Meet the Chefs!

Li Xiu Ying - Head Chef

Li was born and raised in Chengdu, which is the capital of the Sichuan Province in China. The area is popularly known for their spicy culinary works, and Li was educated in this Chinese culinary style by family and community members. She travelled around the country, studying under different cooking masters to expand her knowledge. Li gained invaluable knowledge and experience studying under these masters and they pushed her to attend an official culinary school. In 1986, she received her culinary degree, and immigrated to England. There, she studied English and continued working in the field of Chinese cuisine and working up the ranks until she became Soux chef in 1991. After a few years, she immigrated to America and became a part of TOWN’s family. Arriving in America almost 25 years ago, she met her now husband Jonathan, a photographer, and they have raised 4 children together. Since then, for roughly 24 years, Li has been creating both historical dishes and innovate new cuisine, all while staying true to the authentic Chinese style. She is known for her impeccable dishes, culinary expertise, and loyalty to authenticity.

Joseph Acharya - Sous Chef

Joseph has worked as TOWN's resident Soux Chef for the past 11 years. Originally raised in India, Joseph originally pursued engineering as a career, but was inspired by the country’s unique and masterful dishes, and took up cooking as a hobby. Eventually, he fell in love with the practice and moved to learn more. He spent 8 years learning the trade, either taking classes at an institution, or watching under cooking masters. Eventually, he toured around Asia to expand his cultural horizons. After living in France, and then Taiwan, for a few years, he moved to China to learn the common practices there. He practiced in China, working in several different restaurants, and attained a good grasp on the styles of cooking from the different areas he visited. Afterwards, he moved to America and continued his education until he gained his culinary degree in 2006. In 2008, he joined us as well at TOWN, and has worked his way to Soux Chef to Li Xui Ying. He is known for his wonderful food, being exceptionally friendly and his knowledge on various cooking styles.