Arnold Myint

From the moment we met Arnold aka Suzy Wong, we totally fell in love. The entire Finery family loved everything about him and put their heart and soul in designing an anti-chef shirt for him that not only functioned well in the kitchen, but also in front of the camera. 

But even more special was that he sent us his mother’s Thai silks to incorporate into his shirts as a way to pay homage to her legacy. 

About Chef Arnold Myint

Arnold Myint is a James Beard Award nominated chef and  grew up in his family's restaurant, International Market, in Nashville TN which opened in 1975. With a career change from professional figure skater and drag queen (aka Suzy Wong) to chef, Arnold has been seen on multiple cooking competition shows including Top Chef and Food Network Star.  He is a former culinary instructor, operates the family restaurant with his sister, and is a Culinary Advisor to the Royal Thai Ministry of Commerce where he advocates and promotes Thai food and culture. Chef Arnold is a contributor on many media platforms with features for Epicurious, Saveur, and Eater as well as a content creator for Tastemade and Buzzfeed.  Additionally, Chef Arnold works with many non-profits that focus on food insecurities within his community. Some of them being Nashville Launchpad, which offers street free shelter for LGBTQ+ Youth, The Store, a dignified grocery store shopping experience, and Nashville Food Project. 

5 Minutes with Chef Arnold Myint

What was the inspiration behind this piece? What did you need in this? What were you not finding in traditional chef wear?

I wanted a casual chef "shirt" that wasn't typical; a bit of flare and story behind it. In this case, incorporating my mother's Thai silks as an homage to her legacy. 

Worst uniform you’ve ever had to wear?

I hate when I work events, being tossed a cheap one-time use quick printed event apron with a company logo or brand on it and being asked if I mind wearing it for a demo or photo...yes I mind. 

What do you usually wear when you’re not in the kitchen?

LOL...if you know me, you know my closet is 90% Gucci, the other 10% is Target black t-shirts.

1 piece of clothing you can’t live without?

My Thai gold rings and a good watch...is that clothing? Bling Bling Baby! 

1 inspiring thing you saw this week?

My friends opened a new restaurant and I couldn't be more proud. They have an incredibly commendable business model; one that is aspirational. Literally the best. I can't wait to celebrate their successes. (kasexnoko.com) 

Favorite eating city(ies) in the world? 

THAILAND....periodttttttt. I also enjoy LA and NYC.