Chefs Rachel Yang and Seif Chirichi fell in love while working in a New York City kitchen run by French chef Alain Ducasse. One decade, a cross-country move, two children, and four restaurants later, they’re still in the kitchen—and still in love. Chirchi has been known to refer to both their sons and their restaurants as “our babies.”

Since 2007, the husband-and-wife team has built successful restaurants based on a wildly creative vision that combines their shared love of bold, unexpected Asian flavors with classic, rigorous technique. Their food is beloved by seasoned, adventurous diners and often considered a revelation by newcomers eager to expand their palates. The couple’s work is consistently acclaimed and recognized, including three James Beard Award nominations for Best Chef Northwest in 2013, 2014, and 2015.

Through their company, Relay Restaurant Group, Rachel and Seif own and operate three restaurants in Seattle—Joule, Revel, and Trove—as well as Portland’s Revelry. Just like their food, the restaurant spaces balance formality and tradition with energy and creativity.

Both Rachel and Seif remain working chefs who, any given night, can be found cooking on the line in one of their signature open kitchens. Their two young sons, Rye and Pike, can often be found in the family’s restaurants as well.

Celebrity Chef, Food & Beverage, Chef