Secret Media Network has officially launched the SMN100 ranking of the 100 most impactful people around the country, changing the way we operate in our free time.
That being said, it is a pleasure to announce that one of the stars of the D.C. food scene has been announced as a member of the list as one of those recognized in the Food & Drink category!
What is the SMN100 list, and why is it a big deal?
The Secret Media 100 leverages the hyperlocal presence in cities across the country including NYC, LA, Chicago, and more to identify the 100 most impactful entrepreneurs, creators, and innovators from around the country.
The SMN100, unlike a majority of national rankings you may be familiar with, has a focus on hyperlocal influence across the country, which means that local artists reinventing small neighborhoods in urban Detroit stand to have the same chance of recognition as celebrity content creators or all-star athletes!
How the SMN100 is formatted
Each of the top 100 entrepreneurs, creators, and innovators featured on the SMN100 fits into one of four unique categories:
- Arts & Culture – Those recognized in this category have been able to impact the perspective of others through their works of art, humanitarian efforts, or even inspiring words.
- Experiential & Sport – Whether it be an all-star athlete, an up-and-coming producer, or even the architects or engineers behind some of the nation’s newest experiences, this category is meant for anyone we consider to be ‘changing the game‘.
- Food & Drink – Specific to the tastemakers out there, from the kitchens of Michelin-Star restaurants to the home of TikTok chefs whose recipes garnered millions of views, this category is meant for those who inspired others to create with imagination and flair.
- Pioneers – A category for those who break barriers and challenge the status quo, these trailblazers go above and beyond to lead from the front so that others can follow in their wake.
Chef Kevin Tien of Moon Rabbit earns a spot on the first-ever SMN100
For those unfortunate souls unfamiliar with his work, Kevin Tien is the executive chef and owner of Moon Rabbit in D.C. and co-founder of Chefs Stopping AAPI Hate.
Since reopening his restaurant in May of 2024, Tien’s unique and modern take on Vietnamese cuisine has caught the attention of national media, resulting in several incredible accolades in just its first year of business, including:
- Multiple James Beard Award nominations (including Chef Kevin Tien’s fifth personal nomination).
- Added to the 2024 Michelin Guide for Washington, D.C.’s food scene.
- Ranked among the 50 best restaurants in the nation in 2024 by the New York Times.
Though, while Chef Tien’s culinary chops alone are commendable and his ability to bring an often-overlooked cuisine to the forefront of the modern culinary world is undeniable, his philanthropic efforts to support the AAPI community across the country set him apart and cemented his spot on the SMN100!