Niki Nakayama
Niki Nakayama | |
|---|---|
| Born | 1975 Koreatown, Los Angeles, United States |
| Occupation(s) | Chef, restaurateur |
| Known for | Michelin-starred restaurant n/naka |
| Notable work | Owner and chef of n/naka; featured on Netflix's Chef's Table |
Niki Nakayama (born 1975) is a distinguished American chef and proprietor of the Michelin-starred n/naka in Los Angeles, renowned for its contemporary take on Japanese kaiseki dining.
Early life
Nakayama was born in Koreatown, Los Angeles, to Japanese immigrant parents who were engaged in the fish distribution industry—a business currently managed by her elder brother. After completing her culinary education in Pasadena, she gained experience at Mori Sushi before dedicating three years in Japan to refine her mastery of Japanese culinary traditions. During that period, she trained at Shirakawa-Ya Ryokan, a prestigious kaiseki inn owned by her cousins, under the guidance of Chef Masa Sato. Inspired by this formative time, Nakayama launched Azami Sushi Cafe with family backing, notable for its exclusively female staff. Subsequently, she established n/naka in Los Angeles alongside sous chef Carole Iida.
Restaurant & cooking style
At n/naka, Nakayama presents an elaborate multi-course Japanese dining experience that highlights seasonal ingredients and a variety of preparation techniques emblematic of traditional kaiseki cuisine. The establishment is celebrated for its 13-course menus that seamlessly blend flavors, incorporating fresh produce from Nakayama’s personal garden as well as select seasonal items. Her "modern kaiseki" style skillfully merges classical elements with contemporary innovation, prioritizing ingredient authenticity and an immersive guest experience.
In 2019, n/naka was awarded two Michelin stars and recognized as one of Food & Wine's top 30 global restaurants. To avoid any preconceived notions related to gender bias, Nakayama maintains a closed kitchen environment where diners focus solely on the food rather than the chef’s identity.
In 2024, n/naka's Michelin rating was adjusted to one star, marking a reduction from the previous year.
Television
Nakayama appeared in the fourth episode of Netflix’s 2015 series Chef's Table, which explored her professional journey and culinary ethos. She also contributed as a culinary consultant for the 2019 Netflix movie Always Be My Maybe.
Personal life
During her three-year tenure in Japan, Nakayama honed her skills at Shirakawa-Ya Ryokan under Chef Masa Sato, immersing herself in the art of kaiseki. Upon returning to the United States, she founded Azami Sushi Cafe, acclaimed for its omakase offerings. This venture operated as a casual sushi spot by day and transformed into an intimate eight-course chef’s table experience by night.
Since her return from Japan, Nakayama has been honored with two Michelin stars. In 2014, she received the StarChefs Rising Star Chef Award for her outstanding work at n/naka.
Nakayama is married to Carole Iida, who is also her business partner at n/naka.
Following the loss of one Michelin star in 2024, Nakayama expressed resilience and dedication:
"While we are naturally disappointed by this year’s Michelin decision, it has provided us an opportunity to reflect on what truly matters. It is the journey—the triumphs and setbacks—that define us. This development only strengthens our resolve to uphold the standards of excellence we cherish. We remain steadfast in our mission to inspire and uplift through our craft. Bring it on."
External links
- Niki Nakayama on n-naka.com