Michael Natkin is a Seattle-based chef, cookbook author, and former software engineer, known for his innovative and globally inspired approach to vegetarian cuisine.

He is the creator of the influential blog Herbivoracious, which showcases bold, vibrant, and original plant-based recipes. His cookbook, Herbivoracious: A Flavor Revolution with 150 Vibrant and Original Vegetarian Recipes (2012), was met with critical acclaim and earned a James Beard Award nomination, helping to elevate the appeal of modern vegetarian cooking.

Before turning his focus to food, Natkin spent over two decades in the software and visual effects industries. He worked at Adobe Systems, where he contributed to the development of Adobe After Effects, a groundbreaking motion graphics and compositing software.

This work earned him an Academy Award for Scientific and Technical Achievement in 2018, shared with Daniel Wilk, James Acquavella, and David Cotter. The award recognized their pioneering efforts in software that transformed post-production in film and video.

Natkin’s career also included time at Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), where he was part of the teams behind iconic films such as Jurassic Park, Forrest Gump, and Death Becomes Her. His blend of creative and technical expertise helped shape the visual effects industry during a pivotal era in cinematic history.

Driven by a passion for cooking, Natkin made a bold career pivot. He trained in restaurant kitchens including Café Flora in Seattle, as well as staging at acclaimed establishments like Canlis and Dirt Candy in New York City.