About

About Chef Jay Huang

Chef. Educator. Hospitality Leader.

With over 20 years of experience, Chef Jay Huang blends global culinary traditions with a deep commitment to sustainability, community, and innovation. From sushi and Nikkei to Yucatecan Mexican and Taiwanese cuisine, Jay crafts unforgettable dining experiences and shares his expertise through coaching and educational content.

A Culinary Journey Rooted in Purpose

Chef Jay’s passion for cooking began early, inspired by his Asian heritage and travels across Latin America and Japan. Over two decades, he has honed his craft in some of the most vibrant food scenes, eventually becoming the chef and owner of Nomade Cocina and the visionary behind Lucky Robot, Austin’s acclaimed sustainable sushi restaurant.

His culinary style is a fusion of tradition and innovation, highlighting seasonal ingredients sourced ethically from local fishers, farmers, and artisans. For Jay, every dish tells a story—not just of flavor, but of respect for the people and ecosystems that nurture our food.

“Every dish should tell the story of where it comes from — and who it supports.”

Cooking for People and the Planet

Sustainability is at the heart of Jay’s approach. As a James Beard Smart Catch Leader, he champions responsible seafood sourcing and regenerative agriculture practices. Jay partners with communities dedicated to protecting marine ecosystems and promoting equitable labor in the food system.

His mission is to create dining experiences that nourish both guests and the environment, inspiring others to rethink how they cook, source, and eat with intention and care.

Leading With Intention: Coaching & Hospitality

Beyond the kitchen, Jay is a dedicated hospitality coach, specializing in leadership development and team building for chefs and restaurant professionals. He helps culinary teams build ethical, efficient, and supportive environments that foster creativity and growth.

Whether coaching one-on-one or leading workshops, Jay’s approach is personalized, empathetic, and results-driven.

Book a Coaching Session

Teaching Through Food: Video Tutorials & Education

Jay shares his culinary knowledge through a growing library of free and premium video tutorials. From mastering sushi techniques and butchery to exploring dry-aging seafood and Nikkei-Latin fusion cooking, his engaging how-to videos make professional skills accessible to home cooks and professionals alike.

Explore Video Library

Recognition & Collaborations

  • James Beard Foundation Smart Catch Leader

  • Featured in local and national media

  • Collaborations with farms, fisheries, and fellow chefs

Online Coaching with Chef Jay Huang

Chef Jay Huang’s online coaching offers personalized 1-on-1 sessions designed to elevate culinary and hospitality professionals. With over two decades of hands-on experience, Chef Jay helps you refine your craft, grow your business, and lead your team more effectively.

What You’ll Gain:

  • Hands-on culinary training (sushi, Nikkei, butchery, and more)

  • Guidance on hospitality business growth and branding

  • Leadership and team-building strategies for better kitchen culture

  • Tailored support based on your specific goals and challenges

Whether you’re a chef looking to master technique or a restaurant owner navigating growth, these sessions are built to help you lead, cook, and operate with purpose.

Book Your Coaching Session

Stay Connected

Follow Chef Jay and his restaurants for behind-the-scenes content, video tutorials, and culinary inspiration:

Instagram