Chef and television personality Judy Joo has made quite the name for herself in both industries for several years. She shined as one of the four primary judges on Iron Chef UK overseas while appearing on the domestic version as well as hosting her own show on The Cooking Channel called Korean Food Made Simple. But wait... there's so much more.
Judy is also an immense talent in the kitchen as her restaurant Jinjuu in London is a huge hit across the pond.
She stopped by Manhattan shortly after the new year, where Judy sat down with us to discuss why she came to The Big Apple, favorite things to eat while she's here, her most favorite career moment and so much more.
What brings you to Manhattan during this wintry season?
I travel to Manhattan often as my family is here. We spent Christmas in New York and went for Chinese food. Peking duck! It was so fun and delicious.
Do you have a favorite restaurant that you like to dine at while here?
I love Sushi of Gari and find myself there often. I also love ABC-V, Jean George does the best Dosa in town. I also had a fantastic meal at Nobu Downtown in the financial district— beautiful food to match a stunning room.
What is your favorite dish at your restaurant, Jinjuu, in London?
I love our Philly Cheesesteak dumplings.
What do you think will be the biggest food trend in 2019 and why?
Casual dining is taking over with comfort food really coming back in vogue. People are rather upset with politics these days, so there is a trend towards nostalgia.
I have a lot of respect for women in the culinary game as my mother was a chef for several years. Do you find that things have gotten better for women in the industry over the past couple of years?
It is getting better and the #MeToo movement has helped tremendously. I just hope that more women enter and stay in the field. Being physically more present is the only way that we will see impactful change in the industry.
What would you say has been your proudest moment in the world of food?
This was in the world of food but giving the commencement speech for the class of 2018 at Columbia University was a career highlight. It was such an honor.
Anything you have coming up that our readers should know about?
Stay tuned!
For more information on Judy Joo, please check out her official website.
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