Ilan Hall

Ramen Hood

Ilan Hall’s passion for cooking, ignited at the tender age of five by a transformative encounter with fried calamari, has guided his remarkable journey. Hall’s pursuit of gastronomic excellence led him from the rolling hills of Tuscany, where he honed his craft, to the esteemed halls of the Culinary Institute of America.

As a chef, he’s not just about the...

As a chef, he’s not just about the food; he’s a storyteller and innovator. His television appearances as winner of “Top Chef, host and executive producer of shows like “Knife Fight” and “Food to Get You Laid” showcase his charismatic engagement with the culinary world. Hall’s legacy is deeply intertwined with his groundbreaking restaurants – The Gorbals in downtown LA and Brooklyn, Esh, and Ramen Hood at LA’s Grand Central Market – each a beacon of culinary creativity and communal dining.

Beyond the bustling kitchens and camera lights, Hall’s life is enriched by the warmth of his family. He shares his world with his partner, Ayame Kawaguchi, and their son Theo, weaving the threads of love, family, and food into a beautiful tapestry that illustrates his journey not just as a chef, but as a father and partner. In Hall’s story, every dish, every moment is a testament to a life lived in relentless pursuit of deliciousness.