“The nutrition field is at a stage where we need to find innovative ways to reach the general public and guide them towards healthy eating habits.”
Jason Lau, Zipongo’s Director of Nutrition & Wellness and resident registered dietitian, has been practicing dietetics for the past several years. Before Zipongo, he was with SPE Certified, a national nutrition consulting firm where he certified Michelin-starred restaurants and other food service facilities based on the nutrition quality and taste of the meals served using a specialized algorithm.
1. Tell us why you joined Zipongo. Before coming to Zipongo, I did a lot of research on nutrition in the tech space because I firmly believe that to be relevant in this industry, we’ve got to introduce and integrate technology solutions. The nutrition field is at a stage where we need to find innovative ways to reach the general public and guide them towards healthy eating habits. As a registered dietitian trained in both clinical and culinary settings, I’m always looking for a new way to challenge myself and help move the industry forward. That’s why I decided to join Zipongo.
2. What are you most proud of (personal or career-wise)? I’m very proud to have been trained in a Michelin-starred kitchen when I worked in New York City. Having culinary training has definitely brought me closer to food as well as helped me understand how individuals perceive food. On another note, I’m also very proud of my dinner parties where I serve up awesome party favorites for my friends. (Stay tuned for some recipes.)
3. What’s your favorite food spot in the city? If you’re a foodie like me, it’s a pretty tough task to pin down one favorite food spot, especially in San Francisco where we’ve got so many great restaurants. Depending on the time of day or my mood, I have different go-to spots in the city. If I’m feeling like I want a classic San Francisco meal, I’ll go to Zuni Café for some amazing oysters and roast chicken. For an always-fabulous brunch or a late-night indulgence, I’ll go to NOPA. For some awesomely fresh pasta, it’s SPQR on Fillmore Street, and lastly for a quick and delicious lunch, Golden Star Vietnamese Restaurant is one of my go-tos.
4. Can you share something that ranks high on your bucket list? I’d say going on a hot air balloon ride in Turkey definitely ranks high on my bucket list, followed by co-hosting a dinner party with Martha Stewart or Oprah.
Want to work with Jason and the folks at Zipongo? Check out our current job openings. And check out Jason’s contributions to the Zipongo blog.
