In this episode of Hospitality Bites, host Colleen Silk welcomes Chef Nick Barrington, Executive Chef at East Lake Golf Club and President of the U.S. Culinary Open. With over two decades of experience, Chef Nick shares his inspiring journey—from cooking for presidents to mentoring the next generation of chefs.

He opens up about creating the U.S. Culinary Open as a celebration of the craft, community, and camaraderie that make this industry thrive. Together, they discuss the power of mentorship, philanthropy, and fostering a kitchen culture rooted in respect, passion, and purpose.

What We Talked About

• Chef Nick’s journey from humble beginnings to leading culinary excellence.
• How mentorship transforms careers—and lives—in the kitchen.
• The creation and mission of the U.S. Culinary Open.
• Building a positive kitchen culture that values people over pressure.
• Why giving back to the community and investing in culinary education matters.
• Balancing excellence, family, and fulfillment in the hospitality world.

Takeaways

• Mentorship fuels the future of culinary arts.
• Positive culture builds lasting teams.
• Philanthropy strengthens the industry.
• Education shapes tomorrow’s chefs.
• Success is about happiness, not headlines.

Chapters

00:00 – Introduction to Chef Nick Barrington

02:17 – The Journey into Culinary Arts

05:32 – Mentorship and Giving Back

08:30 – The U.S. Culinary Open

12:33 – The Importance of Kitchen Culture

17:12 – Leadership in the Kitchen

23:43 – Building a Caring Kitchen Environment

31:42 – Culinary Education & Youth Engagement

37:33 – Philanthropy and Giving Back

43:41 – The Future of Culinary Competitions

Keywords: Culinary Arts, Chef Nick Barrington, U.S. Culinary Open, Mentorship, Kitchen Culture, Philanthropy, Culinary Education, Hospitality Industry, Chef Competitions, Culinary Community

About Hospitality Bites:

Hosted by Colleen Silk, Hospitality Bites is an honest and restorative space for voices within the hospitality industry. More than just a podcast, it serves as a storytelling platform for changemakers, risk-takers, and hospitality professionals who are approaching their work in innovative ways. Each episode features guests ranging from chefs to advocates and media personalities, focusing on mental and physical health, personal experiences, and the realities of thriving in the hospitality industry and beyond.

New episodes of Hospitality Bites drop every Monday, now proudly under the Walk-In Talk Media umbrella.

Watch the full episode on YouTube the following week.

Want to get involved or learn more? Visit HospitalityBites.com