a chef grounded in strong fundamentals, disciplined execution, and a kitchen culture built on respect, accountability, and teamwork. Over the past decade, I’ve contributed in several New York City restaurants ranked among the city’s Top 50, along with other highly respected kitchens. Those environments shaped my standards, leadership style, and approach to consistency under pressure.Each kitchen taught me something different — intensity, precision, organization, and how to maintain high standards every day regardless of the circumstances. Now based in Miami, I bring that experience into a new market and energy, focused on building strong teams, refining systems, and leading from the front while staying deeply connected to the day-to-day operations.My approach to food is straightforward: balance, consistency, and intention. I believe great food doesn’t need unnecessary complexity. It should feel honest — clean flavors, strong execution, and real respect for the ingredients, the craft, and the people behind it. When a dish works, it should feel effortless and natural.Beyond the plate, I care deeply about the culture and rhythm of a kitchen. The details matter — the prep, the communication, the pace of service, and the trust within a team. The strongest restaurants are built on consistency, accountability, and people who move with purpose together.At the end of the day, my goal is simple: create food and experiences that people genuinely connect with. Nothing forced, nothing excessive — just thoughtful food, good energy, and an atmosphere that feels welcoming, memorable, and real.

experience

· Responsible for overall kitchen execution, from menu direction and development through service consistency and final plate standards· Lead kitchen teams through training, clear expectations, and accountability, with a focus on consistency and steady execution under pressure· Oversee ordering, inventory, cost awareness, and vendor communication to support efficient and controlled operations· Work closely with ownership and FOH to keep culinary execution aligned with service and guest experience· Involved in seasonal menu development, tastings, and specials to maintain focus and consistency in the program· Monitor service flow and kitchen performance in real time, adjusting as needed to maintain stability and execution standards· Stay hands-on through service, ensuring discipline, communication, and consistency from prep through the pass

SKILL SETS

Culinary & Operational Skills· Hands-on management of kitchen operations across service-driven environments· Menu development and refinement focused on consistency, clarity, and execution· Recipe development and standardization for both high-volume and refined service· Food cost control, inventory tracking, budgeting, and day-to-day operational efficiency· Supplier and vendor management focused on reliability, quality, and consistency· Kitchen safety, sanitation, and HACCP-compliant practices maintained consistently· Plating and dish execution focused on balance, timing, and consistency· Experience supporting banquet, catering, and structured service execution· Working knowledge of POS systems and kitchen operational toolsLeadership & Professional Skills· Training and mentorship across all kitchen levels· Leading and developing kitchen teams with structure, accountability, and consistency· Clear communication between kitchen, management, and front-of-house teams· Problem-solving and decision-making during live service pressure· Strong time management and prioritization during service execution· Adaptability in fast-paced, high-pressure kitchen environments· Consistency-focused attention to detail from prep through service· Awareness of service flow, timing, and guest experience impact· Collaborative leadership built on clarity, trust, and shared standards

currently AT

- Tâm Tâm -
99 NW 1st St
Miami, Florida
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- Phở Nam -
(coming soon)
270 E Flagler St
Miami, Florida