Co-Founder & Chef, Aftergold

Nate is a Korean-American chef, and rising star of the culinary world. After over a decade of experience in NYC, he’s developed his own philosophy, expanding his strong roots in the Northeast with global influence. He balances forward thinking technique with delicate, heartwarming cooking.

Nate has filled his career with prestigious restaurants and personal accolades to form a strong leadership and operational background. While working for chefs like JP Park, Emma Bengsston, JJ Johnson, and Daniel Boulud, he’s been fortunate enough to run and launch some of the most exciting restaurants in NYC.

In 2016, he was named a US finalist in the esteemed San Pellegrino Young Chef competition. At the helm of Naro he was nominated as a one of StarChef’s Rising Stars of 2023 and Inside Hook’s “20 Chefs to look out for in 2024”. Most recently, he earned 3 stars from the New York Times and Naro ranked as #84 in North America by the OAD list under his leadership. Born in Seoul and raised in Connecticut, Nate holds a degree from the Culinary Institute of America.

Currently, he is working to open his dream restaurant, Aftergold—“charming fine-dining”—in collaboration with Master Sommelier, Jonathan Eichholz. The two plan to open in early 2026 and are still actively fundraising. At Aftergold, Nate and Jonathan look forward to expressing their art through honest cuisine and genuine hospitality. If you are interested in partnership please contact at nate@aftergoldnyc.com