Meet Chef Nikky Phinyawatana

VISIT DALLAS: Can you tell us about the moment you decided to pursue a career in cooking?

CHEF NIKKY: I first started cooking in college when I missed the flavors of home. There weren’t many authentic Thai options around, so I taught myself to recreate the dishes I grew up with in Bangkok. But it wasn’t until I took culinary classes that I truly understood the foundation of blending the flavors of my two homes—Bangkok and Texas. That’s when I knew I wanted to take my passion for food to the next level.

VISIT DALLAS: What inspired you to create the Asian Mint restaurants?

CHEF NIKKY: I saw a need for fresh, high-quality Thai fusion flavors in Dallas. I wanted to bring the same vibrant, bold, and balanced flavors I grew up with in Thailand but with a modern and approachable twist. My goal was to create a space where guests could experience not just great food, but also the warmth and hospitality that Thai culture is known for.

VISIT DALLAS: Can you share some of the biggest challenges you faced starting out in your career?

CHEF NIKKY: Getting a loan was one of the toughest hurdles! No bank wanted to take a chance on someone without an existing business, a house, or a traditional job. On top of that, securing a landlord who believed in our vision was just as difficult. I was lucky to have a great mentor who helped guide me through the process, and with persistence and passion, I was finally able to make my dream a reality.

VISIT DALLAS: What would you say was your breakthrough moment or turning point in your career?

CHEF NIKKY: When Asian Mint made the Top Ten Best New Restaurants list, that was a game-changer. It put us on the map and gave us the momentum to grow. From that moment on, I knew we had to work even harder to not just stay on the map—but to keep evolving and thriving.

VISIT DALLAS: Who were your biggest supporters or mentors along the way?

CHEF NIKKY: I’ve been blessed with incredible supporters and mentors. Sharon Van Meter, an inspiring female chef, paved the way for women in this industry and has been a guiding force. And of course, my parents—my biggest cheerleaders—who always reminded me to dream big and never give up.

VISIT DALLAS: How did your experiences in Texas and Thailand shape your approach to cooking and your business model?

CHEF NIKKY: Growing up in Bangkok, I was surrounded by bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and a deep-rooted culture of hospitality. Moving to Texas exposed me to a whole new culinary world—big flavors, diverse influences, and a strong sense of community. My approach to cooking is a fusion of both worlds: honoring traditional Thai techniques while incorporating fresh, local ingredients and a modern, Texas-inspired twist. The same philosophy applies to my business—creating a welcoming, vibrant space where people can experience great food and feel like family.

VISIT DALLAS: What’s the story behind your award-winning cookbook, “Thai Food and Travel with Chef Nikky,” and what do you aim for readers to gain from it?

CHEF NIKKY: This cookbook is a love letter to Thai food and culture, dedicated to my children. I wanted to bring the flavors and traditions of Thailand into people’s homes in a way that’s approachable and meaningful. It’s more than just recipes—it’s a journey through my experiences, from Bangkok to Texas, and the stories behind the dishes I love. My hope is that readers feel inspired to explore Thai cuisine, try new flavors, and create their own special moments around the table.

VISIT DALLAS: Could you describe a typical day and what excites you about it?

CHEF NIKKY: Every day is different, but what excites me most is getting to inspire people through food, culture, and experiences–and feeding their souls. Whether I’m in the kitchen, developing new recipes, connecting with my team, or engaging with our community through social media and events, I love sharing the beauty of Thai cuisine. Seeing people light up when they try a new dish or experience Thai culture for the first time—that’s what keeps me going.

VISIT DALLAS: How do you bring the Dallas brand’s “maverick, can-do spirit” into your daily work?

CHEF NIKKY: Dallas is all about innovation, resilience, and pushing boundaries, and that’s exactly how I approach my work. When I started Asian Mint, I wanted to redefine how people experienced Thai food—fresh, flavorful, and approachable. I took risks, embraced change, and never let challenges stop me. That same spirit drives everything I do, whether it’s launching my cookbook, growing my brand through sauces or culinary retreats, or finding new ways to share Thai culture with the world.

VISIT DALLAS: Are there any upcoming trends in your field that you're particularly excited about?

CHEF NIKKY: I love seeing how people are becoming more adventurous with global flavors and cooking at home. There’s also a huge movement toward food as an experience—immersive dining, culinary travel, and deeper storytelling behind dishes. That’s exactly what I strive for with my restaurant, culinary tours, youtube channel, and cookbook—helping people connect with food in a more meaningful way.

VISIT DALLAS: You’ve been celebrated for making Thai cuisine approachable. What are some misconceptions about Thai food that you aim to dispel through your work?

CHEF NIKKY: One of the biggest misconceptions about Thai food is that it’s intimidating to cook at home. While Thai cuisine has complex flavors, it doesn’t have to be complicated. Through my cookbook, cooking classes, and easy-to-follow recipes–10 ingredients or less & in 5 steps or less, I love showing people that with the right ingredients and techniques, anyone can recreate authentic, delicious Thai dishes in their own kitchen. My goal is to make Thai cooking approachable, fun, and accessible for everyone, no matter their skill level!

VISIT DALLAS: Asian Mint celebrated 20 years in business. What do you consider the key milestone that contributed to this longevity and success?

CHEF NIKKY: The biggest key to our success is staying true to our mission—serving fresh, flavorful food with warm hospitality. Making Top Ten Best New Restaurants early on put us on the map, but what has kept us here is consistency, innovation, and always listening to our customers, our Mintfanatics. Our team is also a huge part of this journey—many of them have been with us for years, and their passion and dedication make all the difference. We are more than a team, we are family.

VISIT DALLAS: Supporting over 100 charities is a remarkable achievement. How does giving back to the community influence your professional and personal life?

CHEF NIKKY: Giving back is at the heart of everything I do. We feed souls through food, and food has the power to bring people together, and I believe success is not just about business—it’s about making a positive impact. Whether it’s supporting education, feeding those in need, or mentoring future chefs, I want to use my platform to uplift others. It’s incredibly fulfilling and reminds me why I started this journey in the first place.

VISIT DALLAS: What are some of the common misconceptions about women in the culinary industry?

CHEF NIKKY: One of the biggest misconceptions is that women can’t handle the physical and mental demands of the kitchen at the same level as men. The truth is, women have been running kitchens—both at home and professionally—for generations. Another myth is that women are only suited for pastry or front-of-house roles. In reality, women belong in every part of the industry, from executive chefs to restaurant owners, and we’re proving that every day.

VISIT DALLAS: What are your thoughts on the evolving landscape of women in the culinary arts, and how do you see your role in this transformation?

CHEF NIKKY: The culinary industry is evolving, and we’re seeing more women step into leadership roles, own their own restaurants, and drive innovation. I see my role as someone who not only creates space for myself but also opens doors for other women. Through mentorship, speaking engagements, and leading by example, I want to inspire and empower more women to chase their culinary dreams with confidence.

VISIT DALLAS: Can you describe a time you faced gender-based challenges and how you overcame them?

CHEF NIKKY: When I first started out, getting a loan for my restaurant was nearly impossible. No bank wanted to take a chance on a young woman with no collateral. On top of that, many landlords wouldn’t even take a meeting with me. But I didn’t give up—I found a mentor who believed in me and helped me navigate the industry. That experience taught me to be relentless, resourceful, and to never take “no” as the final answer.

VISIT DALLAS: How do you hope your career path will inspire other women looking to break into the culinary space?

CHEF NIKKY: I hope my journey shows other women that there’s no single path to success. You don’t have to fit into someone else’s mold—you can create your own. I want women to see that they can be a chef, a business owner, an author, a content creator, and more. The possibilities are endless if you believe in yourself and keep pushing forward.

VISIT DALLAS: In your opinion, what changes need to happen to break down stigma for women in various industries?

CHEF NIKKY: Representation matters. We need to see more women in leadership positions, making decisions, and shaping the future of their industries. That means equal access to funding, mentorship, and opportunities. It also means shifting outdated mindsets—women don’t need to prove they belong; we already do. We just need the space to thrive.

VISIT DALLAS: What advice would you give to aspiring chefs, particularly women, who are eager to break into the culinary field?

CHEF NIKKY: Be fearless, be curious, and never stop learning. Surround yourself with people who lift you up, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Find mentors who can guide you, and when you succeed, turn around and help the next generation. Most importantly, believe in your vision and don’t let anyone tell you it’s impossible.

VISIT DALLAS: How has being based in Dallas influenced your career or the opportunities available to you?

CHEF NIKKY: Dallas has been an incredible place to build my career. The city is full of energy, diversity, and people who are open to new flavors and experiences. As a Thai-Texan chef, I’ve been able to merge my Bangkok roots with my Texas upbringing in a way that resonates with this community. Dallas has also been a place where I’ve found mentors, supporters, and fellow entrepreneurs who uplift each other. The city's food scene is constantly evolving, and that has given me the opportunity to share my unique approach to Thai cuisine.

VISIT DALLAS: How did you infuse Dallas's culture into your Thai cuisine?

CHEF NIKKY: Being a Thai-Texan chef means blending the bold flavors and big hospitality of Texas with the balance and depth of Thai cuisine. Dallas is all about hearty, comforting meals and a welcoming dining experience, which aligns perfectly with the way Thai food is meant to be enjoyed—family-style, with warmth and generosity. I take inspiration from both cultures, whether it’s adding a Texas twist to a Thai classic or making sure every dish tells a story of where I come from.

VISIT DALLAS: Can you share how Dallas supports the advancement and empowerment of women?

CHEF NIKKY: Dallas has a strong network of women leaders who support and uplift each other. Organizations like Les Dames d'Escoffier and the Texas Restaurant Association provide mentorship, resources, and opportunities for women in the culinary industry and beyond. I’ve personally felt the impact of this support through collaborations, leadership roles, and being part of a community that values diversity and inclusion. As a Thai-Texan chef and entrepreneur, I’ve seen firsthand how Dallas embraces and celebrates different backgrounds and perspectives, making it a great place for women to succeed.

VISIT DALLAS: When you’re not cooking, where in Dallas do you find inspiration and relaxation?

CHEF NIKKY: Traveling and experiencing different restaurants and cuisines is one of my biggest sources of inspiration—it fuels my creativity and helps me bring new ideas to my own dishes. In Dallas, I love exploring the city’s diverse food scene, visiting local markets, and connecting with fellow chefs and entrepreneurs. When I need to recharge, I turn to meditation, yoga, and leadership retreats, which help me stay grounded and focused. I find inspiration in the blend of cultures here, whether through food, art, or music. And giving back to the community is another way I recharge—whether through charity events or mentorship—because seeing others thrive is just as fulfilling as creating a great dish!

VISIT DALLAS: Dallas is known for its culinary diversity. Which local spots do you recommend for someone seeking to explore the authentic flavors of the city?

CHEF NIKKY: Dallas is a food lover’s dream! I always recommend exploring the different cultural pockets of the city. A few must-visit spots include:

The Thai Temple (Buddhist Center of Dallas) – On weekends, you’ll find some of the most authentic Thai street food in the city, made by Thai vendors who bring the flavors of Bangkok to Dallas.

And of course, I’d invite them to Asian Mint for a fresh take on Thai cuisine, where they can experience the perfect balance of Thai flavors with a modern, welcoming Dallas vibe!

VISIT DALLAS: How do you see Dallas as a city that nurtures creativity and ambition, and what local events or experiences would you suggest to someone wanting to tap into that energy?

CHEF NIKKY: Dallas is a city that thrives on connection and community. If you have a passion, there’s a group of people here who share it and want to support you. Finding your people—your community—is key to nurturing creativity and ambition.

For anyone looking to tap into that energy, I’d recommend:

Joining Les Dames d’Escoffier or attending their events – This incredible organization of women in food, beverage, and hospitality is all about mentorship, empowerment, and lifting each other up. Whether you’re an aspiring chef, food entrepreneur, or just passionate about the industry, it’s an amazing group to be part of.

Taking a cooking class – Food brings people together! Whether it's one of my own cooking experiences or a class at places like The Dallas Arboretum, it's a great way to connect with others while learning something new.

Exploring pop-ups and collaborative dining events – Dallas has a vibrant pop-up scene where chefs, artists, and creatives come together to showcase their talents. Events like these are perfect for networking and finding inspiration.