Passion for Culinary Creation: Quick Q&A with Executive Chef Mario Nichols | Nellie's Southern Kitchen

Where authentic Southern flavors come alive - Samantha's meeting with Executive Chef Mario Nichols of Nellie's Southern Kitchen in Las Vegas. Be sure to visit Super Bowl Sunday so he can redefine your culinary expectations!

Also, the new recipe book is expected to come very soon...we're excited!

"I have a few dishes in the works"

Ok, now Samantha's Q&A:

Who taught you how to cook?

I learned from watching my mother and grandmother growing up.

How long did it take to first assemble your "Southern Nachos"?

Not long at all! It was one of those things I took something I love and made it "Southern".

"always creating new items since I was a teenager."

Do you have any plans on launching a new dish soon?

I have a few dishes in the works as I’m always creating new items.

How long did it take you to get to the point you’re at?

I have been working towards this goal since I was a teenager.

a singer and a SNEAKERHEAD!

Do you have any hobbies outside of being in the kitchen?

I love to sing and am a SNEAKERHEAD!

What has been your most memorable compliment on your food?

I had an older lady compliment my pintos saying they reminded her of her childhood.

"I have an amazing team of people helping me in the kitchen"

Do you have a team of people helping you in the kitchen?

I have an amazing team of people helping me in the kitchen from sous chefs to dishwashers - they are all an incredible help.

"you are always a reflection of the business and brand"

What has been your favorite piece of advice anyone has given you towards your shining career?

I have two times. One was my mentor Chris Earle which was no matter what you are always a reflection of the business and brand. The second was from Cheryl Littlejohn never forget the mission…..ALL IN!

What would you be doing if you weren’t in the kitchen (careerwise)?

Honestly I don’t know - I would say music, but at the same time food and creation have always been my passion and go-to since a kid.

"to be better you have to take the good with the bad"

Since it exists everywhere, how do you handle any negative feedback?

I never expect to be perfect and expect everyone to love my creation. I feel like in order to be better you have to take the good with the bad, so even in the negativity, at times, there is truth.

-Edited by me, Dennis: Contact

Be sure to watch the video of Mario below!

Where you can find Executive Chef Mario:

Nellie's Southern Kitchen Las Vegas Reservations: nelliessouthernkitchen.com

IG: @marioso2