Maryam Ishtiaq creates content around marriage, parenthood and cooking. Photo: Courtesy of Fox
A Pakistani American chef from North Texas is getting ready for her TV debut on a reality show with Gordon Ramsay.
Driving the news: Season four of "Next Level Chef" premieres Thursday on Fox.
The intrigue: Maryam Ishtiaq tells Axios she moved to Dallas in 2019 for a leadership role at a tech startup. She is now a content creator and private chef who also sells her own halal broth.
Ishtiaq tells Axios she feels proud to represent the Pakistani and Muslim communities on "Next Level Chef."
"It's amazing that we are finally seeing more of South Asian culture and food on the front and center in the culinary space," Ishtiaq tells Axios.
How it works: "Next Level Chef" contestants are divided into three teams and across three kitchens with varying levels of tools and ingredients. Ramsay is one of three mentors who guide the teams.
"From the moment I stepped in that kitchen on the show, the trajectory of my life changed completely," Ishtiaq says.
What's next: Sheesh, an upscale hookah lounge in The Colony, is hosting a watch party on Feb. 20 to cheer on Ishtiaq.
On March 8, Ishtiaq and three other chefs from the show will host a seven-course dinner in Dallas.
