Conversations with Kevin Nguyen

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kevin Nguyen.

Hi Kevin, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I love eating my way around the world. It’s a delicious way to explore new cities and cultures. Every dish has a story and I want to hear them all. I noticed a lot of places were charging for food tours while I was doing research and eating at my own pace. I wanted to share my “free” and leisurely experiences with everyone else. I knew I wasn’t the only person who loved to eat and travel, and I wanted to help them with ideas.

As a result, I started my blog and Instagram two years ago. The account started very focused on food, but I’ve also started sharing more about my personal life. We’re all going through some of the hardest times in our lives. I was tired of having to sound perfect and portray the perfect life, so I started getting vulnerable. I’m very open about my lows, but I’m also happy to celebrate my highs.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It hasn’t always been the smoothest ride. You see this influencer life glorified, but that’s not always the case. When I first started I was so overwhelmed with having to find content to post on a regular schedule.

It was quickly beginning to interfere with life and wasn’t fun anymore. I was stressed over this Instagram, and I didn’t even have 1000 followers. I decided to take a break and reevaluate everything. About a year ago, I decided to restart my account with the caveat that I wasn’t allowed to stress over it too much and it was meant to be fun.

I’ve been having a blast with it and my heart warms anytime anyone DMs me for Denver suggestions or tells me they booked a trip because they saw me eat somewhere tasty. I’ve made so many great friends through the experience.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I started this account for food tours all over the world, but have pivoted to highlight Denver local restaurants. This was really important for me during the pandemic in order to help support local businesses.

I’m most proud of bringing visibility to amazing restaurants. Some restaurants are famous and get talked about all the time, but I love highlighting spots that people tend to look over.

I’m hoping as the world opens up I can do more food tours, but I’m also excited to focus on Denver neighborhood highlights.

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Reach out to others on Instagram. Everyone is super friendly and willing to help. If they’re a foodie like me, then chances are they’ll be happy to meet and eat. What works for me is being true to myself, doing this for fun, and making sure there’s a focus on supporting local restaurants.

Contact Info:

• Email: diyfoodtour@gmail.com
• Website: thediyfoodtour.com
• Instagram: diyfoodtour