Brian Riggenbach

Brian was born in Illinois, raised in Naples, Florida and has traveled the world entrenching himself in global cuisines and fine arts. He moved to Nashville from Chicago in 2016 to open The Mockingbird. Food has always been a central tenet in Brian’s life, from the earliest days of curiosity in picking fresh strawberries to more complex incarnations later on. Beginning at a local restaurant in Florida washing dishes, Brian moved up the ranks gradually until serving at some of Chicago’s best restaurants.

Brian had the chance to showcase his skills on Season 24 of the Food Network’s award-winning show “Chopped.” He not only walked away the victor, he also reconnected with long-time friend Maneet Chauhan and the concept for The Mockingbird was born. He’s since been on Food Network’s “Bite Club” where he came out the champ, as well as “Beat Bobby Flay” where he battled viciously, and was also featured on HGTV’s “House Hunters” while him and Mikey searched for their Nashville home!