Meredith Hayden

Meredith Hayden is an American chef, digital content creator, and cookbook author who gained widespread online popularity under her brand Wishbone Kitchen. Born on January 17, 1996, in Wyckoff, New Jersey, Hayden became a prominent figure in the FoodTok sphere by sharing authentic, aspirational, and entertaining videos documenting her life as a private chef in the Hamptons and New York City. Through her engaging personality, approachable luxury aesthetic, and practical recipes, she has built a multi-platform digital empire with millions of followers.

Early Life and Culinary Training

Hayden grew up in New Jersey and spent her childhood summers on Nantucket, which fostered an early appreciation for coastal entertaining and fresh ingredients. She attended Clemson University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing. Following college, she relocated to New York City and worked in advertising sales at Vogue magazine. While maintaining her corporate marketing career during the day, she pursued her passion for food by attending the evening Culinary Arts program at the Institute of Culinary Education (ICE). After completing an externship at the New York restaurant Charlie Bird and graduating from culinary school in 2019, she began transitioning into private catering and personal chef work.

Rise to Fame and Wishbone Kitchen

In 2020, Hayden landed her first major job as a private chef for fashion designer Joseph Altuzarra in the Hamptons. She launched content under the handle Wishbone Kitchen, filming day in the life vlogs that detailed grocery trips to local farm stands, prep work, and multi-course dinner preparation for high-profile clients. Her relatable yet elevated culinary style went viral on TikTok and Instagram in 2022, quickly earning her millions of dedicated viewers. Her video content ranges from complex dinner party menus to comforting everyday meals.

Cookbooks and Media Endeavors

Building on her viral success, Hayden authored The Wishbone Kitchen Cookbook: Seasonal Recipes for Everyday Luxury and Elevated Entertaining, published by Ten Speed Press, which became a New York Times bestseller. Prior to her major publisher deal, she had self-published limited-run cookbooks including Wishbone Vol. 1 and Wishbone Vol. 2. She hosts the YouTube series Dinner with Friends, writes a popular Substack newsletter, and makes regular television appearances to showcase her signature dishes and entertaining tips.