Bringing Bold Asian Flavors

Jet Tila is a James Beard Award and Emmy-nominated chef, restaurateur, author, and Food Network star known for his mastery of Thai and Chinese flavors and his elevated takes on classic Asian dishes.​

Born and raised in Los Angeles, Jet grew up in a Thai-Chinese family whose story is deeply connected to the growth of Thai food in America. His family opened Bangkok Market in 1972, described by Food Network as the first Thai food market in the United States, and later opened Royal Thai Cuisine in West Los Angeles. Jet learned early by cooking with his Cantonese grandmother, working in the family market, and gaining experience in the family restaurant.​

He later paired that generational knowledge with formal culinary training, developing a style that makes authentic Asian cooking approachable without losing its history or soul. That combination of tradition, technique, and storytelling has made him a widely recognized culinary personality and educator.​

Jet has appeared on Food Network as a judge, competitor, and host on programs including Ready Jet Cook, Halloween Cookie Challenge, Tournament of Champions, Beat Bobby Flay, Guy’s Grocery Games, Cutthroat Kitchen, and Wildcard Kitchen. Through his television work, restaurants, cookbooks, and live appearances, he continues to share the flavors, techniques, and stories behind Thai and Chinese cuisine with audiences across the country. At Cleaver and Cork 2027, Jet will bring his energy, culinary expertise, and signature approach to Asian flavors to Tallahassee for a weekend of unforgettable food and connection.​