Episode 130. Chef Edward Lee – Internationally Renowned Chef & Founder of 610 Magnolia & Milkwood Restaurants

Chef Edward Lee wakes every morning with a passion for his work and learning and discovering new things.

Chef Lee is a Korean-American chef from Brooklyn, trained in the kitchens of New York. He is the owner of 610 Magnolia and Milkwood restaurants.

In 2001, a Kentucky Derby road trip brought him to discover 610 Magnolia, where he fell in love with his surroundings. Lee relocated to Louisville and the growing new southern food scene within a year.

Chef Lee’s culinary style draws from his Asian heritage, New York training, and embracing the American south, combined with the best ingredients from local farms. He has been featured in many publications, was the winner on Food Network’s “Iron Chef America,” and was a season favorite on the Cooking Channel’s “Top Chef.”

He has twice been named a finalist for the James Beard Foundation award, Best Chef Southeast. Chef Lee has been on major news shows and has published several articles in various journals. His cookbook, “Smoke and Pickles,” shares his life recipes and stories.

In addition to 610 Magnolia, Chef Lee operates The Wine Studio, a particular event dining room, and Milkwood, a downtown restaurant serving southern bar food with an Asian pantry. He also collaborates on new product developments, including a luxury bourbon.