Portrait of Qui Tran
i. Biography
"Our family was not just immigrants; we were refugees."
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The Climb
Early in their career, Qui worked as translator, dishwasher at Mai Lee in St. Louis, Missouri. Today, Qui is owner of Mai Lee.
Today
If I want a burger, I want a good old American burger. Some trends are fine, but that one – I’m not interested."
Signature
Qui Tran is a chef whose craft focuses on Vietnamese food.
In Their Words “If I want ramen, I want ramen. If I want a burger, I want a good old American burger. Some trends are fine, but that one – I’m not interested.” “Our family was not just immigrants; we were refugees.”
Recognition
His public identity rests on a clear arc: born in Vietnam, chef and owner of Mai Lee in St. Louis.
FAQ
Asked of Qui
What is Qui Tran's current role?
As of 2026, Qui Tran is Chef.
Where did Qui Tran work before?
Qui Tran's earlier career included Mai Lee.
The Sunday email
Read about chefs like Qui Tran in the Sunday email.
Every Sunday we send a lead story and up to four more about the chefs, winemakers, sommeliers and hoteliers behind the restaurants, bars, wineries and hotels we cover.
Recent stories
Free. One email a week, and you can unsubscribe from any issue.