Chef David Chang wins first-ever Character Approved Awards

USA Network has announced the winners of the first-ever Character Approved Awards to honor individuals from a cross-section of creative disciplines who are positively influencing American culture. This years winner for Food is none other then Korean-American chef and restaurateur David Chang. Since opening his first restaurant, Momofuku Noodle Bar, in New York Citys East Village in 2004, Changs establishments have skyrocketed to the top of the citys Best Restaurants lists, and earned him a James Beard Award for Best Chef in New York City, with his refreshingly Americanized take on Asian cuisine.

The Character Approved Awards honor the characters of the U.S.A. who are changing the face of American culture. Character Approved honorees are innovators in their field who influence our opinions, our style, and our view of the world. They surprise and inspire us with fresh ideas. They are celebrated by their peers. And they have an authentic style that's all their own.

Awards:
* 2006 James Beard Rising Star Chef of the Year Nomination
* Food & Wine 2006 Best New Chef
* 2007 James Beard Rising Star Chef of the Year
* James Beard Best Chef: New York City (Five Boroughs)
* Bon Appetit's 2007 Chef of the Year
* GQ's 2007 Chef of the Year
* 2007 James Beard Best New Restaurant Nomination
* 2008 James Beard Best Chef New York City for Momofuku Ssäm Bar
* 2008 - Two Michelin Stars for Momofuku Ko
* 2009 USA CHARACTER APPROVED

Interview with Charlie Rose (56:01)

Restaurants
* Momofuku Noodle Bar
* Momofuku Ssäm Bar
* Momofuku Ko
* Momofuku Bakery and Milk Bar