The team at Proxi announced the appointment of Jennifer Kim as the new Chef De Cuisine to helm the kitchen alongside Executive Chef Andrew Zimmerman. Within their new role, Kim will develop new menu items and help oversee and manage kitchen staff. Kim will also serve as a key leader on the team and assist with training and further developing the skills of team members.

“We’re thrilled that Jennifer has joined the Proxi team,“ says Executive Chef Andrew Zimmerman adding, “They are one of Chicago’s most celebrated chefs who brings over a decade of culinary leadership with them, and we know they will bring fresh perspectives and exciting innovations to our teams.”

A second-generation Korean American, Kim was born and raised in Chicago. After leaving the University of Illinois, Kim decided to enroll in culinary school at Kendall College During their studies, they simultaneously started working under David Posey at Blackbird, whom they note had a large influence during the start of their career. They then traveled to the south of France to spend a summer at the one-Michelin-starred Le Bistro des Saveurs before returning to Chicago to work at Avec, while also helping open One Off Hospitality’s Nico Osteria.

In 2015, Jennifer opened their first solo venture–Snaggletooth–to much acclaim, earning a Jean Banchet Rising Chef of the Year award during the tail end of its two-year run. With renewed confidence and an itch for a “real deal” restaurant, they opened Passerotto in 2018, garnering two consecutive Michelin Bib Gourmands, another Jean Banchet, an Eater Chicago Chef of the Year, and a 2019 James Beard nomination.

 In their off time, Kim enjoys reading speculative fiction, traveling, drinking natty wines, and spending lots of time with their two dogs, Buster and Flapjack. Jennifer is excited to bring their extensive knowledge and passion to Proxi and begin rolling out their ideas.