Who is Esther Choi?

Esther Choi is a renowned American chef and restaurateur celebrated for her Korean-inspired dishes. Born on November 20, 1985, in New Jersey, she learned traditional Korean cooking from her grandmother during her upbringing. Choi owns mŏkbar, with locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn, and is also a partner at Ms. Yoo in Manhattan. She has gained fame through her appearances on Food Network programs such as “Chopped” and “Iron Chef: Quest for an Iron Legend.” Her culinary style, deeply rooted in her Korean heritage, is praised for its innovative take on classic dishes.

Esther Choi age and birthday

Choi was born on November 20, 1985, in New Jersey, USA, making her a Scorpio.

Esther Choi height and weight

Esther Choi educational background

Choi Esther went to Egg Harbor Township High School, where she had a keen interest in home economics classes. She then graduated from the Institute of Culinary Education in New York. Her passion for cooking started at 14, inspired by her grandmother’s Korean recipes.

Esther Choi spouse and children

Choi is married to Josh Loeb, a fellow chef and restaurateur. They first met while working at Momofuku Ssam Bar in New York City and tied the knot in 2018. The couple has two children, and Esther has recently shared her joy about expecting another child.

Esther Choi parents and siblings

Choi, born to Korean parents Bok N Choi and Mi Choi, has two siblings: her sister Jennifer, who is also her business partner and serves as the Managing Partner and Controller for Mokbar, and her brother Dan. The family spent three years in South Korea during Esther’s childhood to help the children connect with their Korean heritage.

Esther Choi career and cooking

Esther Choi’s culinary career is marked by her unique blend of traditional Korean flavors and contemporary techniques, which has earned her notable recognition in the culinary world. Her passion for cooking was deeply influenced by her Korean grandmother, who taught her how to prepare traditional dishes such as kimchi.

Starting her career at a young age, Choi began working in restaurants at 14 and later graduated from the Institute of Culinary Education in New York. Her early career included roles in prestigious kitchens like ilili and La Esquina in New York City, where she honed her skills and developed her culinary style.

Choi has gained further acclaim through her appearances on several Food Network shows, including “Bobby’s Triple Threat,” “Throwdown with Michael Symon,” “Chopped,” “Battle of the Brothers,” and “Iron Chef: Quest for an Iron Legend.” She also hosted the Hot Ones spinoff “Heat Eaters” and co-hosts the Food Network series “Last Chef Standing.” Her restaurant ventures include mŏkbar, which she opened in 2014 with dumplings made from her grandmother’s recipe, and Ms. Yoo in Manhattan. Choi’s cooking philosophy centers on cooking with love and focusing on the person you’re preparing food for, a principle she learned from her grandmother.

Esther Choi net worth and salary

As of 2024, Esther Choi’s net worth is approximately $5 million, accumulated through her roles as a chef, restaurateur, and media personality. Her income sources include earnings from her restaurants, mŏkbar and Ms. Yoo, as well as her appearances on television shows such as “Iron Chef” and “Chopped.” Additionally, Choi benefits from endorsements and sponsorships, including brand ambassador roles and TV commercials. Her financial success reflects her culinary skills and prominence in the media.

Esther Choi social media handles: TikTok, Facebook & Instagram