Mei Lin is a Chinese‑born, American chef who won Top Chef (2014) and Tournament of Champions (2023). She launched LA's acclaimed Nightshade (a 2020 James Beard Best New Restaurant finalist) and Daybird, pioneering fast-casual Sichuan hot chicken. A semifinalist for James Beard Best Chef: California (2020), Mei has also served high-profile clients like Oprah and judges on Chopped and Iron Chef: Quest for an Iron Legend.